Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Creamy and cheesy Brussel Sprouts with Bacon are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. The combination of smoky bacon and roasted Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a rich parmesan cream sauce, makes this dish irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, it is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The savory notes of bacon combined with the creamy sauce create a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or fish for a well-rounded meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who claim not to like Brussels sprouts will love this version!
• Comfort Food Appeal: Rich and indulgent, it’s the perfect way to enjoy veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for both the bacon and Brussels sprouts.
• Mixing bowl: Provides enough space for combining ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

Creamy and cheesy Brussel Sprouts with Bacon are roasted to perfection and dressed to impress in a delicious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce.

For the Brussel Sprouts

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

How to Make Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. This ensures that your Brussel Sprouts with Bacon cook evenly.

Step 2: Parboil the Brussels Sprouts

1. In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender.
3. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon for about 3 to 4 minutes until it reaches your desired crispness.
2. Remove all but 2 to 3 tablespoons of bacon grease from the skillet.
3. Add the parboiled Brussels sprouts to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine Half & Half (or heavy whipping cream), Dijon mustard, half of the grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

1. Remove the skillet from heat. Pour the cream sauce over the Brussels sprouts.
2. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Once done baking:
1. Let your Brussel Sprouts with Bacon rest for about 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes before serving warm.

This recipe offers a satisfying way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in rich flavors—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Brussel sprouts with bacon make a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, these tasty sprouts can be enjoyed in various ways.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Steak: The rich flavors of steak complement the savory taste of brussel sprouts with bacon.
• Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken pairs well, balancing the dish with its lighter flavor.
• Pork Chops: Juicy pork chops provide a great contrast to the crispy bacon in the sprouts.

Add to a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Tossing the brussel sprouts into a fresh salad adds texture and flavor, making for a hearty meal.
• Caesar Salad: Incorporate them into a Caesar salad for an exciting twist on the classic recipe.

Serve as an Appetizer

• Tapas-Style: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy their unique flavor.
• Charcuterie Board: Include them on a charcuterie board alongside meats and cheeses for an appealing presentation.

How to Perfect Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Perfecting brussel sprouts with bacon requires attention to detail, ensuring every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select firm, bright green sprouts for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between the sprouts while roasting to achieve even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Quality Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for more flavor; it adds richness without overpowering the dish.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to enhance flavor further; consider thyme or rosemary.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allow your dish to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps flavors meld together.
• Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your brussel sprouts immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Brussel sprouts with bacon pair wonderfully with various sides. Here’s a list of perfect companions that will complete your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes seasoned with roasted garlic enhance your plate’s comfort food vibe.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements of the brussels and bacon.
3. Buttery Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds freshness and color, creating an inviting combination on your table.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad brings in protein and fiber, making your meal more nutritious and filling.
5. Creamed Spinach – This rich side dish complements the texture of brussels sprouts beautifully while adding creaminess.
6. Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans provide crunch and freshness, balancing out richer flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brussel Sprouts with Bacon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using unwashed Brussels sprouts: Always wash your Brussels sprouts thoroughly before cooking. This removes any dirt and grit that can affect the taste.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cook the bacon until just crispy. If you overcook it, it may become too tough and chewy, affecting the overall texture of the dish.
• Skipping the parboil step: Don’t skip boiling the Brussels sprouts before roasting. This helps them cook evenly and become tender while retaining their flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Be generous with salt and pepper. Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors in your creamy sauce.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking enhances the flavors and allows for better serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussel Sprouts with Bacon in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

• For freezing, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just adjust cooking times as needed since they may require longer to cook through.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

To make Brussel Sprouts with Bacon healthier, consider using turkey bacon or reducing the amount of cheese used in the cream sauce.

What can I serve with Brussel Sprouts with Bacon?

This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also complements holiday meals perfectly.

Can I prepare these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking step and store them covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like nuts or different cheeses for varied flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Brussel Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that combines savory flavors with creamy goodness. Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients; you’ll find many ways to enjoy this delicious recipe!