Before we jump into the delicious depths of Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts, let’s consider some excellent pairings. These sprouts shine brightly as a side dish, but they also play nicely with various main courses. Picture a succulent grilled chicken, seasoned perfectly. The crispy texture from the chicken paired with the creamy, hearty sprouts creates a culinary harmony. If fish is more your style, a zesty lemon herb salmon complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully. The bright acidity from the fish balances the creaminess of the dish. For vegetarians, consider pairing these sprouts with a hearty quinoa and roasted vegetable medley. The nuttiness of quinoa and the earthiness of the roasted veggies will provide a delightful contrast.
Now, let’s dig into the creamy goodness of the Brussels sprouts themselves.
Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts—what an indulgent treat! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen. When I switched to a keto diet, I sought out recipes that didn’t skimp on flavor but kept my carb intake low. After experimenting in my kitchen, I stumbled upon a recipe that hit all the right notes. Creamy, rich, and satisfyingly crunchy, these Brussels sprouts offer not just taste but also nutrition.
But wait! Why should you care about my opinion? Well, I’m a registered dietitian and a food blogger, and I thrive on sharing recipes that marry health with taste. Over the years, I’ve tested numerous recipes, making adjustments until they resonate with my taste buds and fit the nutritional needs of those living a keto lifestyle. Trust me; this recipe is worth your time.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and grated Parmesan creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the Brussels sprouts perfectly. It’s comforting and satisfying, mimicking indulgent comfort foods.
2. Flavor Profile: The use of bacon, garlic, and onions adds layers of flavor. The smokiness from the bacon contrasts beautifully with the earthy Brussels sprouts, while garlic and onion provide aromatic depth.
3. Nutrient-Dense and Low-Carb: This dish maintains the keto-friendly status by being low in carbs while packing in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
4. Versatility: You can easily adapt this recipe. Add some herbs or adjust the seasoning for your own preferences. Feel free to make it your own, whether that means a bit more spice or a hint of citrus!
How Does It Taste?
Imagine crispy Brussels sprouts enveloped in a decadently creamy sauce. The taste is savory with hints of smokiness from the bacon, complemented by the slight tang of Parmesan cheese. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a creamy explosion. It’s everything you crave and more.
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What Sets This Recipe Apart?
What makes my Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts recipe special is its balance and depth. Many creamy recipes can be overly rich or bland. I’ve taken care to add ingredients that not only enhance the flavors but also contribute to a refreshing aspect, such as the optional lemon juice. It brightens the overall dish, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup finely diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (for a lighter flavor)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds subtle tang and depth)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional, brightens flavors)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and aromatic, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush this step—let those flavors develop! Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease. Add the finely diced onion to the pan and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Next, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly charred in places.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and scrape up any bits that cling to the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor! Lower the heat slightly, and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once the cream is simmering, add the crispy bacon back to the skillet. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, salt, red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If you want a bit of brightness, add the lemon juice and mix again.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once ready, serve your Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts hot. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or even fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Buy Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without yellow leaves for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon: The smokiness really elevates the dish. Feel free to use turkey bacon if you prefer, but don’t leave it out entirely.
- Vegan Options: You can substitute the bacon with mushrooms and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a vegan twist.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently on the stove over low heat to maintain texture.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts contains approximately:
How Do You Store These Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or microwave. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to bring the creaminess back.
Sides for Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts
1. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a classic pairing. The light flavor of grilled chicken complements the heaviness of the creamy sprouts. Season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices for an added flavor boost.
2. Garlic Butter Steak
A juicy steak seared in garlic butter pairs beautifully. The richness of the steak complements the creamy sauce while achieving a delightful contrast in textures.
3. Herb-Crusted Salmon
For those who prefer seafood, a herb-crusted salmon drizzled with lemon juice provides a bright, zesty flavor that balances the creamy Brussels sprouts.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
1. Chicken Broth Alternatives
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just as well. Just ensure it’s low in sodium to control the saltiness.
2. Heavy Cream Substitutes
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk if you’re looking for lower fat alternatives. Both will alter the flavor slightly but will still provide a creamy texture.
3. Parmesan Cheese Options
Grated asiago or pecorino romano can stand in for Parmesan. They both offer unique flavors that complement the dish well.
4. Bacon Alternatives
If you prefer not to use bacon, try using smoked turkey or pancetta for a leaner option. Both will add a nice smoky flavor.
Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon chopped
- ¼ cup finely diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts halved
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter flavor
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, adds subtle tang and depth
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice optional, brightens flavors
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and aromatic, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush this step—let those flavors develop! Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease. Add the finely diced onion to the pan and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Next, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly charred in places.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and scrape up any bits that cling to the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor! Lower the heat slightly, and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Once the cream is simmering, add the crispy bacon back to the skillet. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, salt, red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If you want a bit of brightness, add the lemon juice and mix again.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once ready, serve your Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts hot. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or even fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
- Buy Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without yellow leaves for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon: The smokiness really elevates the dish. Feel free to use turkey bacon if you prefer, but don’t leave it out entirely.
- Vegan Options: You can substitute the bacon with mushrooms and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a vegan twist.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently on the stove over low heat to maintain texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine them before serving.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. The coconut provides creaminess and the nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor.
3. Can I freeze my Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts?
While I don’t recommend freezing this dish, if you have to, do so before adding the cream. After thawing, you can add the cream and reheat.
4. Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Absolutely! Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins C and K and are great for digestive health due to their fiber content.
Conclusion
Keto Creamy Brussels Sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re a showcase of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With a balance of creaminess, crunchiness, and wholesome goodness, this recipe is destined to be a favorite for your keto-friendly table. And while they stand out on their own, they harmonize seamlessly with many delightful entrees. Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let Brussels sprouts surprise you! You might just find your new favorite comfort food. Happy cooking!
