Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon grease and heat over medium-high heat. Place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the Pecans and Cranberries: Stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pecans are toasted and the cranberries are slightly softened.
4. Finish with Balsamic and Honey: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and honey over the Brussels sprouts mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the Bacon: Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet and mix well. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts

• Get a Good Sear: Make sure the cut sides of the Brussels sprouts are in contact with the skillet to get a nice caramelization. This adds flavor and helps mellow the bitterness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To get crispy Brussels sprouts, avoid overcrowding the skillet. You may need to cook them in batches if the pan is too full.
• Adjust Sweetness and Acidity: For a sweeter dish, add a bit more honey; for more tang, increase the balsamic vinegar.

Variations to Try

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or blue cheese over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Switch the Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans for a different kind of crunch.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the Brussels sprouts. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Why This Dish is a Perfect Holiday Side

Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries bring a vibrant mix of colors and flavors to any holiday table. The dish is versatile enough to complement classic roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a prime rib roast. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors also makes it a crowd-pleaser, even for those who aren’t usually fans of Brussels sprouts.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of olive oil if needed.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Brussels sprouts or just starting to appreciate them, this recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries is sure to win you over. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and toasted pecans makes for a side dish that’s not only delicious but also festive. Try it at your next family dinner or holiday gathering, and watch it disappear!