Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• About 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 strips crispy bacon, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• 1 tablespoon (½ ounce) unsalted butter
• 2 large garlic cloves, pressed through garlic press
• Salt
• 1 ½ tablespoons (½ ounce) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Pinch granulated onion
• Pinch granulated garlic
• Pinch paprika
• Pinch salt
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

Preparation

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the lemon juice.
   • Spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet in a single layer and roast until golden and tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

   • While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, melt the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat.
   • Add the garlic and cook until aromatic, about 30 seconds.
   • Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to create a smooth roux, cooking for another 30 seconds.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a vigorous simmer.
   • Reduce the heat and let the milk mixture gently simmer until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Off the heat, whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Taste and adjust with more salt if needed. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:

   • In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, granulated onion, granulated garlic, paprika, and salt.
   • Stir in the olive oil until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Set aside.

4. Assemble and Broil:

   • Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, turn your oven to the “broil” setting.
   • Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a shallow, oven-safe baking dish in a single layer.
   • Sprinkle about half of the chopped bacon over the Brussels sprouts.
   • Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle the prepared panko breadcrumbs on top.
   • Broil for several minutes until the top is golden-brown and crisp.

5. Serve:

   • Finish the dish by sprinkling over the remaining chopped bacon and fresh thyme leaves.
   • Serve immediately.