Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

A comforting French-inspired side dish full of flavor

Brussels sprouts are one of those vegetables that many people overlook because of their slightly bitter taste. But when cooked the right way – tender, creamy, and paired with smoky bacon – they become absolutely irresistible. This recipe for Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon (Choux de Bruxelles fondants à la crème et aux lardons) is a simple yet elegant dish that works beautifully as a side or even a light main meal.

 Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 500 g (about 1 lb) fresh Brussels sprouts
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
• 80 g (about 1 small) onion, finely chopped
• 150 g (5 oz) smoked bacon lardons (or diced bacon)
• 2 tablespoons thick crème fraîche (or heavy cream)
• A small knob of butter for cooking
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

 Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total: 35 minutes

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels sprouts

• Rinse the sprouts well under cold running water.
• Remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves.
• If the sprouts are large, cut them in half so they cook evenly.

2. Parboil to remove bitterness

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 8–10 minutes until just tender.
• Drain thoroughly and set aside. This step softens the sprouts and reduces bitterness.

3. Cook the bacon and onions

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small knob of butter.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
• Stir in the bacon lardons and fry until lightly crispy and fragrant.

4. Combine everything

• Add the drained Brussels sprouts to the skillet.
• Toss well so they soak up the smoky flavor of the bacon.
• Stir in the crème fraîche (or heavy cream) and season with freshly ground black pepper.
• Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes until coated in a creamy sauce.

5. Serve

• Serve immediately while hot.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra touch.

 Serving Suggestions

• As a side dish: Perfect with roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
• As a light main course: Pair with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
• Vegetarian twist: Skip the bacon and use sautéed mushrooms for a smoky, earthy flavor.

 Expert Tips for Best Results

1. Balancing flavor: Add a pinch of sugar to the boiling water if you want to further reduce the bitterness.
2. Extra creaminess: Stir in grated cheese such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or cheddar for a richer sauce.
3. Healthier swap: Replace crème fraîche with Greek yogurt for a lighter version that still feels creamy.

 Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

• Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and skin health.
• High in Vitamin K: Supports bone strength.
• Packed with fiber: Improves digestion and keeps you full longer.
• Antioxidant powerhouse: Protects the body against inflammation.

 Final Thoughts

This Creamy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a gourmet side dish full of flavor and texture. The smoky bacon, silky cream, and tender sprouts create the perfect balance – hearty, cozy, and satisfying. Whether you serve it for a holiday dinner or a quick weeknight meal, it’s a dish that will win over even the toughest Brussels sprout skeptics.