Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon Pesto Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dish to brighten up your weeknight dinners, let me introduce you to my favorite: Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon Pesto Pasta! This comforting meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something delicious on the table. The combination of savory bacon, fresh brussels sprouts, and zesty pesto creates a dish that everyone in the family will love.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta fits right in. Plus, it’s hearty enough to satisfy your hunger while being light enough to enjoy any night of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are so good that even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh pesto and sautéed brussels sprouts creates a delicious taste explosion.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for an effortless lunch or dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this dish are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create an irresistible pasta experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta shells or similar shape/size (gluten-free if needed)

For the Vegetables

• 12 ounces brussels sprouts
• 1 clove garlic (grated or minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons pesto
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

For the Protein

• 4 slices of bacon (cooked and chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Use goat cheese or nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon  Pesto Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. This way, you’ll have perfectly al dente pasta ready for mixing with all those delicious flavors! Remember to reserve some pasta water; it can help adjust your sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While your pasta cooks, thinly slice those brussels sprouts. You can use a knife or a food processor – whatever’s easiest for you! Slicing them thin allows them to cook quickly and become tender.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. This step not only adds flavor but also leaves behind some lovely grease that will help sauté our vegetables later. Once cooked, drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet with just a tablespoon of reserved bacon grease, add in the sliced brussels sprouts along with red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they’re tender. Adding garlic at this stage gives off wonderful aromas – trust me, you’ll want that fragrant goodness!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! In your skillet, add in the chopped bacon, drained pasta, pesto, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. Stir everything until well combined. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully! Taste for seasoning before serving hot topped with extra parmesan cheese.

And there you have it – a beautiful plate of Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon Pesto Pasta ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon  Pesto Pasta

Creating a delicious Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon  Pesto Pasta is all about the little details, so here are some tips to help you make this dish even more delightful!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh brussels sprouts and high-quality pesto can make a significant difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your meal.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, which adds a nice bite to your dish. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and will not hold up well when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you’re a spice lover, feel free to add more for an extra kick!
• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is classic, try using pecorino or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative for a unique twist. This will allow you to cater to different dietary preferences while still keeping that cheesy flavor.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This dish can be prepped in advance! Cook everything except the pasta, store it in the fridge, and simply combine it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon Pesto Pasta

Serving Brussels Sprouts and Turkey Bacon Pesto Pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the dish visually and add a fresh flavor contrast.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the pesto.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest on top just before serving can add an extra burst of citrus freshness that elevates the whole dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra pesto sauce left on your plate!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini complement this meal beautifully while adding extra nutrients.
• Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant green veggie adds color to your table and its slight crunch pairs nicely with the creamy pasta.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions according to your taste! Enjoy making this delightful meal that brings comfort to your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and hearty dish throughout the week without spending too much time in the kitchen. Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your leftovers to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the pasta into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
• Stir until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta.

Can I make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with a plant-based alternative, such as smoked tempeh or mushrooms, to achieve that savory flavor.

How can I make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta shells or any similar shape that meets your dietary needs. This will ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious meal!

What type of pesto works best for this recipe?

Any basil pesto will work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach pesto for a twist!

Can I add other vegetables to Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta?

Yes! Feel free to mix in veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta as much as I do! It’s not only a quick weeknight meal but also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh ingredients while indulging in comforting flavors. Don’t hesitate to try it out—it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!