Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Looking to elevate your side dish game with a touch of indulgence and a whole lot of flavor? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon. Picture this – tender Brussels sprouts enveloped in a luxurious creamy sauce, studded with savory bites of smoky bacon, and crowned with a golden layer of gooey cheese. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between decadence and simplicity, making it a must-have for your holiday table or any cozy gathering.

The magic begins as the Brussels sprouts caramelize in the oven, infusing your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that promises a delightful meal ahead. With each bite, you’ll savor the rich creaminess of the sauce, the salty crunch of bacon, and the cheesy goodness that ties it all together. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds – just like my own family and friends always do.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that not only tastes divine but also brings people together in shared joy and appreciation for good food. Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory in the making, a tradition in the forming, and a celebration of the simple pleasures that make mealtime special. Get ready to experience the magic of creamy Brussels sprouts like never before!

Quick Benefits

• Savory Indulgence: Creamy Brussels sprouts paired with smoky bacon create a savory, indulgent dish that pleases even picky eaters.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses adds depth and creaminess to the dish, making each bite a cheesy delight.
• Convenient Preparation: This recipe is easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and reheats well, making it a convenient and delicious side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe

• Indulgent and Easy: This recipe offers a luxurious and creamy side dish that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and busy weeknights.
• Savory and Smoky Flavors: The combination of smoky bacon, garlic, and cheeses creates a savory and rich flavor profile that will appeal to both veggie lovers and skeptics.
• Memorable Cooking Moments: The recipe includes personal anecdotes that add a touch of nostalgia and warmth, making the cooking experience more special and memorable.
• Make-ahead Convenience: The dish can be prepared in advance, stored, and easily reheated without losing its creamy texture and delicious taste, offering convenience for busy schedules.
• Versatile Options: The recipe provides various options for customization, such as using different cheeses, meats, or even vegetarian alternatives, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Perfect Pairing: This creamy Brussels sprouts dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, from holiday roasts to simple chicken dinners, making it a versatile and complementary addition to any meal.
• Historical Inspiration: The recipe is inspired by French bistro-style gratins and the ancient roots of Brussels sprouts, offering a blend of tradition and modern flair that adds depth to the dish.
• Texture and Technique Tips: Practical tips, such as sautéing Brussels sprouts to preserve texture and using a cast iron skillet for extra crispness, ensure a well-executed and satisfying dish every time.

Ingredients for Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Vegetables

• 900 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Meat

• 340 g thick-cut bacon, cut into small pieces

Dairy

• 85 g mozzarella cheese, grated
• 360 ml heavy cream or half and half
• 28 g unsalted butter
• 35 g parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Pantry

• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Pro Tips for Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

For the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon recipe, sauté the Brussels sprouts until lightly charred before baking to maintain their texture. Be careful not to overcook them, as they should be tender but still have a slight bite. This will ensure a perfect balance of flavors and a delightful mouthfeel.

When making the creamy sauce, use a combination of Parmesan for savory depth and mozzarella for a smooth, creamy finish. This duo of cheeses will create a luscious sauce that complements the smoky bacon and earthy Brussels sprouts beautifully. Remember to assemble the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to retain the best freshness and texture for a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Consider using a cast iron skillet for this recipe to enhance the crispiness of the dish, but any oven-safe pan or baking dish will work well. Removing the tough outer leaves and halving the Brussels sprouts after trimming will ensure even cooking and a visually appealing presentation. These pro tips will help you create a delectable and memorable dish that will surely become a favorite at your holiday table.

How to Make Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 200°C.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Cook bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until browned and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep 30–45 ml of bacon fat in the pan, discard any excess.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts

In the reserved bacon fat, sauté Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper over medium-high heat for about 6 minutes until lightly charred. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce

If skillet is not oven-safe, transfer Brussels sprouts to a plate or ovenproof baking dish. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat, then whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add cream while whisking constantly until thickened and heated through. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add Brussels sprouts and bacon back to the skillet, stir gently to coat with the sauce. If using a baking dish, pour sauce over mixture and sprinkle grated mozzarella evenly, then stir quickly to distribute.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the center is bubbling and Brussels sprouts are tender. Serve hot immediately.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish, allow it to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to a covered container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in the oven or microwave, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious.

If you plan to freeze the dish, bake it without the mozzarella topping, cool it completely, then wrap it tightly. Add fresh cheese before reheating in the oven until hot and bubbly. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor of the Brussels sprouts and creamy sauce when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

To enhance the flavors of the dish, consider using pancetta or diced ham as substitutes for bacon, or experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or Gruyere instead of mozzarella. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add a hint of smoked paprika to the cream. Whether served alongside holiday roasts or enjoyed as a comforting meal on its own, this creamy Brussels sprouts recipe is versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are looking to make a vegetarian version of this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish, you can skip the bacon and opt for pancetta or diced ham for a different savory flavor profile. Alternatively, you can enhance the creaminess and add a smoky element by incorporating a spoonful of smoked paprika into the cream mixture.

For those looking to make the dish lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half and reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe. This modification will help cut down on the overall richness while still maintaining a creamy texture in the dish.

When it comes to cheese substitutions, you can experiment with different varieties to suit your taste preferences. Swiss or Gruyere cheese can be used as alternatives to mozzarella, providing a unique flavor profile and adding more depth to the dish. Feel free to customize the cheeses based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences to elevate the creamy and cheesy goodness of this Brussels sprouts recipe.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon dish, consider layering it between slices of toasted sourdough bread for a decadent grilled cheese sandwich experience. The combination of creamy sprouts, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese will elevate a simple lunch into a gourmet delight. Alternatively, top a piping hot baked potato with a generous scoop of this creamy Brussels sprouts mixture for a hearty and satisfying meal. The fluffy potato serves as the perfect base for the rich and indulgent flavors of the dish, creating a comforting and delicious dinner option.

FAQs for Irresistible Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. It’s best to bake it just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

How should I prepare the Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Slice off the stem and remove any tough or yellowed outer leaves before halving each sprout.

What can I use as a substitute for bacon in this recipe?

If you’re out of bacon, you can try using pancetta or diced ham for another layer of savory flavor.

What type of pan or dish should I use for baking this dish?

A cast iron skillet is recommended as it holds heat well and creates extra crispness. However, any oven-safe pan or baking dish will work for this recipe.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon brings as much joy and warmth to your table as it does to mine. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the smoky bacon and tender Brussels sprouts is a true delight for the taste buds. Whether you’re preparing this for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Remember, cooking is all about making memories and sharing love through food. So, gather your loved ones around, savor each bite of this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Bacon, and create new traditions that will last a lifetime. Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to the recipe and make it uniquely yours. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and at the table, and may this dish bring you closer to those you share it with.