Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This Parmesan garlic Brussels sprouts dish is the perfect side to accompany any meat dish. I love how simple this dish is to make and how tender and delicious the sprouts turn out. The Brussels sprouts are seared perfectly and the aromatics complement the sprouts and bacon perfectly. This side dish is also low in carbohydrates, so those on low carb diets can eat this! In this recipe, the bacon is first cooked until crispy in the skillet to render the fat, then removed and set aside. The fat from the bacon is used to cook the Brussels sprouts. The trick is to not stir the sprouts at first to allow them to brown and to place them cut-side-down first. Then, you can stir the sprouts and cook until tender. Lastly, the garlic and shallots are added near the end of cooking. After topping it off with some Parmesan cheese, you have a delicious side dish! Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts

To achieve the best flavor and texture, start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for firm, bright green sprouts without any yellow or brown leaves. If the sprouts are larger, you may want to cut them in half or even quarters to ensure even cooking. Before cooking, soak them in cold water for a few minutes to remove any dirt or grit. Another tip is to use a cast iron skillet if you have one. The even heat distribution helps in getting that nice crispy texture on the outside while keeping them tender inside. Be patient when cooking; let the sprouts get that golden brown color before stirring. This caramelization process adds a depth of flavor that takes the dish to another level. Lastly, don’t skimp on the seasoning. A little salt and freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the overall taste significantly.

Serving Suggestions

These Parmesan garlic Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving them alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal. They also complement baked salmon quite well, adding a nice crunch and flavor contrast. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a quinoa salad or stuffed bell peppers. If you want to make it a more substantial dish, toss in some cooked pasta. For a festive touch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or cranberries as a garnish. This dish also works great for holiday dinners, adding a pop of color to your table. Just remember to serve them hot, right out of the skillet, to enjoy the full flavor and crispy texture.

Storage Instructions and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When storing, try to keep the bacon separate if possible, as it can lose its crispiness. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. This method will help maintain their texture. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of olive oil to revive some of that crispy goodness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy. If you want to spice things up, feel free to add some fresh garlic or a sprinkle of lemon juice when reheating to bring back that fresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?

Frozen Brussels sprouts can work, but they might not get as crispy since they are usually blanched before freezing. If you go this route, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for bacon?

If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, try using turkey bacon or even pancetta for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, sauté some mushrooms or use smoked paprika to add a bit of that smoky taste.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet to help retain some of that crispy texture instead of using the microwave.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and the bacon ahead of time. Just keep them separate in the fridge and cook them together right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What should I serve these Brussels sprouts with?

These Parmesan garlic Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, or even grilled fish. They also make a tasty addition to a holiday meal, adding a nice pop of flavor.

Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Liza Agbanlog

Roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed with crispy bacon, caramelized shallots, and garlic, then topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for irresistible flavor. It's a savory side dish that’s easy to whip up and packed with deliciousness.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Servings 4 servings

Calories 335 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lbs Brussels sprouts, cleaned and cut into quarters, or halves if small sprouts are small
• 3 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, add the bacon pieces. Stir continually until bacon pieces are cooked, about 3 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving all of the oil in the pan, and set aside.
• Add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down. Cook for about 5 minutes without stirring. Then, stir the Brussels sprouts and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until tender.
• Add the garlic, shallots and stir for two minutes. Stir back in the bacon.
• Top with the Parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 335kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

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