Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meal

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make weeknight dinner, look no further than Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta. This dish combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts, the smoky richness of bacon, and the vibrant freshness of pesto to create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and packed with flavor.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, share tips for making it even better, and explore why this dish is a must-try. Plus, we’ll dive into the nutritional benefits of the key ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. Let’s get started!

---

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

1. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Flavor-Packed: The combination of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and zesty pesto creates a symphony of flavors.
3. Versatile: You can easily customize this dish to suit your dietary needs, such as using gluten-free pasta or vegan pesto.
4. Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, and when paired with whole-grain pasta, this meal is both delicious and wholesome.

---

Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish (serves 4):

• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
• 12 ounces Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced or shredded
• 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta shells (or similar shape/size; gluten-free if needed)
• 3 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Reserve a small amount of pasta water (about 1/4 cup) to help create a silky sauce later.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. While the pasta cooks, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts using a sharp knife or a food processor with a shredding attachment.
2. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts available at most grocery stores.

---

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on paper towels.
3. Once cooled, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
4. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for cooking the Brussels sprouts. Discard the rest or save it for another use.

---

Step 4: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

1. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

---

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta, chopped bacon, pesto, lemon juice, and shredded parmesan cheese to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until well combined. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

---

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
2. Top with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

The Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts in Your Pasta

Brussels sprouts are the star ingredient in this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta recipe, and for good reason. These tiny, cabbage-like vegetables are packed with nutrients that make them a fantastic addition to any meal. Despite their small size, Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a wide range of health benefits that can boost your overall well-being.

First and foremost, Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system. Just one cup of cooked Brussels sprouts provides more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. This antioxidant helps protect your cells from damage, promotes healthy skin, and aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.

In addition to vitamin C, Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting. A single serving of Brussels sprouts can provide over 150% of your daily vitamin K needs, making them a great choice for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.

Another standout feature of Brussels sprouts is their high fiber content. Fiber is important for digestive health, as it helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation. It also helps you feel full longer, which can be beneficial for weight management. The fiber in Brussels sprouts also supports gut health by feeding the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system.

Brussels sprouts are also packed with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect your body from chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. They contain compounds like kaempferol, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

By incorporating Brussels sprouts into this pasta dish, you’re not only adding a delicious, earthy flavor but also boosting the nutritional value of your meal. Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts enthusiast or a skeptic, this recipe is a great way to enjoy their health benefits in a tasty and approachable way.

---

 Why Bacon and Pesto Are a Match Made in Heaven

When it comes to flavor combinations, few pairings are as irresistible as bacon and pesto. In this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta recipe, these two ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly satisfying. But what makes this duo so special? Let’s break it down.

Bacon brings a smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Its crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to the tender Brussels sprouts and pasta. Bacon also infuses the dish with its rich, savory juices, which enhance the overall flavor profile. When cooked, the bacon fat can be used to sauté the Brussels sprouts, adding an extra layer of depth to the dish.

Pesto, on the other hand, is a vibrant and herbaceous sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It adds a burst of freshness and brightness that balances the richness of the bacon. The garlic in the pesto complements the smoky bacon, while the basil adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.

Together, bacon and pesto create a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate this pasta dish to new heights. The smokiness of the bacon enhances the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, while the pesto adds a zesty, herbaceous note that ties everything together. This combination is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great base for a variety of dishes.

If you’re looking to experiment, you can try different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto, to add a unique twist to the recipe. You can also adjust the amount of bacon to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a bacon lover or a pesto enthusiast, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta Dish

Cooking pasta may seem simple, but there are a few key tips and tricks that can take your Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta from good to great. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these tips will help you achieve the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation.

1. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: The term “al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian and refers to pasta that is cooked until it’s firm but not hard. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture. To achieve al dente pasta, follow the cooking time on the package and taste-test a piece a minute or two before the recommended time.
2. Salt Your Pasta Water: Adding salt to the water before boiling your pasta is essential for enhancing its flavor. A general rule of thumb is to use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water. The salt infuses the pasta as it cooks, ensuring that every bite is well-seasoned.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, save about 1/4 cup of the starchy cooking water. This water can be used to loosen the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta. The starch in the water acts as a natural thickener, creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the Brussels sprouts, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the sprouts to steam rather than caramelize, resulting in a softer texture. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they develop a nice, golden-brown color.
5. Balance the Flavors: Taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the dish feels too rich, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten it up. If it needs more depth, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or extra parmesan cheese can do the trick.

---

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re an excellent source of:

• Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin.
• Vitamin K: Essential for bone health and blood clotting.
• Fiber: Aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Antioxidants: Help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

Bacon

While bacon is often considered a treat, it adds a rich, smoky flavor to this dish. Opt for high-quality, nitrate-free bacon for a healthier option.

Pesto

Pesto is made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s a flavorful sauce that’s rich in:

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
• Antioxidants: Basil contains compounds that help fight oxidative stress.

Whole-Grain Pasta

Using whole-grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta, making this dish more filling and nutritious.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the components (cooked pasta, sautéed Brussels sprouts, and bacon) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine everything in a skillet.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the dish.

Can I Freeze This Pasta?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the Brussels sprouts and pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the components separately and combine them after reheating.

---

Why This Recipe Works for SEO

This post is optimized around the keyword “Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta” to ensure it ranks well on search engines. Here’s how:

• The keyword is included in the title, headings, and throughout the body of the text.
• The content is detailed and informative, providing value to readers.
• The recipe is easy to follow, with clear instructions and tips.
• The post includes related keywords like “weeknight meal,” “quick pasta recipe,” and “healthy dinner ideas” to improve search visibility.

---

Print

Final Thoughts

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is a dish that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, flavorful, and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, with its customizable nature, you can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.