Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Candied Pecans and Crispy Bacon

Don’t be intimidated by Brussels Sprouts any longer. Prepare to discover your new favorite side dish: Pan Roasted Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts. This exquisite recipe transforms often-misunderstood Brussels sprouts into a truly irresistible culinary delight, combining savory, sweet, and crunchy textures in perfect harmony.

This post is proudly sponsored by Fisher Nuts, but all opinions expressed are genuinely our own.

Hold on! Don’t even think about navigating away from this page. If your past experiences with Brussels sprouts have been less than stellar, I implore you to reconsider. As someone who once held the title of “pickiest eater,” I understand the skepticism. Steamed or boiled Brussels sprouts often fall short, tasting bland and bitter. But these Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a game-changer. They are, without a doubt, the most flavorful and satisfying side dish you’ll ever encounter, guaranteed to convert even the most staunch sprout skeptics.

Unlocking the Irresistible Charm of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts have long suffered from a reputation for bitterness, often stemming from improper cooking methods. But when prepared correctly, these miniature cabbages reveal a surprisingly sweet, nutty flavor that can elevate any meal. Our recipe for Pan Roasted Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts harnesses the magic of roasting to bring out their best, eliminating bitterness and introducing a delightful caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich additions.

Our journey to culinary excellence often involves partnering with brands that share our commitment to quality and deliciousness. We’ve been collaborating with Fisher Nuts for nearly as long as this blog has been active. When we decided to dedicate ourselves more seriously to the blog, we became very selective about our brand partnerships, and Fisher Nuts was one of the first to join us. Their dedication to quality is evident: all their nuts are Non-GMO Project Verified and contain no preservatives. Moreover, Fisher Nuts offers over nine varieties recognized by the American Heart Association as heart-healthy, making them a smart and delicious choice for any recipe.

Each February, we make a conscious effort to shift focus from desserts to main meals or nutritious side dishes that highlight the goodness of vegetables and other wholesome ingredients. This annual tradition aims to inspire our readers to embrace small, impactful changes that contribute to long-term health, such as incorporating heart-healthy nuts into their daily diet. These Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a perfect example, showcasing how healthy can also be incredibly indulgent and satisfying.

Brussel Sprouts or Brussels Sprouts? Addressing the Great Debate

Before diving into the delicious details, let’s address a common linguistic conundrum: is it “Brussel Sprouts” or “Brussels Sprouts”? This is a bit of a pet peeve for many, including myself! When speaking, “Brussel” often rolls off the tongue more easily, yet when typing, “Brussels” feels more grammatically correct, perhaps because it’s named after the city of Brussels. After extensive research, it’s clear that both spellings are widely accepted. To ensure everyone feels acknowledged, I’ll be using both variations throughout this article. Rest assured, regardless of how you spell it, the taste remains undeniably fantastic!

Mastering the Art of Brussels Sprout Preparation

Proper preparation is the first step to unlocking the full flavor potential of these delightful greens. Knowing where to cut Brussels Sprouts is key to achieving optimal texture and caramelization. Begin by carefully trimming off the tough, woody stem end of each sprout. Then, slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. This exposes more surface area, which is crucial for even cooking and browning. As you halve them, any loose or browning outer leaves will naturally fall away; discard these. While not strictly necessary, we prefer to give the halved sprouts a quick rinse under cold water to ensure they are perfectly clean before cooking.

How to Cook Brussels Sprouts for Optimal Flavor and Texture

The secret to truly delicious Brussels sprouts lies not in a complex sauce or exotic seasoning, though a good seasoning certainly enhances the experience. The real magic happens in the cooking method itself. Forget boiling or steaming, which often leads to soggy, sulfurous results. The superior methods are roasting or sautéing. These techniques allow the natural sugars within the sprouts to caramelize, transforming their inherent bitterness into a sweet, nutty, and utterly delectable flavor profile, ideal for any meal, especially during the holidays.

When pan-roasting, ensure that each halved Brussels sprout lies flat on the surface of your pan. This direct contact with the hot pan is essential for achieving that coveted golden-brown sear and tender interior. If you’re preparing a one-pan or sheet pan dinner, apply the same principle: arrange the sprouts cut-side down on the metal baking sheet. This method ensures even cooking and maximizes the delicious caramelization that makes all the difference.

