These Sauteed Brussels Sprouts in Carbonara Sauce are a true indulgence, with crispy bacon adding a savory crunch to the creamy, cheesy sauce. The Brussels sprouts are sautéed until golden and tender, then coated in a rich carbonara sauce that combines eggs, Parmesan, and heavy cream for an irresistibly creamy texture. This dish combines all the best elements of comfort food—vegetables, bacon, and a decadent sauce.
Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make but feels fancy enough to impress your guests. The creamy carbonara sauce pairs beautifully with the earthy Brussels sprouts, while the crispy bacon brings just the right amount of savory goodness. It’s an ideal dish for anyone craving a flavorful, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare but full of taste.
Full Recipe:
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500g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 cup pancetta or bacon, chopped
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tbsp butter
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
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Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to caramelize.
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Add the minced garlic and butter, stirring for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
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While the Brussels sprouts cook, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
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Once the Brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown, pour the egg and cream mixture into the skillet over the Brussels sprouts, stirring quickly to create a creamy carbonara sauce.
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Add the cooked pancetta or bacon back to the skillet, mixing to combine.
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Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Sauteed Brussels Sprouts in Carbonara Sauce: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, but when cooked the right way, they become a delightful and flavorful addition to any meal. One of the most delicious ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts is by sautéing them and pairing them with a creamy carbonara sauce. The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts and rich carbonara sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. This dish is not only a perfect side but can also stand on its own as a main course, offering a delightful balance of savory, creamy, and slightly smoky flavors.
Why Choose Brussels Sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain compounds that promote detoxification and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Despite their somewhat bitter taste when raw, Brussels sprouts become tender and sweet when cooked, making them a great option for many dishes. When combined with the rich carbonara sauce, they transform into a deliciously savory side dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
The Creamy Carbonara Sauce
The beauty of this recipe lies in the carbonara sauce, which is both rich and creamy, thanks to the combination of eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Traditionally, carbonara sauce is made with eggs and cheese, but for this variation, the addition of cream adds an extra layer of smoothness and indulgence. The sauce coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully, creating a creamy texture that complements the slightly crisp edges of the sautéed vegetables. The salty pancetta or bacon enhances the flavor of the sauce, making each bite a deliciously satisfying experience.
How to Make the Most of Brussels Sprouts
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the amount of Brussels sprouts you use based on the number of servings you need. If you’re serving this dish as a side, a smaller portion of Brussels sprouts will suffice, but if you’re making it the main event, feel free to add more sprouts for a heartier serving. Additionally, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences. You can swap out the pancetta or bacon for turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. The Brussels sprouts themselves can be roasted or sautéed, depending on your texture preference.
The Role of Pancetta or Bacon
While Brussels sprouts are the star of the dish, the pancetta or bacon plays a key supporting role in this recipe. The bacon adds a deliciously smoky flavor and crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender Brussels sprouts. The rendered fat from the bacon also infuses the Brussels sprouts with a savory depth of flavor as they sauté in the pan. You can choose to go with crispy pancetta for a traditional carbonara flavor, or opt for bacon if you want a heartier, more robust taste. Both options bring a unique element to the dish.
Making It a Complete Meal
While this dish is often served as a side, it has the potential to be the centerpiece of your meal. For a more filling dish, you can easily add some protein to the recipe. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a poached egg on top can elevate the dish and transform it into a main course. You could also serve it alongside some pasta or mashed potatoes for a complete, comforting meal. The creamy sauce and savory vegetables pair well with a variety of sides, making this dish incredibly versatile and adaptable to your needs.
A Healthier Take on a Classic
Although carbonara is traditionally made with pasta, this version with Brussels sprouts offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. The Brussels sprouts provide fiber and essential vitamins, while the creamy sauce adds richness and indulgence. By using high-quality Parmesan cheese and a minimal amount of heavy cream, you can keep the dish relatively light while still enjoying the creamy, comforting texture that carbonara is known for. If you want to make it even lighter, you can use a lower-fat cream or opt for a dairy-free version of the sauce using coconut cream.
The Perfect Side for Any Occasion
This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party. The sautéed Brussels sprouts in carbonara sauce bring a sense of sophistication to the table without requiring too much effort in the kitchen. The combination of textures—crispy Brussels sprouts, creamy sauce, and crispy pancetta—makes for a truly delightful bite every time. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive holiday meal, this dish is sure to impress.
How to Customize the Dish
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. There are many ways to make it your own, depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, you can simply omit the bacon and use a vegetarian Parmesan alternative. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings—fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of nutmeg can add a unique twist to the flavors. For a lighter sauce, try using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, keeping the richness of the dish while making it more suitable for various diets.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy carbonara sauce and balances the richness of the dish. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir would work well, offering just the right amount of acidity to cut through the creaminess. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon to refresh the palate between bites. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also pair nicely, providing a contrast to the richness of the Brussels sprouts and carbonara sauce.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Savoring
Sauteed Brussels sprouts in carbonara sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the indulgent richness of carbonara sauce. Whether you enjoy it as a side or make it the main event of your meal, this dish is sure to impress. With its versatility and customizable elements, it’s a recipe that can be adjusted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. The combination of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender Brussels sprouts creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover just how tasty and comforting Brussels sprouts can be!