Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits: The Best Thanksgiving Side Dish!
If you’re searching for an easy yet scrumptious side dish to impress your guests during the holiday season, look no further! Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits is here to elevate your Thanksgiving feast. With its crispy bacon, creamy cheddar, and vibrant Brussels sprouts, this dish combines comforting flavors that everyone will love. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable recipe!
A Flavorful Tradition
Many families have their own Thanksgiving traditions, and for ours, it begins with brussels sprouts. Often overlooked, this little green vegetable shines when paired with unexpected flavors like cheddar and bacon. It’s no wonder why this dish has become a staple in our home. Not only does it celebrate seasonal ingredients, but it also offers an enticing balance of savory and cheesy goodness. You’ll find that it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, making it the best brussels sprouts recipe for your holiday table.
Ingredients
To create Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for an extra flavor kick)
Easy Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences. If you’re not a fan of bacon, turkey bacon or smoked salmon can work beautifully as alternatives. Similarly, feel free to swap out cheddar for a different cheese like Gruyère or gouda. The key is to maintain that creamy, cheesy goodness!
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Brussels sprouts roast to crispy perfection.
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Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nicely crisp. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon bits onto a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the grease in the skillet.
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Prepare Brussels sprouts: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the trimmed Brussels sprouts. Toss them in the grease, adding olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using. Mix well until every piece is coated.
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Roast your sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown with crispy edges.
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Melt the cheese: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits andthe shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
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Finish it off: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired for an extra depth of flavor. Give everything a gentle toss to combine, then serve hot!
Tips and Variations
Making Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips and exciting variations to consider:
Tips:
- Parboil your Brussels sprouts: If you prefer a softer texture, you can parboil the Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes before roasting. This will reduce roasting time and keep them tender.
- Add nuts: For an added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or pecans before roasting.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be sprinkled on top before serving for an aromatic finish.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up!
- Buffalo Version: Drizzle some buffalo sauce on top before serving for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a rich, unique flavor.
Final Thoughts
Arthur’s Cheddar Brussels Blessed with Bacon Bits is a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving menu. With its delightful blend of flavors, this easy recipe will leave everyone at your table asking for seconds. Whether you’re a devoted Brussels sprouts lover or a reluctant taster, you’ll find joy in every bite of this unforgettable dish.
Try it this holiday season and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your own variations and tips; we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Happy cooking! 🥦🥓🧀