Get ready to transform your boring side dish into a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This Jalapeno Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin is not your grandmother's vegetable recipe - it's a bold, creamy, and irresistibly indulgent dish that turns humble Brussels sprouts into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine crispy caramelized sprouts, smoky bacon, spicy jalapenos, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce all baked to golden perfection - this is the side dish that will steal the show at any meal!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 jalapeno, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and position a rack in the middle of the oven.
- Wash Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim the ends, then slice each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with bacon drippings, sauté halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down for 4-5 minutes until they begin to caramelize and develop a golden brown color.
- Mince the jalapeno pepper, removing seeds for less heat if desired. Add minced jalapeno to the Brussels sprouts and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts and jalapeno mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading them evenly.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle over the Brussels sprouts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the cream and cheese mixture evenly over the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the gratin to set.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnishing with additional fresh cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, choose fresh Brussels sprouts and cook them cut-side down to achieve perfect caramelization. • Remove jalapeno seeds if you prefer a milder heat level, or keep them in for an extra spicy kick. • Use thick-cut bacon for more substantial bacon crumbles and richer flavor. • Make sure to drain excess bacon grease before adding sprouts to prevent a greasy dish. • Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier. • For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a reduced-fat cheese. • Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F for even cooking and that perfect golden-brown top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
