These fun maple bacon Brussels sprout skewers are the perfect mix of sweet and smoky! The crispy bacon paired with tender sprouts makes them irresistible. Perfect for any gathering!
Honestly, who could resist that heavenly smell of bacon cooking? I love serving these at parties—people just can’t get enough! Plus, they’re super easy to make. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for their crisp texture. If you can’t find them, broccoli florets can be a good substitute, though the flavor will differ.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor. You could also try turkey bacon or even prosciutto for a different twist, but it may not be as crispy.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a fantastic flavor. If you’re looking for something less sweet, consider using a low-calorie syrup or honey, but adjust the amount to taste.
Garlic Powder: While garlic powder enhances the flavor, fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste. Just a little bit goes a long way!
How Do I Get Bacon to Cook Perfectly on Skewers?
Cooking bacon on skewers can be a bit tricky! You want it nice and crispy without overcooking the Brussels sprouts. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly—this helps bacon crisp up quickly.
- Soak wooden skewers to keep them from burning. If using metal, they can go directly in the oven.
- Wrap the bacon snugly around each Brussels sprout but not too tight; they need room to cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on your skewers while they roast. Turning them halfway helps everything cook evenly, so don’t skip that step!
- Broiling briefly at the end can really help to crisp up the bacon, but be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a quick appetizer or side dish. Don’t forget the optional broiling step for extra crispy bacon, which just adds a couple of minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 20 minutes before using to prevent them from burning in the oven.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Wash your Brussels sprouts and trim off any tough ends. If you have particularly large sprouts, cut them in half to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every sprout is well-coated for flavor!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout. Secure the wrapped sprout with a skewer. Aim to thread about 3 to 4 bacon-wrapped sprouts onto each skewer for easy handling.
5. Arrange for Roasting:
Lay the skewers flat on a foil-lined baking sheet. This makes cleanup easy and helps in roasting them evenly.
6. Add Maple Syrup:
Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts. The syrup will caramelize as they cook, adding a delicious sweetness!
7. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn the skewers halfway through for even cooking. You want the bacon to be crispy and the sprouts tender!
8. Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness:
If you’re craving an extra crunchy finish, broil the skewers for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
9. Let Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the skewers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy them warm as a delightful appetizer or a tasty side dish!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! You can substitute Brussels sprouts with broccoli florets, asparagus, or even small bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the vegetables used.
How Do I Know When the Skewers Are Done?
Your skewers are ready when the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. You can easily test this by piercing a sprout with a fork—it should go through easily when they are fully cooked!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the skewers in advance, wrap them with bacon, and refrigerate them. Just remember to cook them within 24 hours for the best flavor. They may need a couple of extra minutes in the oven if starting from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get the bacon crispy again. Enjoy!
