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Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors that will have you saying “I Love Food” with every bite. Imagine tender linguine tangled with vibrant pesto, golden Sprouts With Bacon, and a sprinkle of parmesan—all coming together for the kind of dish that makes Food Blogs swoon. The nutty, garlicky aroma of Pesto Pasta mingles with the irresistible crispness of bacon and the subtle earthiness of Shredded Brussel Sprouts. This is one of those Pesto Pasta Recipes that turns ordinary Weeknight Meals into something you’ll crave again and again. If you’re looking to make your dinner table the happiest place in your home, this is the recipe to try.
Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta
- The combination of Brussels Sprouts And Bacon Pesto Pasta delivers a savory, smoky, and fresh flavor in every forkful.
- Shredded Brussel Sprouts cook quickly and soak up every bit of the herby pesto, making each bite vibrant and satisfying.
- It’s a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal, perfect for busy Weeknight Meals.
- The crispy bacon adds a craveable crunch, while the linguine ties everything together for a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet.
- It’s endlessly customizable—swap the linguine for your favorite pasta, or add extra veggies for a new twist on classic Pesto Pasta Recipes.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Healthy |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 30 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free (with GF pasta) |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine – classic pasta shape that clings to pesto and bacon bits
- 1/2 lb Brussels sprouts, shredded – packed with fiber, vitamins C and K (Brussels sprouts)
- 4 slices bacon – smoky, savory crunch (Bacon)
- 1/2 cup pesto – herby, garlicky, and full of healthy fats (Pesto)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – boosts flavor and aroma
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan – nutty, salty finish
- 1 tbsp olive oil – heart-healthy and helps sauté sprouts
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- Red pepper flakes – optional, for a little heat
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels, leaving ~1 Tbsp fat.
- Add olive oil and shredded Brussels sprouts to skillet. Sauté 5‑7 minutes until tender‑golden.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cooked linguine, pesto, and a splash of reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Crumble bacon into the pasta, along with grated Parmesan. Toss to combine and warm through.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve warm with extra Parmesan and drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s turn your kitchen into a haven for Pesto Pasta lovers with this easy, flavor-packed process.
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Shredded Brussel Sprouts
Drain most bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add olive oil and shredded Brussels sprouts to the pan, sautéing until tender and slightly golden.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Pesto
Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing with pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Add Bacon and Cheese
Crumble the crispy bacon and sprinkle it along with parmesan into the pasta, tossing to combine.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm with extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Pro Tips for Making the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta
- Use freshly shredded Brussels sprouts for the best texture—pre-shredded can get soggy.
- Save a bit of the bacon fat for sautéing; it infuses the sprouts with rich, smoky flavor.
- For a lighter version, swap bacon for turkey bacon or skip it for a vegetarian twist.
- Homemade pesto elevates the dish, but store-bought works in a pinch for quick Weeknight Meals.
- Don’t skip the pasta water—its starch helps create a silky, cohesive sauce that hugs every strand of linguine.
How to Serve Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta
This dish shines on its own or as part of a colorful spread—here are some crowd-pleasing ways to plate it:
- Twirl into shallow bowls for a rustic, comforting presentation
- Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal
- Pair with garlic bread or focaccia for a classic Italian touch
- Garnish with lemon zest for a burst of brightness
- Mix in roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color
- Offer as a main at your next Weeknight Meals gathering
- Pack leftovers in lunchboxes for a next-day treat
- Add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch
- Serve family-style for a relaxed, I Love Food vibe
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Store cooled Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep extra pesto on the side to freshen up reheated portions.
• If possible, store bacon separately to maintain its crispness.
• Add a splash of water or olive oil before reheating to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
• Freeze portions in individual airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
• Pasta may soften slightly after freezing; undercook by 1 minute if prepping ahead.
• Freeze pesto separately for the freshest flavor.
Reheating
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of water or broth.
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
• Add fresh parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil to revive flavors.
• Top with reserved bacon after reheating to keep it crispy.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts and bacon?
Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, supporting heart and bone health. Bacon adds flavor and protein, but moderation is key for a balanced meal (WebMD).
Can I substitute linguine?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works—try penne, spaghetti, or gluten-free varieties to suit your taste and dietary needs.
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Brighten the dish with fresh lemon juice, extra herbs like basil or parsley, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for zing.
Can I meal prep Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta?
Yes! Cook the pasta and sprouts ahead, store separately, and toss with pesto and bacon just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Final Thoughts
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta is the kind of meal that reminds you why you love cooking and sharing food. Its lively flavors, quick prep, and irresistible textures make it a go-to for Weeknight Meals or special occasions. Whether you’re a Pesto Pasta fanatic or just looking to jazz up your Food Blogs repertoire, this dish is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try, savor every bite, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself saying, “I Love Food” out loud!
