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.
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.
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.
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.
Let’s get down to the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
These simple yet impactful ingredients create a dish that feels indulgent without losing the wholesome essence.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the kitchen!
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). The right temperature ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast beautifully, developing that delightful caramelization.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Here are some handy tips to make sure your cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon turns out perfectly every time:
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:
These values depend on serving sizes and specific measurements. Nonetheless, consider it a rich dish best enjoyed occasionally!
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.
Sometimes the pantry might be missing a few key players. Here are some excellent substitutes:
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!
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.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Here are some handy tips to make sure your cheesy Brussels sprouts bacon turns out perfectly every time:
Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.