Smoky Bacon Lardon Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze & Toasted Almonds
This Smoky Bacon Lardon Brussels Sprouts dish is the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and sweet. The Brussels sprouts are pan-seared with thick, smoky bacon lardons, then caramelized with a maple glaze and finished with crunchy toasted almonds. This dish makes a fantastic side for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or even a hearty appetizer!
Total time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 oz (115g) bacon lardons (or thick-cut bacon, chopped)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts & Bacon
1. Toast the almonds: Heat a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced almonds and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon lardons: In the same skillet over medium heat, cook bacon lardons until crispy (5-7 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
2. Saute the Brussels Sprouts
3. Add olive oil to the bacon fat in the skillet.
4. Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer. Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until deeply golden brown.
5. Stir and cook another 5 minutes, until tender and crispy.
3. Glaze & Finish the Dish
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7. Toss in bacon lardons and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to coat everything.
8. Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
4. Serve
9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra almonds or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~200-250
Protein: ~7g
Fat: ~15g
Carbohydrates: ~15g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~6g
Sodium: ~450mg (varies with bacon and salt)
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Extra Crispy Tip: Roast Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before finishing in the pan with the glaze.
Bacon Substitutes: Use pancetta for a slightly different flavor or omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.