Brussel sprouts get a bad rap. Most of us probably have a memory from childhood of trying to eat raw brussels sprouts—and really not being into it. Still, brussels sprouts are an underrated vegetable that can be absolutely delicious when prepared correctly. Another well-known cooking fact is that bacon makes almost everything better—so with that in mind, why not combine the two?
That’s right, this recipe is for bacon brussels sprouts au gratin and it is truly one of the best things we’ve tasted in a long time. The earthy flavor of crispy sprouts combined with bacon and cheese is sure to have your family begging for more.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 pounds of halved brussels sprouts
- 8 ounces of cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of fontina cheese, grated (optional)
- 3/4 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 egg
- 1 sprig of minced rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt
- pepper
Here’s what you do:
1. First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Then toss your brussels sprouts in olive oil and season them with salt and pepper, using a significant amount of each. Throw the sprouts in a big baking dish and roast them for 15 to 20 minutes. When they’re done, they should be partially softened.
2. In a separate bowl, combine your egg, heavy cream, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder and red pepper flakes. Whisk the entire mixture together before adding in your fontina and sharp cheddar cheeses as well. Mix it all up!
3. Take your brussels sprouts out of the oven and throw about three-quarters worth of your bacon on top of everything. Throw your cheese on top as well and stir it all together, then top the entire thing off with whatever is left of the bacon.
4. Now, turn your oven down to 350 degrees and put the baking dish back inside. Bake it for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese gets melted and bubbly. Once it’s done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool off for five minutes before serving!
Although this dish is simple and vegetable-based, the taste is as hearty and delicious as any recipe you’re likely to eat. The combination of flavors with the sprouts, cheese and bacon is sure to have your mouth watering and will definitely make you revisit your opinion about brussels sprouts!
Have you tried this recipe out yourself? Tell us what you think in the comments area below.
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