Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when prepared the right way, they’re a true culinary gem. Enter the irresistible Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon —a dish that brings out the best in this humble vegetable. Imagine crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and a creamy, garlicky parmesan sauce that ties it all together. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a standout star on any table.

Whether you’re prepping for a holiday feast, and looking to impress at a potluck, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers rich flavor and creamy comfort in every bite. Let’s dive into exactly how to create this decadent side dish from scratch.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Want to take your Brussels sprouts to the next level? Follow these pro tips to master the recipe:

1. Choose Fresh, Small Sprouts

Smaller Brussels sprouts tend to be sweeter and less bitter. Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm and heavy for their size.

2. Don’t Overcook

Brussels sprouts can go from tender to mushy in no time. Keeping a close eye on them while cooking ensures they stay toothsome and delicious.

3. Let Them Sear

Placing the sprouts cut side down and allowing them to sear undisturbed for several minutes helps develop deep, caramelized flavor. Resist the urge to move them too early.

4. Use Real Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor than the pre-shredded kind. Always opt for the real deal.

5. Adjust the Creaminess

Prefer a thicker sauce? Simmer the cream a bit longer before adding the cheese. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or chicken broth.

Tasty Variations to Try

This recipe is delicious as-is, but here are a few ideas to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Make It Vegetarian

Skip the bacon and sauté the sprouts in a mix of olive oil and butter. For added texture, toss in toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans.

2. Add Mushrooms

Sauté sliced mushrooms with the sprouts for an earthy twist that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. Try a Cheese Blend

Mix Parmesan with Gruyère, Fontina, or sharp white cheddar for a more complex cheese sauce.

4. Spice It Up

Like it hot? Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne with the garlic.

5. Make It a Main

Turn this into a hearty main by adding diced cooked chicken or leftover turkey. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a full breakdown of everything required to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. These quantities serve approximately 4–6 people as a side dish.

Main Ingredients

1 ½ pounds (about 700g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped into small pieces
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra crispy bacon crumbles
Grated lemon zest, for brightness

FAQs Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but fresh ones give the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, let them thaw completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. Keep in mind they may not crisp up as nicely as fresh ones.

2. Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can make it dairy-free by swapping the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor.

3. How do I make this recipe keto or low-carb?

Great news—this dish is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly! Just make sure your cream and Parmesan have no added starches or fillers. Skip any additions like bread crumbs or pasta to keep it keto.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a day ahead. Cook everything, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.

5. What kind of bacon works best?

Thick-cut bacon adds a nice chewy texture and smoky flavor, but you can use any kind you like. Turkey bacon or pancetta are great alternatives too.

6. Can I bake the Brussels sprouts instead of pan-searing them?

Yes! Roast the halved Brussels sprouts at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes until golden, then toss them into the cream sauce with the cooked bacon. This method is great if you’re making a large batch or prefer less hands-on time.

7. How do I avoid the sauce from becoming too thick or too runny?

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the cheese. If it becomes too thick, stir in a little milk, broth, or cream until it loosens up to your liking.

8. Are Brussels sprouts bitter, and how can I reduce that?

They can be slightly bitter, especially if overcooked. Searing or roasting helps bring out their natural sweetness. The creamy sauce and bacon also balance out any bitterness beautifully.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Just leave out the bacon and sauté the sprouts in olive oil and butter. You can also add toasted nuts or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

10. How long do leftovers last, and how do I reheat them?

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of cream or milk, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce can separate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends off the Brussels sprouts and removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then slice each sprout in half. This step ensures even cooking and helps the sprouts absorb more of that creamy sauce.

2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until the pieces are golden and crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet and discard any excess.

3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, place the Brussels sprouts cut side down. Let them sear for 5–7 minutes without stirring, allowing them to brown and caramelize. Then toss and cook for another 3–4 minutes until they are tender but still have a bit of bite.

4: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

5: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6: Combine Bacon and Sprouts

Return the crispy bacon to the pan and gently stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for another minute or two so all the flavors can meld beautifully.

7: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, or even a touch of lemon zest for a fresh finish.

Conservation and Storage

One of the best things about this dish is that it holds up well for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storage

Let the dish cool completely before storing.
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce if needed.
Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until hot.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish due to the dairy content. Cream sauces often separate and become grainy after freezing and thawing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a wide variety of mains and sides. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:

As a Side Dish

Roast Chicken or Turkey: The creamy, savory sprouts complement poultry perfectly, especially during the holidays.
Grilled or Pan-Seared Steak: A rich side like this stands up well to hearty cuts of meat.
Pork Tenderloin or Chops: The slightly bitter sprouts and salty bacon balance pork’s natural sweetness.

Brunch Item

Serve with poached eggs and toast for a decadent, savory brunch option.
Add to a frittata or omelet for a creamy, flavor-packed filling.

Comfort Food Bowl

Spoon over buttery mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting dinner.
Mix with pasta and extra cheese to create a luxurious Brussels sprout mac and cheese.

A Dish That Wins Everyone Over

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the kind of dish that converts skeptics into fans. It’s savory, creamy, crispy, and comforting all at once. Thanks to the combination of bacon, garlic, and parmesan, the sometimes-misunderstood Brussels sprout gets a gourmet makeover that’s both elegant and approachable.

Whether you’re planning a holiday meal, a dinner party, or a simple family dinner, this dish brings flavor, warmth, and versatility to your table. Feel free to get creative with variations, and don’t be surprised when people come back for seconds.