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+ servings
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta for Quick Cozy Dinners

A quick and easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta recipe, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Pasta Choose your favorite shape; gluten-free pasta works wonderfully.
For the Greens
  • 1 pound Brussels Sprouts Trimmed and thinly sliced or shredded.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced or grated for even flavor distribution.
For the Flavor Boosters
  • 6 ounces Bacon High-quality bacon is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup Pesto Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Fresh juice for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly shredded.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. Prep Brussels Sprouts: Thinly slice or shred the Brussels sprouts.
  3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving some drippings.
  4. Sauté Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, add Brussels sprouts and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Add drained pasta, chopped bacon, pesto, lemon juice, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  7. Serve: Plate and top with remaining Parmesan cheese and a twist of lemon if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 24gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 890mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

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