Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, cut into halves
8 oz. bacon, cooked until crisp and then crumbled
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated fontina cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large egg
1 sprig minced rosemary
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 400º F (204º C). This high temperature will help to start roasting the Brussels sprouts, bringing out their natural sweetness and reducing bitterness.
Brussels Sprouts Preparation
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and cut each one in half. Toss the halved sprouts in a large mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts evenly in a large baking dish. Ensure they are in a single layer to promote even roasting. Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the sprouts are partially tender and start to caramelize at the edges.
Cheese Mixture
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, crack one large egg into a mixing bowl. Add 3/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 sprig of minced rosemary, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they form a smooth, creamy mixture.
Incorporate the Cheeses: Fold in 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated fontina cheese into the cream mixture. The cheeses will start to blend with the cream, creating a rich, cheesy base for the gratin.
Assembling the Gratin
Add Bacon and Cheese Mixture: Once the Brussels sprouts are partially roasted, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle 3/4 of the cooked, crumbled bacon over the Brussels sprouts. Pour the prepared cheese and cream mixture over the top. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir and combine the ingredients, ensuring the Brussels sprouts are well-coated with the cheesy mixture.
Final Touches and Baking
Prepare for Final Baking: Scatter the remaining bacon pieces over the top of the gratin for added crunch and flavor. Lower the oven temperature to 350º F (177º C). Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly, while the gratin sets and develops a golden crust.
Serving
Cool and Serve: Once the gratin is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the dish set, making it easier to serve. Use a large spoon to scoop out portions of the gratin, ensuring each serving has a good mix of Brussels sprouts, bacon, and creamy cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a different cheese profile, you can substitute the cheddar and fontina with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Healthier Options: For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.
Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can add more flavor by incorporating sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
Spice Adjustments: If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
Conclusion
Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin is a versatile and delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, making it suitable for various occasions from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences and taste. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking to try something new, this gratin is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making and, more importantly, eating this delicious creation!
