Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both quick and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of brussels sprouts, the savory crunch of bacon, and the vibrant freshness of pesto. It’s a recipe I turn to often, especially on those busy weeknights when time is short but good food is still a must. This dish is not just easy; it’s also packed with flavor, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

One of the best things about this recipe is how it can bring everyone together around the table. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or just enjoying a quiet night in with your family, this pasta dish will surely please every palate. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal that feels indulgent.
• Family-friendly: The combination of pasta, bacon, and pesto appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead potential: You can easily prep ingredients ahead of time for an even smoother cooking experience.
• Wholesome ingredients: With fresh brussels sprouts and zesty lemon juice, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile: You can customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

For the Pasta Dish

• 4 slices of bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 12 ounces brussels sprouts
• 1 clove garlic (grated or minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta shells or similar shape/size (gluten-free if needed)
• 3 tablespoons pesto
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the great things about Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a lighter twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a different texture and health boost.
• Make it nut-free: Replace traditional pesto with a sunflower seed pesto if you’re avoiding nuts.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. This step is important because perfectly cooked pasta forms the base of our dish. Once it’s al dente, drain it well!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While your pasta cooks, thinly slice those fresh brussels sprouts. You can use a sharp knife or even a food processor to save time. Slicing them helps them cook quickly and absorb all those delicious flavors later.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. The bacon adds a savory richness that complements the brussels sprouts beautifully. After cooking, drain it on paper towels and chop it into pieces once it’s cool enough to handle.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon, add just one tablespoon of grease back in (discarding any excess). This will infuse flavor into your brussels sprouts! Add them along with red pepper flakes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender—this step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for all those delicious components to come together! Add the chopped bacon back into the skillet along with your drained pasta, pesto, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined—this ensures every bite has that delightful flavor mix we love!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Taste your dish for seasoning before serving it up hot! Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent. This meal is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for quick leftovers too!

And there you have it—Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Making Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is a breeze with a few helpful tips up your sleeve!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying the flavors rather than scrambling for components.
• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts have a better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. Look for bright green, firm sprouts for the best results.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less red pepper flakes and gradually add more to taste. This way, you can control the spice while still enjoying that kick!
• Don’t skip on lemon juice: The acidity from the lemon balances out the richness of the bacon and pesto, making each bite refreshing and vibrant.
• Reserve some pasta water: If your pasta seems dry after mixing in all the ingredients, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps bring everything together beautifully.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation and pairing it perfectly with complementary flavors!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and an aromatic freshness.
• Extra parmesan cheese: A light shower of shredded parmesan not only enhances the visual appeal but also enriches the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with any pasta dish. Its buttery flavor complements the savory notes of your meal perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers add color and nutrition while enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
• Steamed Broccoli: This easy-to-make side offers a mild flavor that works well alongside your flavorful pasta. Plus, it adds a nice crunch!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta experience, making it not just a meal but an occasion! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Proper storage will keep your pasta fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your pasta, make sure it’s cooled completely first.
• Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help it heat evenly.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; avoid overheating to maintain texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape or use gluten-free pasta if needed. The cooking time may vary slightly, so just keep an eye on it.

How do I make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use plant-based bacon alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Can I prepare Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta in advance?

Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta as I am! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that come together quickly, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on it. Happy cooking!