Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Your New Favorite Comfort Side Dish
Prepare to have your perception of Brussels sprouts completely transformed! These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the epitome of indulgent comfort food. Imagine perfectly golden and tender Brussels sprouts, generously coated in a luxurious, silky garlic cream sauce, studded with irresistible smoky bacon, and crowned with a bubbling, golden layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a culinary experience designed to delight even the most skeptical palates.
Simple to prepare, incredibly cozy, and so profoundly delicious, you’ll undoubtedly forget any past reservations you might have had about Brussels Sprouts. Get ready to add this to your regular rotation, as it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
For me, the undeniable charm of this dish lies in its exquisite balance of flavors and textures. It’s a symphony where smoky, crisp bacon dances with the deep, nutty notes of perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts. Then, the whole ensemble is enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, culminating in a glorious, bubbling blanket of melted cheese. Every single bite of these Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon offers a delightful combination of slight crunch, ultimate creaminess, and a profound sense of comfort. It’s truly an experience that elevates a simple vegetable into a star of your meal.
What I adore most about this recipe, beyond its incredible taste, is its sheer convenience. It’s quick, straightforward, and consistently earns rave reviews from everyone who tries it—making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. But let’s be honest, I often prepare it just for myself, because sometimes you need a little one-pan kitchen magic to brighten your day. With a handful of accessible ingredients and minimal effort, these once-maligned Brussels Sprouts are transformed into the undeniable star of the table, proving just how delicious they can be when prepared with a little love and a lot of flavor.
If you find yourself craving more delicious, cozy comfort food that’s big on flavor and easy on effort, you’re in for a treat. My Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes offer another layer of cheesy, creamy goodness, perfect for pairing with any main dish. Similarly, my Easy Mozzarella Chicken delivers quick, satisfying flavor that will definitely hit the spot. These recipes share the same philosophy: maximum taste, minimum fuss, and a whole lot of deliciousness that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.
The Simple Stars: Ingredients for Irresistible Brussels Sprouts
Just a handful of quality, simple ingredients is all it takes to transform humble Brussels sprouts into a side dish that’s rich, cozy, and utterly irresistible. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this culinary show and what makes them shine:
- Brussels Sprouts: The vibrant green foundation of our dish! We’ll sear them until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior and those coveted slightly crispy edges, while remaining tender and sweet on the inside. Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves for the best texture and flavor. They are also packed with vitamins K and C, and fiber, adding a healthy boost.
- Bacon: More than just a flavor enhancer, crispy bacon adds a crucial smoky, salty depth and an incredible textural contrast to the soft sprouts and creamy sauce. It also provides delicious drippings to kickstart the cooking process, infusing every component with its savory essence. Choose a good quality, thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor.
- Garlic & Cream: This dynamic duo forms the luxurious, silky base that lovingly wraps around every sprout and piece of bacon. Freshly minced garlic is key here, infusing the sauce with its pungent, aromatic warmth. The cream (light or heavy, depending on your preference) creates a decadent, comforting richness that ties all the robust flavors together, making each bite truly satisfying.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan: The ultimate cheesy topping that seals the deal! Mozzarella brings its incredible meltiness and satisfying stretch, creating that iconic bubbly, golden crust. Parmesan contributes its sharp, salty, umami-rich flavor, deepening the overall savory profile of the dish and providing an irresistible, tangy finish. The combination ensures a rich, multi-layered cheese experience.
Pro Tip: Using fresh ingredients truly makes a significant difference in this recipe. Freshly shredding your cheeses will give you a superior melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting. And don’t skimp on the garlic – fresh is always best for that vibrant, pungent flavor that defines this dish!
Note: Find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements for this delectable recipe in the Recipe Card below, ensuring you have everything you need for success.
Mastering the Magic: My Simple Steps to Creamy Brussels Sprouts Perfection
This isn’t a fussy recipe—it’s what I like to call “kitchen magic” – a series of simple, intuitive steps that lead to an incredibly impressive and satisfying result. We’re creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, transforming humble ingredients into a truly memorable side dish that everyone will adore. Follow these clear steps for a creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious outcome, perfect for any occasion.
- Start with the bacon. Begin by cooking your bacon strips in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat until it’s beautifully golden and irresistibly crispy. This step not only cooks the bacon to perfection but also renders out delicious fat that we’ll use to flavor our sprouts. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, and set it aside. This keeps the bacon perfectly crisp for adding back in later.
