There’s something magical about a side dish that brings comfort, crunch, and a touch of sweetness all in one bite. These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are everything cozy fall dinners dream of—crispy edges, tender centers, smoky turkey bacon, and a glossy maple glaze that ties it all together. It’s a 30-minute wonder that feels indulgent yet wholesome. No oven required, just a quick stovetop sauté that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This is one to pin and make again and again!

Why You’ll Love It

Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or quick holiday prep.
Sweet and savory perfection with maple syrup, turkey bacon, and toasted pecans.
No oven needed—just one skillet and a few simple steps.
Make-ahead friendly—prep the Brussels sprouts a day before serving.
Gluten-free and family-approved for any table.
Beautifully caramelized for that golden, glossy finish Pinterest loves.

Time Needed

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

1½ lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
4 strips turkey bacon, diced into ½” pieces
½ cup pecans, coarsely chopped
1 teaspoon ground mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blanch the Brussels Sprouts Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add kosher salt and Brussels sprouts. Cook for 4–5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain, rinse with cold water, and pat dry thoroughly.
Crisp the Turkey Bacon In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Sauté the Brussels Sprouts Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans to the rendered fat in the pan. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sprouts develop golden, crisp edges.
Add Seasoning & Glaze Sprinkle in the ground mustard, then pour in apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan. Stir and scrape any browned bits from the bottom. Add maple syrup and cook for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
Finish & Serve Return the turkey bacon to the pan and toss to coat everything in the maple glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy balance of sweet, salty, and nutty goodness.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Nut-Free Option: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or skip entirely.
Autumn Twist: Toss in dried cranberries before serving for a festive touch.
Honey Dijon: Replace maple syrup with honey and add a spoonful of Dijon mustard for extra tang.

Tips from Chef Emma

Always dry the Brussels sprouts after blanching to ensure crisp edges.
Use real maple syrup—it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed for even browning.
This side reheats beautifully—just warm in a skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition Info per Serving

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 175
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugars: 2g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 318mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
A: Yes! Blanch them up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just finish in the skillet when ready to serve.
Q: What can I use instead of pecans?
A: Walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds are great substitutes for added crunch.
Q: How can I make this vegetarian?
A: Omit the turkey bacon and add a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
Q: Are these Brussels sprouts gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, perfect for holiday guests.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the kind of side dish that steals the show. The sweet maple glaze, smoky turkey bacon, and toasty pecans create a symphony of flavors that feel both homey and elevated. Whether it’s a Thanksgiving table or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. Save this recipe to your Fall Recipes board so it’s ready for your next feast!