If you’re looking for a healthy comfort food side dish that’s as indulgent as it is nutritious, Brussels Sprouts in Alfredo Sauce is your new best friend. This recipe takes humble Brussels sprouts and dresses them in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce that’s rich, velvety, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re craving easy weeknight dinners or searching for a budget-friendly recipe that elevates your veggie game, this dish fits the bill beautifully.
The creamy Alfredo coating brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts while adding an elegant touch perfect for everything from casual family meals to festive holiday spreads. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable, whether you want to keep it vegetarian, add a protein punch, or serve it with pasta for a high protein high carb low fat meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to whip up, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, and turns a classic green veggie into a rich and indulgent treat. The creamy Parmesan sauce is silky and comforting without being heavy, making it a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables onto everyone’s plates.
If you’re into meal prep microwave lunches or best dinner prep meals, this recipe stores well and reheats beautifully, ensuring your healthy eating stays effortless all week long.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The secret to this dish is the creamy Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan that lovingly coats each tender Brussels sprout half. The garlic adds depth and warmth, while the Parmesan brings a nutty richness that elevates the flavor beyond your typical vegetable side.
Cooking the Brussels sprouts in bacon fat adds a savory undertone and irresistible crisp edges, but the recipe also offers a vegetarian version that’s just as delicious using butter or olive oil.
Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness, making each bite fresh and satisfying. The optional touches like nutmeg or Dijon mustard add complexity if you want to take it up a notch.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 oz halal bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Pinch of nutmeg or Dijon mustard for extra flavor
- Cooked pasta for a hearty main dish
How to Make It Step-by-Step
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, leaving about 3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- Add Brussels sprouts to the skillet with reserved fat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook 8–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and golden brown on the edges.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and add lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and continue cooking 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the sprouts beautifully.
- Return bacon to the pan (if using) and mix everything together.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if you like.
Tips for Best Results
- Parboiling Brussels sprouts briefly before sautéing can ensure perfect tenderness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor and smoothest sauce.
- Don’t rush cooking the cream; simmer gently to avoid curdling.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of cream and milk.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Skip bacon for a vegetarian dish, using butter or olive oil instead.
- For a protein boost, stir in grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
- Make it keto-friendly by serving without pasta or over cauliflower rice.
- Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions for more depth.
- Use vegan cream and Parmesan alternatives to make this vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy Brussels sprouts alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a simple pasta for a complete high protein meal plan. A fresh arugula salad or steamed green beans balance the richness perfectly. For meals for two delivered or small gatherings, pair with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
- Sparkling water with lemon refreshes the palate between bites.
- A light herb vinaigrette salad brightens the table.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and keep it silky.
Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate and change texture.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare completely, cool, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Reheat with care to maintain creaminess. Freezing isn’t recommended, but you can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts separately and prepare the sauce fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Brussels sprouts makes them mushy; cook until just tender and golden.
- Avoid boiling cream; keep heat gentle to prevent curdling.
- Don’t skip seasoning—salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors.
- Use enough fat (bacon or butter) to get those deliciously crisp edges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh ones yield better texture. Thaw and drain frozen sprouts well before cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, especially if served without pasta or with low-carb alternatives.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with dairy-free versions.
Can I add pasta to make it a main dish?
Definitely. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce for a hearty meal.
How do I get the sauce to thicken perfectly?
Simmer the cream gently and stir in Parmesan gradually until creamy and thickened.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Grater for Parmesan cheese
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
This Brussels Sprouts in Alfredo Sauce recipe is a standout for anyone seeking easy weeknight dinners that feel indulgent yet wholesome. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy healthy eating for two or feed the whole family with a dish that’s full of flavor and comfort.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Brussels Sprouts in Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 oz halal bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- to taste salt and black pepper
- pinch nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving 3 tablespoons fat.
- Add Brussels sprouts to skillet with bacon fat. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 8-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden.
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice, bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return bacon to skillet, stir to combine and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.
