Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
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Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are an indulgent way to elevate your vegetable game. Whether you’re looking for a scrumptious side dish for holiday gatherings or a rich main course that leaves an impression, this recipe delivers! Imagine tender Brussels sprouts coated in a velvety cream sauce, infused with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. It’s a dish that turns even the staunchest vegetable skeptics into believers.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not just about comfort food; it’s about finding a delicious balance between health and indulgence. Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The harmonious blend of flavors—bacon, garlic, and nutmeg—creates an irresistible taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that pack a punch!
"This dish made Brussels sprouts enjoyable for my whole family! The creaminess is just perfect."
The cooking process explained
Creating this creamy delight is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. First, you’ll prep your ingredients, then you’ll cook the bacon to perfection, and finally, you’ll fold in the Brussels sprouts with that luscious cream sauce. The entire process takes roughly 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy choice for any night of the week!
What you’ll need
To whip up this decadent dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
You can easily substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or use turkey bacon for a healthier option!
Step-by-step instructions
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Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the ends and remove any wilted leaves of the outer layer. Slice them in half for uniform cooking.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the fat in the skillet.
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Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat, cut-side down. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until they caramelize and turn golden brown.
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Stir the Brussels sprouts and add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the garlic become fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the Brussels sprouts. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
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Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the Brussels sprouts to become tender.
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Top with grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
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Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet, mixing well. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Serve warm as a rich side dish or as a decadent main.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, consider the following pairing ideas:
- Serve them as a sumptuous side to roasted chicken or pork tenderloin.
- Pair them with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
- For a complete meal, serve over a bed of quinoa or rice.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through. If you want to freeze extras, allow them to cool before placing them in freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for about 2 months. Just remember, the texture may change slightly, but the flavor will remain fantastic!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure the Brussels sprouts are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of white wine during the simmering step.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations you might try:
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving for a tangy kick.
- Incorporate some chopped mushrooms for an earthy flavor and added texture.
- Swap the Parmesan cheese for crumbled goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Total prep and cooking time take about 30 minutes.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the bacon, and consider using smoked paprika for that smoky flavor, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture and flavor.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this delicious dish to your kitchen. Enjoy exploring the flavors of Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!
Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
Method
- Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the ends and removing any wilted leaves.
- Slice the Brussels sprouts in half for uniform cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the fat in the skillet.
- Add the Brussels sprouts cut-side down to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and sprouts are tender.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Add the crispy bacon back, mix well, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm as a side dish or main course.
