When preparing cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon, your side choices can elevate the dish’s comforting essence. Think of a crisp, well-dressed salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. A simple quinoa salad with avocado and cherry tomatoes can also provide a refreshing contrast.
If your heart is set on something warm, garlic mashed potatoes speed up the comfort. Serve a loaf of crusty bread to soak up any leftover cheese sauce—trust me, it’s irresistible. Pairing with a glass of white wine or even a light beer will complete the meal beautifully. Now, let’s dive into the culinary adventure.
Let’s be honest: Brussels sprouts have had a love-hate relationship with many of us. I remember growing up when they graced our dinner table, and they often landed in the “awkward vegetable” category.
But what if I told you that sautéing these little green wonders with crisp bacon and ooey-gooey cheese would change your perspective? Enter cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon—the dish that unites flavor and comfort in every bite.
Ever since I perfected this dish, it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
Each time I serve it, I witness the delightful surprise etched on faces as they discover the joy of Brussels sprouts. It’s about time we embraced these nutritional gems! I’m here to share my journey, tips, and tricks to create the ultimate cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon experience.
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What is Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
At its core, cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon is a warm, hearty dish featuring Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a cheesy sauce. It’s more than just a side; it’s a rich and satisfying experience. The Brussels sprouts are halved, enabling them to soak up all that glorious flavor as they cook.
Bacon adds that salty, umami punch that dances on the palate. The cheese, oh the cheese! It binds everything together, offering smoothness and depth with every mouthful. Add some cream, garlic, and a sprinkle of nuts, and you have a dish worthy of a dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
While many recipes throw cheese and bacon together for the sake of convenience, I focus on creating layers of flavor. First, the use of two kinds of cheese—Gruyère and Parmesan—provides a complex taste profile that is just unforgettable. Second, we roast the Brussels sprouts to enhance their natural sweetness, which balances the savory bacon.
Lastly, to take things up a notch, I include Dijon mustard. Just a hint brings a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness. Trust me; this isn’t just another cheesy concoction; it’s a fulfilling culinary experience.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine lightly caramelized Brussels sprouts that yield a delightful crunch. The bacon adds a perfectly crispy contrast. Now, consider the cheese—it melts seamlessly, enveloping each Brussels sprout in a blanket of richness.
Then the creamy elements blend in for an inviting finish. There’s a balance of saltiness, creaminess, and a subtle nuttiness from the toasted pine nuts. With every bite, you will crave another. If you think Brussels sprouts can’t excite your taste buds, prepare to be shocked.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Let’s get down to the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise
- ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts (for a delicate crunch)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang)
These simple yet impactful ingredients create a dish that feels indulgent without losing the wholesome essence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the kitchen!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). The right temperature ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast beautifully, developing that delightful caramelization.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Take your Brussels sprouts and give them a good rinse. After patting them dry, slice them in half. This helps them roast evenly and absorb all the glorious flavors we’re about to add.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the bacon from the pan but keep the fat in there. We need that flavor!
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the leftover bacon fat. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful here—not too much heat, or you’ll burn the garlic and ruin everything.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed garlic, roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix it all together until every Brussels sprout is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Pour your mixture into a greased baking dish. You want everything to fit snugly without overcrowding. It ensures even cooking and allows those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Seriously, it’s hard to describe the smell, but it’s fantastic!
Step 8: Finish with Pine Nuts and Parmesan
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts on top. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Tricks On Making Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Here are some handy tips to make sure your cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon turns out perfectly every time:
- Roast the Brussels: For the best flavor and texture, don’t skip roasting. Sautéing in bacon fat also adds a lovely flavor dimension.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or Fontina can work well too!
- Don’t Rush: Let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving. It allows flavors to meld and will help set the cheesy sauce.
- Time Saver: Want to prep ahead? You can assemble everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds color and freshness. Plus, they make for a lovely presentation!
Nutrition Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition aspect. The addition of Brussels sprouts gives you an excellent source of fiber, vitamin K, and C. Bacon and cheese, while delicious, do add calories, so keep that in mind. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 16g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 25g
These values depend on serving sizes and specific measurements. Nonetheless, consider it a rich dish best enjoyed occasionally!
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you happen to have leftovers (which I rarely do), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for about 3-4 days. When reheating, consider using an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave. It will help to crisp up the dish again, bringing that fresh oven-baked taste back to life.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
Sometimes the pantry might be missing a few key players. Here are some excellent substitutes:
- Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option. It’s still flavorful but with less fat.
- Nuts: If pine nuts are hard to come by, walnuts or almonds can provide a great crunch.
- Non-Dairy Cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
- Cheese Alternatives: Aim for nutritional yeast for a cheesy effect without dairy. It’s especially popular in vegan cooking.
- Different Vegetables: Try adding asparagus or broccoli instead of Brussels sprouts for a different veggie focus.
Conclusion
Cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon is more than a dish; it’s an experience that redefines how we view Brussels sprouts. With crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and roasted Brussels, it’s a comforting food that can win over any skeptic. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a recipe I proudly share with friends and family.
Whether as a side dish or a warm main, it’s packed with flavor. So gather your ingredients, step into your kitchen, and transform these little green vegetables into a scrumptious masterpiece. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!
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Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bacon – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
Let’s be honest: Brussels sprouts have had a love-hate relationship with many of us. I remember growing up when they graced our dinner table, and they often landed in the “awkward vegetable” category.
But what if I told you that sautéing these little green wonders with crisp bacon and ooey-gooey cheese would change your perspective? Enter cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon—the dish that unites flavor and comfort in every bite.
Ever since I perfected this dish, it's become a staple in my kitchen.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the kitchen!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). The right temperature ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast beautifully, developing that delightful caramelization.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
-
Take your Brussels sprouts and give them a good rinse. After patting them dry, slice them in half. This helps them roast evenly and absorb all the glorious flavors we’re about to add.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
-
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the bacon from the pan but keep the fat in there. We need that flavor!
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
-
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the leftover bacon fat. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful here—not too much heat, or you’ll burn the garlic and ruin everything.
Step 5: Combine Everything
-
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed garlic, roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix it all together until every Brussels sprout is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Transfer to a Baking Dish
-
Pour your mixture into a greased baking dish. You want everything to fit snugly without overcrowding. It ensures even cooking and allows those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Bake
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Seriously, it’s hard to describe the smell, but it’s fantastic!
Step 8: Finish with Pine Nuts and Parmesan
-
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts on top. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Protein 16g32%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some handy tips to make sure your cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon turns out perfectly every time:
- Roast the Brussels: For the best flavor and texture, don’t skip roasting. Sautéing in bacon fat also adds a lovely flavor dimension.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or Fontina can work well too!
- Don’t Rush: Let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving. It allows flavors to meld and will help set the cheesy sauce.
- Time Saver: Want to prep ahead? You can assemble everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds color and freshness. Plus, they make for a lovely presentation!
