Caramelized Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Fettuccine Alfredo
Total Time
40 minutes
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Rating
4.23 out of 5 stars
(40)
Ingredients
6 servings
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 15-20 large brussels sprouts (stems removed and sliced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced or grated)
- 1/4 teaspoons sea salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 pound regular (whole wheat or whole grain fettuccine)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk (plus more for thinning if needed, I use 2%)
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
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Preparation
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and prepare according to directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
Heat a large skillet with high sides over medium-high heat and cook bacon until crispy. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate. Remove all but one tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan and then add 1 tablespoon olive oil over high heat. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds. Add the brussels sprouts in a single layer and sprinkle with brown sugar and salt. Let sit 1 minute and stir. Continue to saute for another 4-5 minutes, until bright green and tender. Now add the pecans and cook another 3-5 minutes. Remove everything from the pan and carefully wipe the pan clean.
Step 3
To the same pan add the butter, milk and mascarpone cheese. Bring to a boil and simmer until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes. Add the parmesan, parsley, crushed red pepper, pepper, salt and nutmeg, whisking until the cheese has melted. Simmer the sauce 3-5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the pasta and brussels sprouts to the sauce and toss well, cook another 1-2 minutes to warm through. Serve immediately with fresh parmesan.
Step 4
If your skillet is not big enough to toss the pasta in transfer everything to a large pot or serving bowl and toss well.
Step 5
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