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–+ servings
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta that's a Weeknight Winner

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pesto Pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta (e.g., pasta shells) Use gluten-free pasta if needed
For the Vegetables
  • 4 cups Brussels Sprouts Pre-shredded saves time
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh enhances flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder dish
For the Protein
  • 6 slices Bacon Substitute with olive oil for vegetarian option
For the Seasoning
  • Kosher Salt Adjust to taste
  • Black Pepper Adjust to taste
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Pesto Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 whole Lemon Squeeze for juice
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grate fresh for depth of flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Food Processor

Method
 

Cooking Directions
  1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Thinly slice the brussels sprouts and set them aside.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving some grease in the skillet.
  4. Add shredded brussels sprouts and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Combine drained pasta, bacon, pesto, lemon juice, and parmesan in the skillet. Mix over heat for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
  7. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh garlic and grate your own parmesan from a block. You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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