Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara: A Cozy Journey Through Comfort Food
There’s something truly enchanting about the alchemy of cooking—a simple twist of ingredients can transport you back to cherished moments spent in the company of loved ones. The sight of steaming pasta dressed in a creamy sauce brings back memories of family gatherings around a rustic wooden table, where laughter and stories intertwine with the aroma of a homemade meal. Today, I’m thrilled to share a delightful twist on a classic dish: Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara. This recipe encapsulates everything we love about comfort food with an indulgent touch that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara not only warms your belly but also your heart. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire:
- Delicious Flavors: The earthy, nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts blends beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce and crispy pancetta.
- Easy to Prepare: With a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect even for fearless beginners in the kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This unique twist on a classic will impress friends and family alike, making it a go-to for gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing just a few wholesome ingredients means you can make a delightful meal without breaking the bank.
- Comforting Dish: A cozy bowl of pasta carbonara is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or festive get-togethers.
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara:
- 8 oz. spaghetti (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved and thinly sliced
- 4 oz. pancetta or bacon, diced (or swap with turkey bacon for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (try Pecorino for a sharper flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
This Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara is perfect for a quick dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to dive into the delicious world of pasta? Let’s get started!
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Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a touch of olive oil and add the diced pancetta. Sauté for about 5 minutes until golden and crispy, then remove from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, add the sliced Brussels sprouts and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The nutty aroma will fill your kitchen.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Slowly stir in ÂĽ cup of reserved pasta water until combined. This will create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully.
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Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with Brussels sprouts, followed by the crispy pancetta. Remove from heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy coating. The residual heat will cook the eggs just enough to ensure a luscious sauce.
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Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency.
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Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with chopped parsley for a fresh finish and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Variations and Twists
Let your creativity shine! Here are some fun modifications you can make to the Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara:
- Veggie Boost: Add in other veggies, like peas or asparagus, for extra color and nutrients.
- Herbed Delight: Introduce fresh herbs such as thyme or basil for a fragrant touch.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Feel free to mix it up—this recipe is a canvas for your culinary artistry!
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters, especially when sharing with loved ones. Serve your Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara in warm bowls, topped with a sprinkle of parsley and an extra grating of cheese. Pair with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners at home or festive gatherings where you want to impress without overwhelming yourself.
Storage and Reheating
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (a rarity in my home!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce and preserve the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in a bowl with a little water to keep it moist.
Kitchen Tips for Success
Here are a few insider tips to ensure your Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara turns out fabulously:
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality eggs and cheese for the best creamy texture.
- Timing is Key: Mix the egg sauce only off the heat to prevent scrambling; the residual warmth will cook the eggs perfectly.
- Pasta Perfection: Don’t overcook your pasta! Al dente is key for a satisfying bite.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work well.
- Can I make this meal ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the Brussels and pancetta ahead for quicker assembly.
- Are there alternatives to pancetta? Yes! Bacon, turkey bacon, or even a smoky plant-based option can substitute nicely.
Conclusion
Cooking is about bringing joy to our lives, and I hope this Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara recipe brings warmth to your kitchen as it has to mine. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience to share with family and friends. I encourage you to gather around the table, savor each bite, and make new memories over this heartwarming meal. Happy cooking!
Contents
Brussels Sprouts Pasta Carbonara
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved and thinly sliced
Protein
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced or swap with turkey bacon for a healthier option
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese try Pecorino for a sharper flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a touch of olive oil and add the diced pancetta. Sauté for about 5 minutes until golden and crispy, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced Brussels sprouts and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Create the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Slowly stir in ÂĽ cup of reserved pasta water until combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with Brussels sprouts, followed by the crispy pancetta. Remove from heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy coating.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency.
Serving
- Plate the pasta, garnishing with chopped parsley for a fresh finish and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest