If you're on the hunt for a quick yet delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti! With its perfect blend of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and al dente pasta, this Italian-inspired dish is a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of spaghetti, 4 strips of chopped bacon, 1 pound of halved Brussels sprouts, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and tender, stirring occasionally.
- When the Brussels sprouts are almost done, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and garlic.
- Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet along with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss everything together until well combined, allowing the spaghetti to absorb the flavors.
- Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Bacon Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your bacon and Brussels sprouts in advance. This way, you can quickly throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining your spaghetti! This starchy water helps to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles.
- Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the bacon. This will help render the fat more efficiently and give you that delightful crunch.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked, so add it to the skillet just a minute or two before you finish cooking the Brussels sprouts to keep its flavor fresh.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to add more Parmesan cheese or even experiment with other cheese varieties like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the Brussels sprouts for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: Serve your dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness that will elevate the presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
