Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that can steal the spotlight at any meal, let me introduce you to my beloved Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. This dish is truly a game-changer! The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the creamy, garlicky parmesan sauce brings everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, these Brussel sprouts are sure to impress everyone at the table.

I love making this recipe because it’s simple yet so satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in while indulging in that comforting flavor we all crave. Trust me, once you try these Brussels sprouts, they’ll become a regular on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even those who claim they don’t like vegetables will find themselves going back for seconds!
• Creamy and Delicious: The combination of creamy sauce and crispy bacon makes every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy as leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile Side Dish: Goes well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled fish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need for your scrumptious Brussel Sprouts with Bacon:

For the Brussel Sprouts

• 1 pound brussels sprouts (washed, dried, and cut in half)

For the Sauce

• 8 slices thick cut bacon (diced)
• 1 cup Half & Half (or heavy whipping cream)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own:

• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Switch up the cheese: Try substituting Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Go vegan: Use plant-based bacon alternatives and coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to roast those delicious sprouts!

Step 2: Parboil the Brussels Sprouts

In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add your halved Brussels sprouts and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re just tender. This step helps soften them without losing their lovely crunch!

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While your sprouts are parboiling, grab a cast iron skillet and cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy—about 3 to 4 minutes should do it. Remove all but 2-3 tablespoons of the bacon grease; we want just enough left to help sauté the sprouts.

Step 4: Combine the Cream Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together Half & Half (or heavy whipping cream), Dijon mustard, half of the grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Mixing these flavors creates a luscious sauce that will coat our Brussels sprouts perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything in the Skillet

Remove your skillet from heat and add in those parboiled Brussels sprouts. Pour that beautiful cream sauce over everything. Sprinkle on the remaining parmesan cheese—this will form a gorgeous golden crust as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine during this time!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let your Brussels sprouts rest for about 5 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right touch for garnishing! Enjoy every creamy bite of these delightful Brussel Sprouts with Bacon!

Pro Tips for Making Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Creating the perfect Brussels sprouts with bacon is all about technique and a few special touches. Here are some tips to elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture. Fresh sprouts will roast beautifully and enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t Skip Parboiling: Briefly cooking the Brussels sprouts before roasting helps to soften them and speeds up the cooking process. This ensures they become tender without burning during roasting.
• Adjust Bacon Crispiness: Depending on your preference, you can modify how crispy you cook the bacon before adding it to the dish. A less crispy bacon will lend more flavor to the cream sauce, while extra crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for added depth. Different cheeses can bring unique flavors that complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little kick, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños before baking. Spice can add an exciting dimension to the dish!

How to Serve Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Serving Brussels sprouts with bacon can be a delightful experience that impresses family and guests alike. With thoughtful presentation and complementary accompaniments, this dish is sure to shine at any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest can brighten up the rich flavors of the dish, adding a zing that balances out the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are a perfect pairing. Their smooth texture complements the crunchy sprouts while soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy roasted chicken thighs seasoned simply with salt and pepper make an excellent main dish alongside these savory Brussels sprouts.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of your main dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping into that cheesy cream sauce! It’s an irresistible addition that everyone will love.

Now you’re ready to serve up this comforting side dish in style! Enjoy every bite of those scrumptious Brussels sprouts with bacon!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy and cheesy Brussel Sprouts with Bacon recipe is perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. You can easily store leftovers or even make it ahead of time for quick reheating.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Brussel sprouts in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Allow the sprouts to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Note that texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350˚F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave: heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Brussel Sprouts with Bacon:

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon in Brussel Sprouts with Bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that it may have a different taste and texture compared to traditional bacon.

What can I serve with my Brussel Sprouts with Bacon?

These delicious Brussel sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as part of a hearty vegetarian spread. They also make a fantastic side dish for holiday meals!

How do I ensure my Brussel Sprouts are crispy?

To achieve crispy sprouts, make sure they are well-dried after washing and parboiling. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking dish when roasting; this allows hot air to circulate around them for that perfect crunch!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives and use coconut cream or a nut-based cream instead of Half & Half. You can also replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish of Brussel Sprouts with Bacon! The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your family and friends. It’s not just a side dish but an experience that brings warmth to any table. Have fun cooking and savoring every bite—your palate will thank you!