
Introduction to Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, you often find yourself in a whirlwind of busy schedules, and the thought of preparing a delicious dinner can feel overwhelming. That’s where this delightful recipe for Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon comes in! It effortlessly combines the rich flavors of creamy goodness with crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts, making it a quick solution for those hectic evenings. This dish is perfect for impressing your loved ones, or even just treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, every bite will be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish is a treasure for busy moms and professionals alike! It’s not only quick to whip up, but the combination of crispy bacon and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this comfort food time and time again!
Ingredients for Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Gathering the right ingredients is step one in crafting this comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon:
- Brussels sprouts: These little green gems bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. Look for fresh ones for the best taste.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is essential here. It offers perfect crispiness and an irresistible smoky plunge into flavor. Don’t skimp on quality!
- Heavy cream or half and half: This adds that dreamy creaminess to the dish. Feel free to substitute with a lighter option if you prefer.
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of finely shredded parmesan brings nutty sharpness. It melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese: Grated mozzarella adds creaminess and a stretchy texture that makes every bite heavenly.
- Unsalted butter: Used for creating the delicious sauce base, it enriches the dish. Always try to use unsalted to control the salt content.
- All-purpose flour: This is your thickening agent. It helps create that luscious sauce we all love!
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic warmth. It’s definitely a must for that rich flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor. Always adjust according to your taste.
For more precise measurements, check the end of the article where I’ve provided everything you need to get started!
How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get organized. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). It’s all about smoothing the cooking process, so gather all your ingredients on the counter. You’ll want to have your Brussels sprouts trimmed, bacon diced, and cheeses ready to go. Having everything within reach makes cooking feel like a breeze!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon to Perfection
Now, it’s time to bring that bacon to life! Grab a large cast iron skillet and toss in the diced bacon over medium heat. Sizzle it away until it’s beautifully crisp and golden, about 8–10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, placing it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up that excess grease. Don’t toss the flavorful bacon fat—about 30–45 ml should be reserved in the pan. Trust me, it adds so much depth to our Brussels sprouts!
Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
With the bacon crisped to perfection, it’s time for the Brussels sprouts to shine! Add them right into the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sauté those little green wonders over medium-high heat for about 6 minutes. You want them to be lightly charred with a hint of crunch. When they smell amazing—about a minute in—stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, allowing that aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Remove the Brussels sprouts from the pan and set them aside on a plate. Now, let’s make that luscious sauce! In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until you have a smooth mixture. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously until it heats through and thickens. Stir in finely shredded parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. This sauce is the heart of our Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish!
Step 5: Combine Everything and Bake
It’s time for the magic to happen! Return the sautéed Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon back to the skillet. Gently stir to coat them with that creamy sauce. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer everything to an ovenproof baking dish. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Give it a quick mix to distribute the cheese. Now, pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the center is bubbling and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Get ready to enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the bacon! Cook it slowly for that perfect crispness.
- Make sure your Brussels sprouts are similar in size for even cooking.
- Keep the heat moderate while making the sauce to avoid scorching.
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after baking; it makes serving easier.
Equipment Needed
- Cast iron skillet: Perfect for even cooking. A non-stick pan works too.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise ingredient amounts.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending your sauce seamlessly. A fork can work in a pinch!
- Ovenproof dish: Use if your skillet isn’t oven-safe.
- Slotted spoon: Great for removing bacon without excess grease.
Variations of Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a rich, savory flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Add crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that complements the creaminess.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a delightfully fiery flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the sautéed Brussels sprouts for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
- Pair this dish with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
- A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Present in individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties.
FAQs about Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Can I make Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven to heat through. It’s a fantastic time-saver!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, feel free to swap heavy cream with half and half or whole milk. The sauce might not be as thick, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven so it stays creamy and warm.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Sure! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before sautéing. Fresh brings extra crunch, but frozen can work in a pinch.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
You bet! This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish holds up well and makes for a fabulous meal prep option, providing healthy veggies wrapped in creamy goodness for your busy week!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish has been an absolute joy in my kitchen, and I hope it brings you the same delight! It’s incredible how a few simple ingredients can transform into a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big hug. The combination of creamy goodness and crispy bacon never fails to impress, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner with loved ones, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Dive in and let the flavors sweep you off your feet!
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Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A delightful dish combining creamy textures with crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients
- 900 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 340 g thick-cut bacon, cut into small pieces
- 360 ml heavy cream or half and half
- 35 g parmesan cheese, finely shredded
- 85 g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 28 g unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Set oven to 200°C.
- In a large cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook bacon pieces until thoroughly browned and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 30–45 ml bacon fat in the pan, discarding excess.
- Add Brussels sprouts to the reserved bacon fat. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté over medium-high heat for approximately 6 minutes until lightly charred. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Transfer Brussels sprouts to a plate or an ovenproof baking dish if skillet is not oven-safe. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually pour in the cream, whisking continually until heated through and thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return Brussels sprouts and bacon to the skillet and gently stir to coat with the sauce. If using a baking dish, pour the sauce over and mix. Sprinkle grated mozzarella evenly and give a quick stir to distribute.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the center is bubbling and Brussels sprouts are fully tender. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative.
- Ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly charred for better flavor.
- Can be served as a side dish or as a main meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg