Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers are a yummy treat! With crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup wrapped around tender Brussels sprouts, each bite is a burst of flavor.
Who knew veggies could taste so good? I could munch on these skewers all day! They’re perfect for snacks or gatherings—just make sure to make enough to share…or not! 😉
I love how quick they are to make. Just thread the sprouts and bacon on skewers, bake, and enjoy! They’re always a hit at my get-togethers and super simple too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are a must for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, frozen ones can work, but may not have the same bite. Just thaw and pat dry before using.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for more texture. Turkey bacon can be a lighter substitute if you’re watching your fat intake, but it won’t crisp up the same way.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a wonderful sweetness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use honey or agave syrup, but adjust the amount since they’re sweeter than maple syrup.
Olive Oil: This keeps the skewers from sticking. If you prefer, avocado oil or melted butter are great substitutes for added flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Bacon Gets Crispy?
Crispy bacon is key for delicious skewers! Here are some tips to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to help absorb excess grease and promote crispiness.
- Ensure you cook at a high temperature—400°F is just right. It cooks the bacon while allowing the sprouts to caramelize without overcooking.
- Turn the skewers halfway through cooking. This promotes even crisping on all sides.
- If needed, broil for the last few minutes. Just watch carefully to avoid burning!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and rinsed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes to cook in the oven, totaling around 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick yet impressive appetizer or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Skewers:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking. This helps keep everything safe and delicious!
2. Blanch the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Brussels sprouts and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes. This step softens them just enough, so they become tender yet still firm when you bite into them. After blanching, drain the sprouts and set them aside to cool.
3. Wrap the Sprouts with Bacon:
Next, take your bacon slices and cut them in half. Then, wrap each Brussels sprout with a half slice of bacon. Don’t worry about perfection—just make sure they’re mostly covered! Now, thread 3-4 of these bacon-wrapped sprouts onto each skewer, alternating as you wish. This will make for a pretty presentation!
4. Mix the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup and olive oil. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This sweet glaze will add a delightful touch to your skewers!
5. Brush and Season:
Place your prepared skewers on a lined baking sheet (this helps with cleanup later!). Generously brush each skewer with the maple syrup and olive oil mixture. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A little pinch goes a long way!
6. Bake Them Up:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the skewers bake for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through so that the bacon crisps up evenly and the Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully.
7. Glaze and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the skewers from the oven. If you like, you can brush them with any leftover maple syrup glaze for an extra boost of flavor. Serve these warm, and enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of these tasty skewers!
These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers are sure to impress your friends and family with their delightful blend of flavors. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before wrapping them with bacon to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the skewers (without baking) up to a day in advance. Simply wrap the Brussels sprouts in bacon, assemble the skewers, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just brush with the maple glaze right before baking!
What Should I Serve With These Skewers?
These skewers are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even as an appetizer for a larger meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
