Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate side dish that disappears before the main course is even served, Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is about to become your new obsession. Imagine golden, caramelized sprouts and crispy bacon smothered in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce—all baked until bubbling and irresistible. This comfort food classic manages to be elegant yet down to earth, with a lush texture and smoky, savory depth. Whether you’re jazzing up a weeknight dinner or looking for a showstopper for the holidays, this dish delivers on all fronts. Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is about to win over even the skeptics at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to unforgettable Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon lies in a short list of honest, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a special role—think of it as a little flavor puzzle that comes together perfectly in every creamy, cheesy bite.

• Bacon: Smoky, salty, and crisped to perfection, bacon is the backbone of this dish and provides irresistible savory flavor.
• Brussels Sprouts: Halved for maximum caramelization, their natural sweetness comes alive in the oven.
• Salt and Pepper: Keep it simple, and season to taste to enhance all those gorgeous flavors.
• Garlic: Just a touch punched up in bacon drippings gives that unmistakable aromatic depth.
• Butter: Richness central—helps build a silky sauce base that clings to every sprout.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides just enough body to the sauce, making it thick and smooth.
• Heavy Cream (or Half and Half): The game-changer for creamy texture; use heavy cream for extra indulgence or half and half for a slightly lighter feel.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and salty, it melts easily and adds that signature flavor to the sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Delivers ultimate meltiness and helps give the top that craveworthy stretch.

How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Get your oven ready by preheating it to 400 degrees F. This ensures a piping-hot baking environment so the dish comes out bubbly and the cheese melts like a dream. A hot oven is key for getting the perfect tender texture in your Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to a large cast iron skillet and cook over medium heat until it’s browned and wonderfully crisp. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate. Remember, a bit of bacon fat in the pan is essential for the next step, so don’t discard all of it!

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Toss your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts into the skillet with about 2 to 3 tablespoons of bacon grease. Season well with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get that lovely char on their cut sides, about 6 minutes, then stir in the garlic so it sizzles into the mix.

Step 4: Start the Sauce

Remove the sprouts from the skillet (and transfer them to a plate or baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe). Melt butter in the same pan, then whisk in the flour to create a quick roux. Little by little, pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly. Add the parmesan and keep stirring until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and thickened. This is what will blanket your Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon with decadent richness!

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Return the Brussels sprouts and bacon to the pan with the sauce, or layer them up in your baking dish if using. Give everything a good toss so each sprout gets a coat of luscious cheese sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella over the top, and gently mix so it softens but doesn’t disappear completely.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the skillet or baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the center is bubbling, and the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender. Let it cool for a moment before serving—then dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Garnishes

For a final flourish, scatter a few extra crispy bacon crumbles or shower with freshly chopped parsley right before serving. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or a twist of black pepper adds brightness and makes these Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This dish is a superstar alongside almost any main—especially roast chicken, juicy steak, or pork tenderloin. Pair Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon with fluffy mashed potatoes, herbed rice, or even a simple green salad to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon into small ramekins for individual servings or bake it in a rustic cast iron skillet for family-style appeal. You can also pile it on toasted baguette slices for a decadent appetizer that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days—just as delicious for lunch as they were at dinner!

Freezing

For best texture, freezing isn’t recommended since creamy sauces can separate and become watery after thawing. If you need to freeze, place cooled portions in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe dish and store for up to one month, then thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To revive your Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, reheat gently in a covered ovenproof dish at 350 degrees F until warmed through. You can also use the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring often, but oven reheating will keep the sauce extra creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh is best for a caramelized texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking so you don’t introduce extra moisture to the sauce.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Pancetta or diced prosciutto are delicious alternatives for keeping the smoky, savory vibe. For a vegetarian option, try smoked paprika and a little olive oil for richness.

Can I make Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, add a few extra minutes to the bake time to heat all the way through.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or cornstarch slurry. The result is just as creamy, with all the crave-worthy flavor intact.

Can I lighten up the recipe?

For a lighter take, use turkey bacon, half and half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese slightly. It’ll still give you that signature Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon flavor, just a bit less indulgent.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to convert Brussels sprouts skeptics and earn cult-favorite side dish status, give Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon a try. It’s deceptively simple but guaranteed to impress—cheesy, smoky, and so fabulously comforting. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving it all year long!

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