Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

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Elevate your vegetable game with our irresistibly creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe. This dish takes the humble Brussels sprout and transforms it into a symphony of flavors and textures. Picture crisp Brussels sprouts bathed in a velvety, savory cream sauce and adorned with the smoky allure of bacon. Each bite is a harmonious blend of richness and freshness, a perfect side dish that will turn even the staunchest Brussels sprout skeptics into ardent fans. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the delightful world of creamy bacon Brussels sprouts, where every forkful is a celebration of decadence and wholesome goodness.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING MORE CREAMY BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS?

While savoring Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts, you are enjoying a culinary experience and also nourishing your body with nutrients that contribute to overall health and vitality.

1. Nutrient-Rich Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and manganese.
2. Fiber for Digestive Health: Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. A diet high in fiber is linked to a lower risk of digestive issues and helps maintain a healthy weight.
3. Antioxidant Power: Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants that combat oxidative stress in the body.
4. Protein and Satiety: Including bacon in the dish adds protein, which, combined with the fiber from Brussels sprouts, enhances satiety. This can be beneficial for weight management and maintaining energy levels.
5. Good Fats: The bacon in Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts provides some healthy fats, and when consumed in moderation, these fats are essential for nutrient absorption and brain health.

INGREDIENTS LIST FOR CREAMY BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Prepare to dazzle your taste buds with this delightful combination of savory bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that makes Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts a standout side dish or indulgent main course.

1. Bacon (16 oz, chopped into pieces): The star of the show, crispy bacon adds a savory and smoky flavor, infusing the Brussels sprouts with its delicious essence.
2. Onion (1 large, diced): Diced onions contribute a sweet and aromatic element, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
3. Brussels Sprouts (2 lbs, trimmed and halved): These vibrant green cruciferous gems serve as the hearty base, providing a mild, slightly nutty taste and a satisfying texture.
4. Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts and bacon, ensuring a well-balanced dish.
5. Garlic (2 tsp, minced – approximately 4 cloves): Minced garlic adds aromatic warmth, infusing the dish with savory notes that complement the other ingredients.
6. Butter (2 tbsp – optional): For an extra layer of richness, butter can be added to enhance the overall creaminess of the dish.
7. Flour (2 tbsp): Flour serves as a thickening agent, contributing to the creamy texture of the sauce that envelops the Brussels sprouts.
8. Heavy Cream (1 ½ cups): The luscious and velvety base of the sauce, heavy cream imparts a luxurious texture, elevating the dish to a truly indulgent experience.
9. Parmesan Cheese (⅓ cup, shredded): Shredded Parmesan adds a sharp and salty kick, enriching the overall flavor profile with its distinctive taste.
10. Mozzarella Cheese (¾ cup, shredded): The mild and melty Mozzarella cheese enhances the creaminess of the dish, creating a compelling fusion of flavors.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE CREAMY BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS?

• Cook bacon in a large skillet or Dutch oven until browned and crispy. Add the large diced onion and stir to combine.
• Depending on how much grease you are able to render from the bacon will determine if you will add the extra butter. If your bacon was extra fatty you may not need the extra butter. So you will have to make a judgment call.

• Add Brussels sprouts to the bacon and onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and cook over medium-low heat until they begin to soften. Should take about 20-30 minutes for the Brussels sprouts to soften.

• Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Then whisk in the flour and gradually stir in the heavy cream until heated through.
• Add the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

• Finish off by topping with the mozzarella cheese. Place the cover on your skillet or Dutch oven until the mozzarella cheese has melted.

Common Questions and Pro Cooking Tips for Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

By addressing these common queries and incorporating these pro tips, you’ll master the art of preparing Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts, creating a dish that’s both versatile and delectably flavorful.

Common Questions about Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts:

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for optimal texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. However, ensure they are thawed and well-drained before cooking.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness. You can also use plant-based alternatives for heavy cream and cheese.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can partially prepare this dish ahead by cooking the bacon and trimming the Brussels sprouts. Finish the cooking process just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
4. Is it possible to make the dish less creamy? Certainly! Adjust the amount of heavy cream or omit the butter for a lighter version. You can also use half-and-half or milk as a cream substitute.

Pro Cooking Tips for Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts:

1. Crispy Bacon: For extra crispiness, cook the bacon separately until it’s almost fully crisp. Drain excess fat and add it back to the dish later, preventing the Brussels sprouts from becoming too greasy.
2. Even Brussels Sprouts Cooking: Ensure Brussels sprouts are cut to a similar size for even cooking. If using larger ones, consider quartering them to maintain uniformity.
3. Saucing Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of flour or cream. Add more flour for a thicker consistency or more cream for a creamier texture.
4. Browning for Flavor: Allow the Brussels sprouts to brown slightly when cooking, as this caramelization adds depth and enhances their natural sweetness.
5. Cheese Melting Technique: To achieve a smooth and even melt of the cheeses, sprinkle them in small batches, stirring continuously. This ensures a creamy and well-incorporated sauce.

what to serve with Creamy Bacon Brussels sprouts?

Extend the culinary adventure with a medley of recipes from your food blog that perfectly complement the luscious Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts. For a symphony of flavors, pair them with the Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Easy Hasselback Potatoes, creating a delightful contrast of creamy and crispy textures. Elevate the meal further with the Pecan Panko Crusted Dijon Baked Salmon, offering light and dijon notes to balance the richness of the Brussels sprouts. To add a touch of sweetness, the Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots serve as a vibrant and flavorful side. With an array of options from your food blog, every bite promises a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, ensuring a memorable dining experience for your audience.

HOW TO REHEAT, STORE, FREEZE LEFTOVER CREAMY BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS?

Reheating:

1. Microwave: Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat at medium power, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly reheated.
2. Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.

Storing:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezer: If you plan to store them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the sprouts in a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Freezing:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts to cool completely before freezing.
2. Container Choice: Opt for airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to maintain freshness.
3. Labeling: Clearly label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
4. Thawing: To thaw, transfer the frozen sprouts to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat following the recommended methods.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts even on busy days or when planning ahead.