Are Brussels Sprouts Low Carb? Exploring Their Nutritional Benefits

For those mindful of their dietary intake, Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice. They contain a low to moderate amount of carbohydrates, making them a fantastic option for various eating plans, including low-carb diets. Beyond their carb content, Brussels sprouts boast a low glycemic load and are a powerhouse of essential nutrients. They are an exceptional source of vitamins A, C, and B, along with vital minerals like potassium. Incorporating these nutrient-dense vegetables into your diet is a simple yet effective way to boost your overall health and well-being.

It seems many of you share our enthusiasm for delicious side dishes. When polled on your preference between brownies and side dish recipes, the response was overwhelmingly in favor of sides! This tells me I’m not alone in the universal struggle of being invited to dinner, assigned to bring a side, and then spending hours stressing over what amazing creation to contribute. Desserts always feel easier, yet we consistently get tasked with the side dish. Are our friends subtly challenging our culinary skills? Fear not, because with this recipe, you’ll always have a winning answer.

The true genius of this recipe lies in the delightful interplay of flavors and textures that complement the perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. After achieving that tender, caramelized core, the key is to introduce a symphony of salty, sweet, and juicy elements. This combination simply works wonders with the earthy sprouts. We’ve chosen candied pecans for their delightful crunch and sugary coating, offering a contrast to the tender sprouts. Juicy craisins add a burst of sweet-tart flavor, providing a vibrant pop against the green. And of course, instead of simply seasoning the sprouts with salt and butter—though delicious in its own right—we elevated the dish with crispy bacon. Is there any real reason? Only that bacon makes almost everything better! Looking back, I can’t believe I detested bacon during my formative years. My poor mother must have endured countless culinary battles!

Pan Roasted Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts: The Ultimate Side

Are you ready to transform your perception of vegetables and impress everyone at your next gathering? These Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts are remarkably easy to prepare yet look sophisticated enough for any special occasion. We are confident you’ll absolutely adore them. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, be sure to explore our complementary dish for steak and Brussels sprouts, linked below. It makes for an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal!

Steak and Brussels Sprouts: A Perfect Pairing

Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe

This recipe for Candied Pecan Bacon Brussels Sprouts combines simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process to deliver an extraordinary side dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 2 Cups Brussels Sprouts, ends trimmed off and sliced in half
• 1 Tablespoon Johnny’s Garlic Spread, or other garlic seasoning
• Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon Butter, unsalted
• 3 Slices Bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1/3-1/2 Cup Craisins
• 1 Cup Candied Pecans (recipe below)

For the Candied Pecans:

• 3 Cups Fisher Nuts pecans
• 1 Egg White
• 2 teaspoons Water
• 1/2 Cup White Sugar
• 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
• 1 Pinch Nutmeg
• 1 Pinch Salt

Instructions

For the Candied Pecans:

1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until foamy. Stir the egg white mixture into the pecans in a large bowl, ensuring all pecans are coated.
3. Stir in the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the pecans are evenly coated. Spread the pecans out in a single layer over the prepared cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 25-27 minutes, then allow to cool completely on the counter all day. This allows them to crisp up beautifully.

For the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Heat a sauté pan over medium heat with a generous drizzle of olive oil and butter.
2. Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the pan and stir to coat them thoroughly in the oil and butter mixture.
3. Allow the Brussels sprouts to cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until they are tender-crisp and beautifully golden-brown on the cut side.
4. Add the Johnny’s Garlic Spread (or your chosen garlic seasoning, ensuring it’s not garlic salt) and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Remove the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and immediately toss with the craisins, chopped crispy bacon, and chopped candied pecans.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy this spectacular side dish!

Recipe Notes

To reheat any leftovers, simply place them on a lightly oiled baking sheet and warm in a 350-degree F (175-degree C) oven for 5 minutes or more, until heated through and crisp again. Alternatively, microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute for a quicker reheat.

Did you love this recipe? We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Your feedback means the world to us.