Description
This Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Gratin is a rich and comforting side dish made with roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce. Topped with golden breadcrumbs and baked until bubbly, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Brussels & Bacon:
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1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
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6 slices bacon, chopped
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 cup whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or sharp white cheddar cheese
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
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1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish. -
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the skillet. -
Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, reserved bacon fat, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and golden on the edges. Remove from oven and reduce heat to 375°F (190°C). -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat when the cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. -
Assemble the Gratin:
In the baking dish, combine roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top and gently mix to coat. -
Make the Topping & Bake:
In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the gratin.
Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. -
Serve:
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
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Gruyère gives a classic gratin flavor, but white cheddar or fontina also work great.
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Can be made ahead: assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready (add 10–15 minutes to bake time).
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Want it extra crispy? Broil the topping for 2 minutes at the end.