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If you are on the hunt for a side dish that’s packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of indulgence, look no further than this Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe. This recipe transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a golden, crunchy delight, enhanced by smoky, crisp bacon bits and luxuriously coated in a tangy, creamy mustard sauce. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and comforting that will have everyone reaching for seconds — or even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by how simple this ingredient list looks. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish so irresistible. From the fresh, verdant Brussels sprouts to the rich cream and flavorful mustards, every ingredient shines through.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved: Fresh sprouts provide that essential crunch and slightly bitter base that roasts beautifully.
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped: Adds smoky, crispy bits that infuse savory depth into every bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to crisp up the Brussels sprouts and brings a subtle fruity flavor.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that elevate and balance the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy element that softens and enriches the dish.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Offers a smooth, slightly spicy mustard punch to the sauce.
- 1 tsp whole grain mustard: Adds texture and a burst of tangy flavor from the mustard seeds.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Provides a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
How to Make Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) for perfect roasting heat. Toss those halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly. This simple oil and seasoning step is the secret to getting that irresistibly crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until their edges turn beautifully caramelized and crisp. This roasting step transforms the sprouts from bitter and tough to nutty and addictive.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy
While the sprouts are roasting, cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s wonderfully crisp. This bacon will add irresistible smoky crunch that’s essential to the dish’s character. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess fat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream along with the Dijon and whole grain mustard. Stir the mixture gently and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly, developing rich, tangy flavor that complements the savory bacon and roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the sauce is ready, toss the sprouts with crispy bacon pieces, then drizzle the creamy mustard sauce over everything. This combination brings together all the textures and flavors in a harmonious, mouthwatering way.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Finish off your Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top. The parsley adds brightness and a lovely color contrast that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect warm, crispy, and creamy experience.
How to Serve Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley are ideal for garnishing this dish, providing vibrancy and a fresh finish. For an extra pop, you might sprinkle some toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or even a few shreds of sharp Parmesan to elevate the savory notes.
Side Dishes
This crispy Brussels sprouts dish makes a fantastic side for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a holiday ham. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf, balancing hearty mains with its brightness and textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Brussels sprouts in a rustic cast iron skillet right at the table for a cozy, inviting presentation. Alternatively, pile them high on a platter and garnish liberally with mustard sauce drizzles and crispy bacon. For a party, serve them as a warm appetizer in small bowls, allowing guests to help themselves to this crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mustard sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
While the Brussels sprouts and bacon combo can be frozen, the creamy mustard sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best to freeze the roasted sprouts and bacon alone in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months, then prepare a fresh mustard sauce upon reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat Brussels sprouts and bacon in a skillet over medium heat to refresh the crispiness. Warm up the mustard sauce separately on low heat and then combine everything just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for roasting evenly and achieving the best crispiness, you can use frozen if needed. Just thaw and dry them thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the mustard sauce?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as a substitute, though heavy cream gives the richest and creamiest result that balances the bitterness of the sprouts perfectly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or smoked salt to mimic the smoky flavor. You can also add toasted nuts for extra texture and savoriness.
What other mustards work in the creamy sauce?
Dijon and whole grain mustards create a wonderful balance, but you could experiment with spicy brown mustard or honey mustard for a different flavor twist.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a dinner party?
Yes! Roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon ahead of time, then warm everything and make the mustard sauce fresh just before serving to keep it tasting vibrant and freshly made.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about the perfect combination of crispy, smoky, and creamy flavors in this Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a veggie side that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features crispy roasted Brussels sprouts combined with savory bacon and a rich, creamy mustard sauce. Perfect as a flavorful side dish, the Brussels sprouts are roasted to golden perfection and complemented by a tangy sauce made from Dijon and whole grain mustard, finished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
Meat
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp whole grain mustard
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare Brussels sprouts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat them for roasting.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts: Spread the prepared Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until they become golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cook the bacon: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, place chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crisp and browned. Remove the bacon and drain excess fat on paper towels.
- Make the creamy mustard sauce: Reduce the heat to low in the same skillet with any bacon drippings. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine sprouts, bacon, and sauce: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, toss them with the crisp bacon pieces. Drizzle the warm mustard sauce over the mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm for a delicious and comforting side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option if preferred.
- Fresh parsley enhances flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest sauce texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in an oven to maintain crispiness.