- Keep some flavor. After removing the bacon, carefully drain most of the rendered fat from the skillet. It’s important to leave just 1-2 tablespoons of these flavorful drippings to coat the pan. This bacon fat will be the foundational flavor for our Brussels sprouts, adding an incredible depth that butter alone can’t achieve, contributing to the rich, savory profile of the dish.
- Melt the butter. Add the butter directly into the skillet with the reserved bacon drippings. The combination of butter and bacon fat provides an incredibly rich, savory medium for searing the sprouts. Allow it to melt completely over medium heat, swirling it around to combine with the drippings, preparing the pan for the next step.
- Add the sprouts. Carefully place the halved Brussels sprouts into the hot skillet, cut-side down. This is absolutely key for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear and tender interior. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes, or until the cut sides are deeply golden and slightly charred. Resist the urge to move them too soon; that sear builds incredible flavor and texture!
- Garlic time. Once the sprouts are beautifully seared and slightly softened, add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet. Stir it through gently for about 1 minute, allowing it to become wonderfully fragrant without browning or burning. The aroma will instantly make your kitchen smell incredible, and this brief cooking time ensures the garlic’s flavor is released without becoming bitter.
- Pour in the cream. Now for the magic! Pour the cream into the skillet, stirring gently to combine it with the garlic and any browned bits (the “fond”) from the bottom of the pan – that’s pure, concentrated flavor! Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes. During this time, the Brussels sprouts will absorb the rich, silky sauce, becoming wonderfully tender and deeply infused with all the aromatic garlic and savory bacon flavors.
- Make it cheesy. Once the sprouts are tender and the sauce is luscious, it’s time for the ultimate cheesy finish! Scatter generous amounts of shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the top of the dish. Now, bring back that glorious crispy bacon and sprinkle it evenly over the cheese layer. This ensures every serving gets a delightful crunch and burst of smoky flavor, elevating the dish even further.
- Finish bubbling. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully bubbly, fully melted, and starting to turn golden brown. For that irresistible golden-brown, slightly charred top, you can carefully switch to the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it during this stage, as broilers can brown very quickly! The result is a spectacular, comforting dish, ready to be devoured!
If you’re constantly seeking cozy side dishes and easy comfort food recipes, then you’ll undoubtedly fall head over heels for these additional suggestions too. My Bacon & Creamy Garlic Mushrooms are buttery, deeply savory, and incredibly cheesy, plus they’re ready in a flash—perfect for when you need something indulgent and fast. Craving something with a hint of sweetness but still packed with savory goodness? These Cheesy Garlic Sweet Potatoes emerge from the oven delightfully soft, golden, and generously smothered in melty cheese (I guarantee you’ll be fighting over the last bite!). And for those busy nights when you need a complete, satisfying dinner sorted in one pan, my Tomato Basil Chicken & Rice delivers juicy chicken, a flavorful sauce, and is loaded with fresh basil aroma, making it a perfect family meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the Brussels sprouts, ensure they have enough space in a single layer at the bottom of the skillet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable golden char and crisp exterior. Work in batches if necessary to achieve the best texture.
- Adjust Creaminess: The recipe uses light cream, but for an even richer, more decadent sauce, feel free to use heavy cream (full-fat cream) or thickened cream. If the sauce seems too thin for your liking, the cornstarch slurry helps wonderfully. Conversely, if it becomes too thick upon standing, a splash of milk, chicken broth, or even water can thin it out to your preferred consistency.
- Fresh is Best: While convenient, pre-minced garlic and pre-shredded cheese often lack the vibrant flavor and superior melting quality of fresh ingredients. Take the extra few minutes to mince fresh garlic and shred your own mozzarella and parmesan cheese for truly superior results and an unbeatable cheesy pull.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasoning as you go. Brussels sprouts benefit greatly from proper seasoning, especially with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to enhance their natural flavor and balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Broiler Watch: If you choose to use the broiler to achieve that beautifully golden and bubbly cheese topping, do not walk away! Broilers can brown very quickly, and cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stay vigilant and pull it out as soon as it reaches your desired color.
- Consider Adding Lemon Zest: A little burst of freshness can elevate this rich dish. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a tiny squeeze of lemon juice at the very end brightens all the flavors beautifully, cutting through the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About This Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan offer that classic bubbly, golden, and savory finish, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses. Gruyère will add a nutty, earthy depth that pairs wonderfully with bacon and sprouts, while a sharp white cheddar could introduce a piquant tang. Even a smoked provolone could provide a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture and visual appeal.
