Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Heartwarming Comfort Food
There’s a special magic that happens in the kitchen when the scent of bacon dancing in the pan mingles with the earthy aroma of Brussels sprouts. It’s the kind of energy that fills your home with warmth and your heart with nostalgia. Growing up, my family always found joy in simple dishes that brought everyone together, and today, I’m thrilled to share a personal favorite: Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This delightful dish is more than just a quick dinner idea; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort, perfectly capturing that cozy feeling of sharing a homemade meal with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavors: The crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes create an irresistible combination that will have you coming back for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive side for gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress, making it an excellent choice for celebrations or cozy dinners alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Using a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
- Comforting: There’s something wonderfully satisfying about digging into a bowl of pasta that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (I prefer fettuccine, but any shape works)
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped (you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or swap with kale for a stronger flavor)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (look for those packed in oil for added richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (for depth, use homemade if possible)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pretty garnish)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not only quick but also the kind of meal you can make ahead and savor for later!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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Sizzle the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes, and let the lovely aroma envelop your kitchen. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
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Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté in the bacon grease, allowing them to caramelize, about 5–6 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden color.
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Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, knowing you’re building layers of flavor. Sauté for another 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
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Bring It All Together: Pour in the reserved pasta water and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and toss everything together until well combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Variations and Twists
Feel free to get playful with this Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes! Here are a few ideas:
- Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Try Different Veggies: Apart from Brussels sprouts, asparagus or broccoli make lovely substitutes.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add wonderful heat to the dish.
- Go Vegan: Swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering! Serve it warm, perhaps with a simple mixed green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. For a festive treat, pair it with roasted vegetables and a crusty loaf of bread. The comforting flavors truly shine at holiday dinners when shared with the people you love the most.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining Brussels Sprouts Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the goodness again, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality pasta and fresh Brussels sprouts; they make all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Bacon: Let it crisp up nicely for the best texture and taste.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure you’re creating a flavor you love.
- Pasta Water Power: Don’t underestimate the importance of reserved pasta water; it’s full of starch that helps bind the sauce.
FAQs
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Can I use other greens instead of Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Kale or even spinach can work beautifully if you prefer a milder taste. -
Is this meal ready for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. -
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves about 4, depending on portion size and your hunger levels!
Conclusion
Every forkful of Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a reminder of how food can bring joy and warmth to our lives. It’s a dish that transcends seasons—a new family favorite that invites laughter, stories, and love around the dinner table. I invite you to gather your loved ones, cook up this comforting meal, and create your own delicious memories. Happy cooking!
Contents
Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (preferably fettuccine) Any shape works
- 4 slices bacon, chopped Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved Kale can be swapped for a stronger flavor
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned Look for those packed in oil for added richness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced The more, the merrier!
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth Use homemade for more depth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped For a pretty garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cooking the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes, then remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté in the bacon grease until caramelized, about 5–6 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden color.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, and sauté for another 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
Bringing It All Together
- Pour in the reserved pasta water and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon, tossing everything together until well combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.