Name: Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4-6 strips thick cut bacon; 1.5 lb brussels sprouts (ends trimmed and cut in half lengthwise); 1/2 tsp kosher salt; Fresh cracked pepper; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp minced garlic (3-4 cloves); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Add a burst of flavor to your holiday table with these irresistible Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts. Imagine tender, perfectly charred Brussels sprouts coated in gooey mozzarella, infused with the rich flavor of garlic, and topped with crispy, savory bacon. This side dish is not only packed with flavor but also low-carb friendly, making it a deliciously satisfying option for everyone at the table. Best of all, it comes together in just under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love it:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday preparations.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of crispy bacon, garlic, and melty cheese elevates Brussels sprouts to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Low-Carb Friendly: Enjoy a satisfying, indulgent side dish without the extra carbs—ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a festive feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will be won over by the irresistible combination of cheesy, bacon goodness.

Ingredient Notes:

Brussels Sprouts: These small, leafy green vegetables are closely related to cabbages. Their flavor is earthy with a hint of sweetness, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes. In this recipe, they’re first pan-fried to achieve a delicious char, then roasted until tender for the perfect texture.
Bacon: The bacon adds a rich, savory, and salty flavor that perfectly complements the Brussels sprouts, elevating this side dish to something truly special.
Butter: You can use either salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference. It adds a luscious richness to the dish.
Minced Garlic: A must-have for this recipe, garlic infuses the sprouts with a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy, mild flavor that ties all the ingredients together in cheesy perfection.

Substitutions & Variations:

Cheese Swap: If you’d like a different flavor profile, swap out the mozzarella for sharp cheddar, gouda, or parmesan. Each brings its own unique taste while still melting beautifully.
Butternut Squash Addition: Add some cubed butternut squash to the mix for a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color. Roast the squash alongside the Brussels sprouts for a balanced combination of flavors and textures.
Herb Boost: Enhance the dish with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage. They’ll add an aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving, or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter when cooking the garlic.

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts:

Pan-Fry Bacon & Brussels:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- While the oven heats, place a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy, about 4-6 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Carefully pour off most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons behind. Add the cut Brussels sprouts and a pinch of kosher salt to the pan. Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat them evenly in the bacon grease, then spread them into a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-6 minutes, until they begin to char.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the pan, stirring until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant. Remove the pan from heat.
Bake & Finish:
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a lightly greased baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top the Brussels sprouts with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon. Return the pan to the oven and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Recipe Notes:

Even Cooking: For best results, try to cut the Brussels sprouts into similar sizes so they cook evenly. If you prefer smaller pieces, they will crisp up nicely.
Crispy Bacon: If you want extra crispy bacon, cook it a bit longer or place it on a rack over a baking sheet in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method allows the fat to drain off and can yield crispier results.
Bacon Grease: If you prefer to use less bacon grease, you can drain off most of it, leaving just enough to lightly coat the Brussels sprouts.
Butter Alternative: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter.
Garlic Flavor: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. You can also use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Oven-Only Method:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the cut Brussels sprouts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and nicely charred.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a separate pan or in the oven until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
- When the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

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