Leftovers of these creamy Brussels sprouts are fantastic and often taste even better the next day! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through and the cheese becomes melty again – about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid high heat in the microwave, which can sometimes make the sprouts rubbery and cause the creamy sauce to separate.
These creamy garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts with bacon are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of main courses. They make a fantastic side for a juicy roast chicken, a perfectly seared steak, a festive holiday turkey, a tender pork chop, or even a simple baked salmon. For a truly hearty meal, they’re excellent alongside pork tenderloin or grilled sausages. Honestly though, they are so flavorful and satisfying that I’ve often caught myself eating them straight from the pan as a decadent main meal – they’re that good!
While fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for their superior texture and ability to get that perfect golden-brown sear, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. If opting for frozen, thaw them completely first and pat them very, very dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet. They might not achieve the exact same crispy edges as fresh sprouts due to their higher water content, but they will still be delicious once immersed in the rich, creamy garlic sauce.
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can replace the bacon drippings with an extra tablespoon or two of butter or a good quality olive oil for searing. For a smoky flavor substitute, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the pan when you add the garlic. You can also use vegetarian bacon bits or a plant-based bacon alternative if desired to mimic the texture and savory notes.
See It In Action: Step-By-Step Video Guide
Sometimes, seeing is believing – and cooking! Watch this quick video to see exactly how these Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon come together. It’s a fantastic resource for visual learners, providing a clear demonstration of each step, from searing the sprouts to achieving that perfect bubbly, golden cheese topping. This will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly creamy, irresistibly cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this video demonstration will guide you through the process, making sure you achieve that perfect balance of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and luscious garlic cream sauce. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a show-stopping and comforting side dish, ready to impress your family and friends!
Pin
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 oz bacon cut into strips
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 lbs brussel sprouts washed, trim bottoms and cut sprouts in half
- 1 pinch salt to season
- 1 pinch pepper to season
- 5 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups light cream or heavy cream, thickened cream
- 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch slurry mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 1/3 cup mozzarella fresh shredded or grated
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese fresh shredded or grated
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F | 190°C. This ensures your oven is perfectly ready for the final cheesy bake, allowing the dish to finish cooking and brown beautifully.
-
In a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron for even heating and a great sear), fry the bacon strips over medium heat until they are perfectly golden and irresistibly crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess fat, and set it aside. This keeps the bacon perfectly crisp for adding back in later.
-
Carefully drain most of the bacon fat from the skillet, leaving just 1–2 tablespoons. This precious fat will infuse our Brussels sprouts with incredible flavor. Now, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan over medium heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts, cut-side down, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear). Season them generously with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes without disturbing, until the cut edges are beautifully golden and slightly charred.
-
Stir in the finely chopped garlic, cooking for just 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Then, pour in the 1 1/2 cups of light cream (or your preferred cream, like heavy cream), stirring gently to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sprouts to become tender and absorb the rich, creamy garlic sauce.
-
If you prefer a thicker sauce, now is the time to add the cornstarch slurry (1 1/2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Stir it through immediately and continuously until the sauce thickens to your liking. This step is optional but highly recommended for a truly luscious consistency that coats the sprouts beautifully.
-
Return the reserved crispy bacon to the pan and gently mix it through the sprouts and sauce. Then, generously top the entire dish with the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese, ensuring an even layer for a perfect cheesy crust.
-
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly, fully melted, and starting to turn golden brown. For an extra browned and crispy cheese topping, you can carefully switch to the broiler for 2–3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it during this stage, as broilers can brown very quickly!
-
Remove from the oven, and if desired, finish with an extra sprinkle of fresh ground black pepper. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a touch of freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and delicious side dish!
Notes
A few extra tips I’ve picked up since first sharing this recipe back in 2017 to ensure your dish is always a showstopper:
- Embrace the Fond: Make sure to scrape up all those golden browned bits (the “fond”) from the bottom of the pan after searing the sprouts. These bits are packed with concentrated flavor that will deeply enrich your creamy sauce.
- Custom Creaminess: Want an even richer and thicker sauce? Don’t hesitate to add a splash more heavy cream or a bit more cheese. You can also let it simmer a minute or two longer to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors and texture.
- Add a Kick or Zest: For a delightful zing, sprinkle in some red chili flakes with the garlic, or finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of lemon zest just before serving. This brightens all the rich flavors beautifully.
- Herb Power: Fresh herbs like finely chopped thyme, rosemary, or even chives can be added with the garlic or sprinkled on top at the end. They elevate the aromatic profile and add a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.