Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe transforms simple veggies into an indulgent side dish. Roasted to perfection, the Brussels sprouts are coated in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce and topped with crispy bacon for the ultimate flavor experience. Whether it’s a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family—my husband was skeptical about Brussels sprouts, but one bite of this creamy, cheesy goodness had him asking for seconds! Now, it’s a staple on our dinner table, especially during the holidays. Even my kids, who normally avoid anything green, love the crispy bacon bits and creamy sauce. It’s a true game-changer for Brussels sprouts!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

•Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and bacon creates a dish that’s anything but boring.

•Creamy and Indulgent: A rich sauce turns these Brussels sprouts into a comforting side dish.

•Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for holiday meals, simple enough for everyday dinners.

•Customizable: Add mushrooms or swap bacon for pancetta for a gourmet twist.

Ingredients Notes For Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

•Brussels Sprouts: Halve them for even cooking and crispy edges.

•Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and texture.

•Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the luscious sauce.

•Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the cream.

•Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish.

•Butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce.

Recipe Steps

1.Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 20-25 minutes.

2.Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the bacon grease in the skillet.

3.Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4.Combine: Add the roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly.

5.Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.

Storage Options

•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

•Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven to avoid separating the sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

•Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.

•Meat-Free: Skip the bacon and add toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.

•Add Veggies: Toss in mushrooms or asparagus for extra variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

A: You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Consider thickening it with a bit of cornstarch slurry.

Q: What’s a good pairing for this dish?

A: It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, or even a holiday ham.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is proof that vegetables can be luxurious and utterly delicious. Bring it to your table and watch it steal the spotlight!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

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Course: Side Dish

Kitchen: American, Comfort Food

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
• ▢ 6 slices bacon chopped
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 1 cup heavy cream
• ▢ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• ▢ 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional, for topping
• ▢ Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

• Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
• Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are golden and slightly tender.
• Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
• Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to coat the Brussels sprouts. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
• Combine with Bacon: Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet, mixing well.
• Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot as a side dish.