Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Dried Cranberries and Pecans

Name: Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Dried Cranberries and Pecans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 strips Bacon, chopped; 1 pound Brussels Sprouts, halved (or quartered if they are too large to eat in one bite); 1/4 cup Chicken Stock (or substitute with water); 2 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar; 1 cup Pecan Halves; 1 cup Dried Cranberries; 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest; Salt and pepper, to taste

By:

dani

Published:

October 7, 2025

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe elegantly balances flavors, combining the earthiness of Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the rich nuttiness of pecans. The balsamic vinegar ties everything together, creating a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. The one-pan approach not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Dried Cranberries and Pecans

These Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are more than just a simple side dish; they are a celebration of fall flavors that amaze the palate. Ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this recipe brings an unexpected twist that will leave your guests asking for seconds. The harmonious blend of ingredients ensures this dish is both comforting and refreshing, making it a must-try for any cooking enthusiast.

Ingredients

6 strips Bacon, chopped
1 pound Brussels Sprouts, halved (or quartered if they are too large to eat in one bite)
1/4 cup Chicken Stock (or substitute with water)
2 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
1 cup Pecan Halves
1 cup Dried Cranberries
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to prepare for baking.

Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add the chopped bacon. Sauté until the bacon is crisp and browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon onto a paper-towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Return the skillet with the remaining bacon grease to medium heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts along with a pinch of salt. Sauté them until they become golden brown on the outside, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

Add Stock and Balsamic Vinegar

Pour the chicken stock and balsamic vinegar over the sautéed Brussels sprouts. Stir in the pecan halves to combine flavors effectively.

Bake Until Tender

Loosely cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until the Brussels sprouts are tender but retain a slight crunch.

Mix in Cranberries and Lemon Zest

Remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the dried cranberries and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Top with Bacon

Finally, sprinkle the crisp bacon over the top of the Brussels sprouts mixture, serving your dish warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Serving Suggestions

These Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with roast chicken, grilled pork, or a hearty Thanksgiving turkey. They also shine as a festive potluck contribution due to their vibrant colors and elevated flavor profile.

Tips for Success

Ensure your Brussels sprouts are uniform in size for even cooking.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or fewer cranberries based on your taste preference.
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing process.

Variations

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Use apple cider vinegar in place of balsamic vinegar for a fruitier taste.
Add a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving for a creamy contrast.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain their delightful texture.

Pairing Ideas

These Brussels sprouts complement a wide variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to create a balanced meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts mixture in advance and bake them just before serving.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing, making it plant-based.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Brussels sprouts can be scrambled with eggs for breakfast or tossed into a salad for lunch.

4. Can I freeze Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
It’s not recommended as the texture may change, but you can store them in the fridge for a few days.

5. How do I know when Brussels sprouts are done baking?
They should be tender and easily pierced with a fork but still hold some firmness.

These Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Dried Cranberries, and Pecans create a delightful and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. Their sweet and savory nature, combined with a variety of textures, elevates any meal. Whether served for a festive gathering or a regular weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Embrace the simplicity and burst of flavor with every bite. Enjoy!