Irresistible Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Side Dish

Introduction

Hello everyone! I’m Jenny, and today, I’m thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite side dishes: Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin. This dish takes the humble Brussels sprout and elevates it to new heights, making it irresistible! As a mom who loves cooking with my son, I find that this recipe not only tastes amazing but also brings joy during our kitchen adventures.

Living in New Jersey, I take advantage of seasonal ingredients, and Brussels sprouts are a must-have in the fall and winter. With the addition of crispy bacon and a creamy sauce, this gratin becomes a decadent treat that can steal the spotlight at any meal, especially during holidays.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Timing

Before we jump into cooking, let’s talk timing. This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin can be prepared in about 45 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes

With this timing, you can whip up a fantastic side dish without spending all day in the kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these simple steps to create your own Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your gratin bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Next, grab a large skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. After cooking, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the halved Brussels sprouts and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender and slightly browned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, heavy cream, maple syrup, and half of the Gruyère cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Gratin

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and grated Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust!

Step 6: Bake

Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutritional content? Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 4g

This dish is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

Healthier Alternatives

While this gratin is delicious, I understand that some might want healthier alternatives. Here are a few options:

• Swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or almond milk.
• Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option.
• Try adding more vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for added nutrition.

These tweaks can help lighten the dish while still keeping it flavorful!

Serving Suggestions

This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled steak or pork chops
• Vegetarian lasagna for a hearty meat-free option

You can also serve it as part of a festive holiday spread. Trust me, it will be a hit!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making this gratin:

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts in the sautéing step can result in mushy texture.
• Not seasoning enough can lead to bland flavors.
• Skipping the cheese topping means missing out on that delicious crust!

Keep these in mind, and you’ll be on your way to a perfect gratin!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to store them:

• Let the gratin cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven for best results, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Leftovers can make a great lunch the next day, too!

Conclusion

Making this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin is not just about preparing food; it’s about creating lasting memories with family. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy this dish as much as my family does. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make it a new favorite at your table.

FAQs

Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve!

What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?

If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, you can use cauliflower or broccoli as a substitute. The cooking time may vary slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this gratin is gluten-free! Just make sure to check your cheese and bacon labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

With the holidays approaching, this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin is a perfect addition to your festive table. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and sure to impress your guests. Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey today! I can’t wait to hear how your gratin turns out. Happy cooking!

Print