Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Toasted Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
As the days grow shorter and a crispness fills the air, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, roasted dish that softly beckons you home. Roasted Brussels sprouts remind me of cozy dinners at my grandmother’s house, where joy would fill the room with laughter and the enticing aroma of good food. This delightful dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of turkey bacon, toasted pecans, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries. Perfect as a side for an easy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- A delicious and colorful addition to your holiday table.
- Provides a delightful balance of flavors with savory, sweet, and nutty notes.
- Family-friendly, even the little ones will ask for seconds!
- Healthy and satisfying, making it a wholesome choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Toasted Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful dish:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- ½ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). The warmth of the oven will help bring out the natural sweetness in the Brussels sprouts.
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, removing any wilted outer leaves. This way, they’ll roast evenly and stay deliciously tender.
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each little sprout is coated in that golden goodness!
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and add the chopped turkey bacon. The bacon will crisp up beautifully as the Brussels sprouts roast.
- Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and crispy. The aroma will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug.
- Remove from the oven and toss in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries before serving. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color to your dish.
Fun Ways to Customize It
- Add Cheese: For a rich and creamy twist, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese before serving. The tanginess complements the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts before roasting. It’s a zesty surprise!
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the roasted sprouts just before serving for a refreshing brightness.
- Maple Twist: Drizzle a bit of pure maple syrup over the dish after roasting for a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the savory bacon.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and cut up the turkey bacon the night before; just toss them together right before roasting to save time!
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great in salads or as a topping for grain bowls!
- Slicing Tricks: To evenly cook your Brussels sprouts, make sure to slice them in half through the stem end for uniform size.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor—just pop them in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the dish!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and turkey bacon the night before for a quicker cooking time.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out turkey bacon for chicken sausage, or pecans for walnuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
Enjoy your leftovers within three days for the best flavor and texture!
A Cozy Closing Note
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Toasted Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is not just a recipe; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table and enjoy heartwarming flavors that evoke cherished memories. So as the leaves change and the temperatures drop, prepare this cozy dish for family or friends, and let the warmth and joy fill your home. Save this recipe to your holiday board so it’s ready whenever you need a comforting treat!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Toasted Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish combining roasted Brussels sprouts, savory turkey bacon, crunchy toasted pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. Perfect as a side for easy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- ½ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, removing any wilted outer leaves.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and add the chopped turkey bacon.
- Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until browned and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and toss in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries before serving.
Notes
Make ahead by prepping the Brussels sprouts and turkey bacon the night before. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
