Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti
Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and unique twists on classic dishes, then Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti is about to become your new favorite. This recipe combines the creamy, umami goodness of Parmesan cheese with the crispy crunch of bacon and the hearty, nutritious touch of Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish brings together flavors and textures in a way that’s sure to impress.
Preparation
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
- Trim and Halve: Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or wilted leaves. Slice each sprout in half for even cooking.
- Season: Toss the Brussels sprouts with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Cooking the Bacon
- Cook Until Crisp: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Cooking Method
Combining Ingredients
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet used for the bacon, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the Brussels sprouts until they are golden brown and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Bacon: Add the cooked spaghetti and bacon to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Toss everything together to combine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix and Toss: If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the spaghetti with the flavors. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
- Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space for the Brussels sprouts to get crispy.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce and make it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Best Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side complements the pasta perfectly.
- Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top before serving.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with mushrooms or another plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Making it Vegetarian or Gluten-Free
- Cheese: For a vegetarian option, ensure the Parmesan is made without animal rennet or use a vegetarian cheese.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content
A typical serving of Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on portion size and ingredient quantities.
Health Benefits
- Brussels Sprouts: Packed with vitamins and fiber, they offer numerous health benefits.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a good source of protein and calcium.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
- Cool Quickly: Allow the dish to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Reheating Methods
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally.
Tips and Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Brussels Sprouts: They should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, not mushy.
- Pasta Timing: Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s very crispy to add a nice texture contrast to the dish.
- Adjust Cheese: Taste and adjust the amount of Parmesan based on your preference for a cheesier or lighter flavor.
Conclusion
Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti is a delightful and unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. With its crispy bacon, creamy Parmesan, and hearty Brussels sprouts, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the blend of textures and tastes that make this dish truly special!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pasta for a kick of heat.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving.
4. What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?
Try using sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative.
5. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist and the cheese creamy.
Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti
Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and unique twists on classic dishes, then Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti is about to become your new favorite. This recipe combines the creamy, umami goodness of Parmesan cheese with the crispy crunch of bacon and the hearty, nutritious touch of Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish brings together flavors and textures in a way that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and outer yellow leaves removed*
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 8 ounces bacon (or sub turkey bacon)
- 10 ounces spaghetti, feel free to use gluten free or whole grain pasta
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup reserved pasta water
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, if desired
Instructions
First, shred the brussels sprouts by using a food processor with the slicing attachment and pulse until the brussels sprouts are thinly sliced. If you don’t have a food processor, feel free to use a sharp knife to thinly slice. Set aside. You can prep the brussels up to 2-3 days ahead of time, if you’d like.
Next, add bacon to a large skillet or pan and place over medium heat, cook bacon on both sides until golden brown. If the pan starts to smoke at any point, simply lower the heat. I always cook my bacon on medium to medium low heat. Once bacon is done cooking, you can set aside to cool, blot with a paper towel to absorb excess grease and then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Add oil to a large pan or skillet and place over medium-high heat. Add in shredded brussels sprouts, season with salt and pepper and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently until tender and slightly golden brown. Remove from heat once done.
While the brussels cook, place a large pot of water over high heat and add in a generous amount of salt. Once the water boils, stir in the pasta and cook until al dente. Once pasta is done cooking, reserve ⅓ cup of pasta water and set aside, then drain pasta in a colander and transfer pasta back to the pot.
Immediately stir in the parmesan cheese, reserved pasta water, garlic powder, shredded brussels, chopped bacon, and salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with red pepper flakes, if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
To store: store any leftover bacon brussels sprouts spaghetti in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat simply do so in a microwave safe dish.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 495