Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The Ultimate Comfort Side Dish

Brussels sprouts have had a bad reputation for far too long, but once you try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, you’ll never look at them the same way again. This dish turns simple Brussels sprouts into a rich, cheesy, and savory masterpiece with crispy bacon, a luscious garlic cream sauce, and a touch of melted mozzarella and Parmesan.

Whether you’re making this for a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just a comforting weeknight side, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Even the pickiest eaters will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is more than just another way to eat Brussels sprouts—it’s a flavor explosion. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• Rich and Creamy – The garlic-infused cream sauce is smooth and velvety.
• Crispy and Smoky – Bacon adds the perfect crunchy contrast.
• Cheesy Goodness – Mozzarella and Parmesan create a golden, bubbly finish.
• Easy to Make – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great as a holiday side or a comfort food indulgence.

Now, let’s gather the ingredients and get started!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Here’s everything you need to make this deliciously creamy Brussels sprouts recipe:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	US Measurement	Metric Measurement
Bacon (cut into strips)	10 ounces	285g
Butter	2 tablespoons	30g
Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)	2 pounds	900g
Salt	1 pinch	To taste
Black pepper	1 pinch	To taste
Garlic (finely chopped)	5 cloves	5 cloves
Light or heavy cream (thickened cream)	1 ½ cups	375ml
Cornstarch slurry (optional)	1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water	4g cornstarch + 15ml water
Mozzarella cheese (fresh, shredded or grated)	⅓ cup	80g
Parmesan cheese (fresh, shredded or grated)	¼ cup	60g

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon strips until crispy.
• Remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.

2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

• In the same skillet, melt butter in the bacon fat over medium heat.
• Add the Brussels sprouts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned and softened (5–7 minutes).

3. Add the Garlic

• Stir in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

• Pour in the cream, stirring well to combine.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce begins to thicken.

5. Add the Cheese

• Reduce the heat to low and mix in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Stir gently until the cheese melts into the sauce.

6. Finish with Bacon and Serve

• Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot and creamy!

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Try serving it with:

• Grilled Steak – The creaminess balances out the bold flavors of a juicy steak.
• Roast Chicken or Turkey – A perfect holiday side dish.
• Garlic Butter Salmon – Enhances the rich flavors of seafood.
• Mashed Cauliflower or Potatoes – A cozy, comfort-food combination.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Dish

1. Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts

Look for bright green, firm sprouts without yellowing or soft spots for the best texture and flavor.

2. Use Heavy Cream for Extra Richness

If you want an ultra-luxurious sauce, opt for heavy cream instead of light cream.

3. Roast the Brussels Sprouts for More Flavor

For a caramelized touch, roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes before adding them to the skillet.

4. Adjust the Cheese to Your Liking

• Swap mozzarella for Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
• Increase the Parmesan for a sharper taste.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent curdling.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~400 kcal
Protein	15g
Fat	34g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything except the cheese, then reheat and stir in the cheese just before serving.

2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

3. How can I make this dish keto-friendly?

It’s already low-carb and keto-friendly, but to make it even better, skip the cornstarch and use only heavy cream.

4. Can I bake this dish instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

Absolutely! After combining all ingredients, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.

5. What’s the best substitute for bacon?

If you don’t eat pork, try turkey bacon or chopped pancetta.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Mushrooms, onions, or spinach would be delicious additions.

Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Brussels Sprouts Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is guaranteed to convert even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics. With its crispy bacon, rich cheese sauce, and tender Brussels sprouts, it’s a dish that delivers on flavor and comfort.

Try it tonight and experience the magic for yourself!

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