Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Bacon and Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Bake?
It is a vegetable side dish featuring tender Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a creamy sauce made from sour cream and Parmesan cheese.
How many Brussels sprouts are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for approximately 25-30 Brussels sprouts.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How should I prepare the Brussels sprouts before cooking?
Trim the ends off, discard any yellow or blemished leaves, and make a small 'X' incision at the bottom of each sprout.
Why do I need to make an 'X' incision at the bottom of the sprouts?
The incision helps release bitterness during the cooking process.
How long should I pre-cook the Brussels sprouts?
Steam, boil, or microwave them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
How much bacon is used in this dish?
You will need 8 slices of bacon, which should be crisp cooked and crumbled.
What ingredients are in the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made from butter, minced garlic, sour cream, and fresh grated Parmesan cheese.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 clove of fresh minced garlic.
How long should I cook the garlic in the butter?
Cook the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
How much Parmesan cheese goes into the sauce?
Stir 5 tablespoons of fresh grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture.
Is there additional cheese used as a topping?
Yes, an additional 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese are used to top the casserole before baking.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of butter.
What is the recommended amount of sour cream?
You will need 5 tablespoons of sour cream.
Should I season the dish with pepper?
Yes, use fresh ground black pepper to taste both before baking and as an optional garnish.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, the mixture should be transferred to a greased casserole dish.
How long does the dish bake in the oven?
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I microwave the sprouts for the initial cooking step?
Yes, steaming, boiling, or microwaving are all acceptable methods to reach the tender-crisp stage.
How do I combine the ingredients?
In a large bowl, toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with the crumbled bacon and the creamy sauce until well coated.
When should this dish be served?
It is best served immediately after baking.
What occasions is this dish suitable for?
It is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or as a nutritious vegetable side for daily meals.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: Brussels sprouts, bacon, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, black pepper, and extra Parmesan cheese.
What is the texture of the finished Brussels sprouts?
The sprouts are tender with a smoky crunch from the bacon and a bubbly, melted cheese topping.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include Brussels sprouts, bacon, parmesan, side dish, vegetable recipe, family meal, comfort food, and healthy eating.
Is fresh Parmesan better than canned for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
The recipe specifies fresh Brussels sprouts for the best results in texture and flavor.
What heat should I use to melt the butter?
Use low heat to melt the butter to avoid burning the garlic.
How should the bacon be cooked?
The bacon should be cooked until crisp before being crumbled into the dish.
What is the primary flavor profile of this bake?
It features a smoky, nutty, and creamy flavor profile with savory undertones.
How many servings does this provide?
Based on 25-30 sprouts, it typically serves as a side dish for 4 to 6 people.