Bacon & Brussels Carbonara

The shredded brussels in this recipe take on a much milder flavor and they are perfect in this creamy pasta!

I'm working on convincing my family that brussels sprouts are delicious. I love them and would eat them any which way. I figured that if they were shredded, Nick and the kids might take to them a little better. Plus I figured that carbonara would definitely win over their hearts...er, stomachs. I was glad to be right! Nick and the big kids did love this recipe. They actually didn't realize that it was brussels and were all pleasantly surprised and I think more willing to try brussels in the future because of this recipe. I think the shredded brussels pick up more flavor from other elements in the recipe and become a little less bitter. I personally don't mind their bitterness, but I think that was definitely one of the reasons this worked so well for the whole family.

(Print)
What you need:

• 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper
• 8 oz. spaghetti
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• EVOO
• 1 large shallot
• 12 oz. brussels sprouts, trimmed
• 2 cloves minced garlic

Directions:

1. Whisk eggs in bowl and add salt, pepper, and Parmesan. Set aside.
2. Slice brussels thinly with a knife, mandolin, or even through a food processor.
3. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and crispy, then remove to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave bacon fat in skillet.
4. Add enough EVOO to skillet to bring the amount of fat up to 2 Tbsp.
5. Add shallot and brussels. Salt and pepper to taste. Turn up heat to medium-high and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until brussels are tender and caramelized.
6. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
7. Add bacon back to skillet and remove from heat.
8. While brussels are cooking, cook pasta in salted water to al dente. Reserve pasta water.
9. Transfer cooked pasta to brussels mixture and toss.
10. Then add eggs and stir with tongs to coat pasta evently. Add a little pasta water to loosen up and make the sauce smooth while tossing.
11. Serve topped with additional Parmesan cheese.

Recipe from Iowa Girl Eats

Start your day with a hearty breakfast like this Veggie and Egg Hash that also features brussels. If you are new to brussels, I think the best way to try them is with cheese and bacon and this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe from Mom on Timeout has both cheese and bacon!

------------------------------
don't miss a thing. follow fantastical on:
facebook | pinterest | bloglovin | instagram