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Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
- 4strips bacon
chopped
- 1 lbbrussels sprouts
trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
- 1 largeshallot
finely chopped
- ½ chalf-and-half
- 1 ½ tbspdijon mustard
- ⅓ cfreshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cshredded sharp white cheddar cheese
divided
- 1 tspgarlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- 2
Add bacon to an ovenproof skillet over medium heat, and cook until crispy, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel to drain, leaving bacon grease in skillet.
- 3
Place the sprouts cut side down in the skillet, and cook for about 4 minutes over medium heat, being careful not to burn. Flip when the sprouts start to brown. Add shallots to the sprouts, and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the skillet, and wipe the skillet clean.
- 4
Whisk half-and-half and Dijon in the skillet, and stir in Parmesan, half of the Cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sprouts back to the skillet, stirring gently. Evenly scatter the remaining Cheddar over the sprouts.
- 5
Bake in the preheated oven until starting to bubble and turn golden brown, checking sprouts for tenderness with the tip of a knife, 12 to 15 minutes. If mixture looks a little dry, drizzle in a little bit of half-and-half for moisture.
- 6
Remove skillet from oven, top with bacon, and serve,
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
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About this Recipe
Tired of lackluster Brussels sprouts that just don't hit the mark? Get ready to transform even the most ardent Brussels sprouts skeptics into enthusiastic fans with these incredible Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. This dish isn't just a side; it's a revelation, promising to be the star of your dinner table.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes these cheesy Brussels sprouts truly stand out is the masterful combination of rich, savory flavors and a surprisingly simple, one-pan approach. The crispy bacon renders down, providing a flavorful base, while the Brussels sprouts are cooked until tender-crisp. A luxurious sauce, enriched with half-and-half, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan, clings beautifully to every sprout, creating an irresistible depth that makes this dish truly special. The secret lies in balancing the slight bitterness of the sprouts with creamy, salty, and tangy notes.
What to Expect
Prepare for a side dish that's nothing short of addictive. You'll savor tender, earthy Brussels sprouts embraced by a velvety, decadent cheese sauce that boasts a fantastic savory depth from both sharp white cheddar and freshly grated Parmesan. Each bite offers a delightful contrast: the slight crunch of perfectly cooked sprouts, the salty crispness of bacon, and the subtle tang from Dijon mustard and aromatic shallots. It's a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile that elevates any meal, providing a rich, satisfying experience that might just overshadow your main course.
Customization & Variations
While the combination of crisp bacon and two types of cheese is a match made in heaven, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different sharp cheeses, like Gruyère or fontina, for a unique twist on the cheesy base. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes would be a fantastic addition. For a vegetarian adaptation, you could omit the bacon entirely and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of savory, smoky flavor.
Serving & Context
These Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are an ideal, hearty side dish for almost any dinner occasion, from a weeknight meal to a festive holiday spread. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a perfectly seared steak for a memorable, comforting accompaniment.