It’s that time of year when Brussels sprouts start to get a glow-up. You know, those little green orbs that once made you cringe as a kid? Well, let me tell you, they’ve had a makeover and are now the star of the show in my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe. Imagine biting into tender sprouts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, with the savory crunch of bacon dancing around your taste buds. Sounds delightful, right?
Now picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and your friends walk into your kitchen, lured by the heavenly aroma wafting through the air. You’re serving up these Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon alongside a juicy roast chicken. Suddenly, every skeptic in the room is reaching for seconds! Who knew Brussels could be this exciting? They might just save your dinner party from becoming a “what were we thinking?” moment.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Brussels sprouts are incredibly easy to whip up and require minimal cooking skills.
- Their flavor profile is nothing short of divine, combining creaminess with garlic and savory bacon.
- The visual appeal adds an elegant touch to any plate with their vibrant green color and golden-brown bacon bits.
- They’re versatile enough to serve as a side or even as a main dish for vegetarian friends (just skip the bacon).
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts; smaller ones are usually sweeter and more tender.
- Bacon: Go for thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and that satisfying crunch.
- Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture; don’t skimp on this one!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will add robust flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the taste of the sprouts.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Those Sprouts
Start by washing your Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and cut them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook about four slices of bacon until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
Using the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add olive oil if needed. Toss in your halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Sauté for about five minutes until they begin to brown.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Chop up three to four cloves of garlic and add them to the pan once your sprouts have caramelized slightly. Stir frequently for another two minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in one cup of heavy cream while scraping up all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Crumble your crispy bacon back into the skillet with the sauce and stir well to combine all those delicious flavors together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you’ve mastered these Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, get ready for them to steal the spotlight at your next gathering! Your friends will be raving about them long after dinner is over—and who knows? You might just convert some lifelong veggie haters along the way!
You Must Know
- These creamy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts with bacon are not just a side dish; they are the star of the show.
- Rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor, they’ll steal the spotlight on your dinner table and have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by crisping the bacon in a pan until it’s perfectly golden and delicious. Remove it and then sauté the Brussels sprouts in that glorious bacon fat. Once they’re tender, toss in garlic, cream, and Parmesan to create a dreamy sauce that binds everything together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the Brussels sprouts for broccoli or cauliflower if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or toss in some toasted nuts for an extra crunch. Personalize it to match your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them up on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Avoid using a microwave to prevent soggy sprouts.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy bacon, don’t rush—let it cook slowly over medium heat.
- Always taste as you go; seasoning is key!
- If you want extra creaminess, add more cheese at the end.
Sometimes I whip up these creamy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts with bacon on a whim when friends drop by unexpectedly. The look on their faces when they take their first bite is priceless—it’s pure joy served on a plate!
FAQs:
What are the main ingredients in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
The key ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon include fresh Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, heavy cream, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add seasonings like salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. roasted garlic kale Caesar salad fresh homemade Caesar salad The combination of creamy texture and savory bacon creates a delicious side dish that pairs well with many main courses. chicken Caesar pasta salad.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
Preparing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon takes about 30 minutes. This includes washing and trimming the Brussels sprouts, cooking the bacon until crispy, and sautéing the vegetables. The cooking process is quick, allowing you to enjoy this tasty dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon ahead of time. To do this, cook the dish completely and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a complete meal. chipotle ranch grilled chicken burrito They also complement holiday feasts beautifully and can be a standout side dish at any gathering.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that combines rich flavors and textures. With just a few simple ingredients like Brussels sprouts, bacon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you can create a delicious complement to any meal. This recipe is quick to prepare and can even be made ahead of time for added convenience. Enjoy this savory treat that will impress your family and friends at any gathering! For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a decadent side dish that elevates your meals with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Tender Brussels sprouts are enveloped in a luscious garlic cream sauce, complemented by the savory crunch of crispy bacon. This dish transforms a humble vegetable into a standout star at your dinner table, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Brussels sprouts by washing and trimming them. Cut in half lengthwise.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and sauté halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down for about 5 minutes until browned.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream while scraping up browned bits from the pan. Gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Crumble cooked bacon back into the skillet, combine well, and season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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