Discover a delectable blend of creamy garlic, parmesan, and crispy bacon with Brussels sprouts in this savory recipe. Perfect for a flavorful side or main dish!
Irresistibly Savory: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon Delight
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when prepared correctly, they transform into a gourmet delight that can win over even the most skeptical of eaters. This recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon brings together a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and crispy elements, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you're prepping for a holiday dinner or simply want a delicious side dish, these Brussels sprouts are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (approximately 450g) Brussels sprouts, halved and outer leaves removed
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Start by washing the Brussels sprouts and trimming the ends. Remove any damaged or yellow outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly.
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon onto a paper-towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
- In the same skillet with the retained bacon grease, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down in a single layer. Let them sear undisturbed for about 3-5 minutes or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip the sprouts and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet retain some crunch.
Add Garlic and Season:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and Parmesan cheese will add saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium and pour the heavy cream over the Brussels sprouts, gently stirring to coat them evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and mix until the cheese has melted, and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate Bacon and Add Finishing Touches:
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, stirring it into the creamy Brussels sprouts.
- For an added layer of flavor, incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest at this stage, if desired.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon dish combines a delectable mix of flavors and textures that highlight the versatility of this often-overlooked vegetable. The creaminess of the sauce, the nuttiness of the Parmesan, and the crispy, smoky bacon come together to create a harmony of tastes. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, it’s best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while still warm and flavorful. Whether you're a seasoned Brussels sprouts lover or trying them for the first time, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table!