Name: Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 8 oz orecchiette pasta; 8 oz brussels sprouts; 4 slices Bacon; 2 cloves garlic; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; ¼ cup White Wine; ¼ cup chicken stock; ½ tsp lemon zest; ⅔ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; parsley; ½ lemon

This dish combines the delicate, shell-shaped pasta known as orecchiette with the robust flavors of Brussels sprouts. It's a simple yet exquisite meal that will impress your guests. Crispy bacon and a luscious cream sauce give it a rich, savory depth, while a touch of lemon zest adds a fresh, vibrant note.

Photos of Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are quite common and should be available at your local supermarket. However, you might not always have orecchiette pasta or Brussels sprouts at home. Orecchiette is a type of pasta that gets its name from its shape, which resembles a small ear. Brussels sprouts are a winter veggie that look like small cabbages. Both of these items are crucial for this recipe, and they can easily be found in most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts

Orecchiette pasta: A type of pasta that's shaped like small ears. Its unique shape allows it to hold more sauce than other pasta types.

Brussels sprouts: These mini cabbages bring a earthy, slightly bitter flavor which pairs well with rich, creamy sauces.

Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty element to the dish.

Garlic: Provides a subtle, aromatic base to the sauce.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.

White wine: Deglazes the pan and adds a tangy, acidic element.

Chicken stock: Adds depth and savory flavor to the sauce.

Lemon zest: Provides a fresh, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a luxurious, velvety texture.

Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, umami flavor.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.

Lemon: Used for squeezing over the finished dish, adding a burst of citrusy freshness.

One reader, Keefer Unruh says:

This orecchiette with brussels sprouts recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The creamy sauce with the crispy bacon and the slight tang from the lemon zest - it's a burst of deliciousness in every bite. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Keefer Unruh

Cooking Techniques for Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Cooking the orecchiette: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Slicing the brussels sprouts: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice the brussels sprouts, ensuring even and thin slices for quick and even cooking.

Cooking the bacon: Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crisp, then remove from the pan and set aside, reserving the drippings for flavoring the dish.

Making the cream sauce: Combine the white wine, chicken stock, lemon zest, and heavy cream in the skillet, then simmer until the sauce is reduced and thickened.

Incorporating the brussels sprouts: Add the thinly sliced brussels sprouts to the cream sauce and cook until they are tender but still vibrant in color.

Assembling the dish: Combine the cooked orecchiette with the brussels sprouts and sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Garnishing and serving: Sprinkle the dish with bacon, parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

How To Make Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts

Cook an easy one-pot dish with this orecchiette pasta made with Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon. It’s cooked in a creamy sauce with cheese and lemon zest.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozorecchiette pasta
8ozBrussels sprouts
4slicesbacon,chopped
2clovesgarlic,minced
¼tspred pepper flakes
¼cupwhite wine
¼cupchicken stock
½tsplemon zest
⅔cupheavy cream
¼cupParmesan cheese,grated
parsley,for garnish, optional
½lemon,optional

Instructions

Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain while reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
With a sharp knife or mandoline, slice Brussels sprouts very thinly.
Cook bacon over medium heat until browned and crisp. Remove from pan and set aside reserving drippings.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook just for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in white wine and chicken stock. Simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced by half.
Stir in lemon zest and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 additional minutes.
Add brussels sprouts and 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese and cook for 2 minutes.
Add pasta and heat through (add pasta water if needed).
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, sprinkle with bacon, Parmesan, and squeeze half a lemon over the top (optional). Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 551.84kcal
Fat: 29.84g
Saturated Fat: 14.77g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.92g
Carbohydrates: 51.49g
Fiber: 4.32g
Sugar: 4.86g
Protein: 17.75g
Cholesterol: 80.25mg
Sodium: 376.45mg
Calcium: 182.90mg
Potassium: 498.97mg
Iron: 2.03mg
Vitamin A: 217.56µg
Vitamin C: 56.17mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

When slicing the brussels sprouts, try to make them as thin as possible. This will allow them to cook quickly and evenly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors. If you have a mandoline, this is the perfect time to use it. If not, a sharp knife will do the trick. Just be sure to keep your fingers safe and take your time to get those thin slices.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Pasta Dish

Prep ahead: Chop and slice all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce and toppings to save time.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and the sauce simultaneously, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Quick cook: Opt for pre-sliced brussels sprouts and pre-grated parmesan to cut down on prep time.

Efficient cooking: Use a mandoline to quickly and uniformly slice the brussels sprouts for even cooking.

Leftovers: Make extra and store the leftovers for a quick and delicious meal the next day.

Substitute Ingredients For Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts Recipe

orecchiette pasta - Substitute with farfalle pasta: Farfalle pasta has a similar shape and texture to orecchiette, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and flavor profile to brussels sprouts, and it will work well in this dish.
bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is a suitable substitute for bacon in this recipe, as it provides a similar salty and savory flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes, adding a mild heat and smoky flavor to the dish.
white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for white wine to add depth of flavor to the dish.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock, providing a similar savory base for the dish.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, providing a citrusy aroma and flavor to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon, providing a similar citrusy acidity to the dish.

Plating Ideas for Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

Elevate the plating: Arrange the orecchiette and brussels sprouts in a circular motion, creating a visually appealing presentation on the plate.
Incorporate microgreens: Garnish the dish with delicate microgreens to add a pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some of the plate to remain uncovered, drawing attention to the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Add a finishing touch with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers around the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and providing a subtle floral note.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the dish, such as a wide, shallow bowl, to showcase the orecchiette and brussels sprouts beautifully.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Pot: A cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and stewing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves, extracting the pulp and juices.
Zester: A kitchen tool used to remove the zest from citrus fruits.
Measuring cup: A tool used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used for extracting juice from lemons or other citrus fruits.
Mandoline: A kitchen tool used for slicing and cutting fruits and vegetables with a blade.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

To store leftovers, allow the orecchiette with brussels sprouts to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the orecchiette with brussels sprouts. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the orecchiette with brussels sprouts overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Note: The texture of the brussels sprouts may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer than when freshly prepared. However, the dish will still be flavorful and enjoyable.

How To Reheat Leftover Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

Reheat the leftover orecchiette with brussels sprouts in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir gently until the dish is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This method allows you to quickly revive the flavors and textures of the dish without overcooking the brussels sprouts or making the orecchiette mushy.
For a more hands-off approach, place the leftover orecchiette with brussels sprouts in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up. This method is ideal if you have a larger portion of leftovers or if you want to reheat the dish without adding any extra liquid.
If you're in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions of the orecchiette with brussels sprouts in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or chicken stock to help maintain moisture. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the orecchiette to become rubbery and the brussels sprouts to turn soggy.
For a crispy twist, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the leftover orecchiette with brussels sprouts to the pan and spread it out in an even layer. Allow the dish to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom develops a golden-brown crust. Stir the pasta and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy in spots. This method adds a new texture to the dish and can help revive any flavors that may have become muted during storage.

Interesting Trivia About Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber, and they also contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Is Making Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts at Home Cost-Effective?

This orecchiette with brussels sprouts recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The cost-effectiveness is high, as the ingredients are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish's versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, adding value to its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, owing to its affordability, delicious taste, and nutritional value.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This orecchiette with brussels sprouts recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, brussels sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are particularly high in vitamin C and vitamin K. The dish also includes garlic, which has been linked to various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

However, the recipe also contains several ingredients that can be considered unhealthy when consumed in excess. The use of bacon and heavy cream adds significant amounts of saturated fat and calories to the dish. Additionally, the white wine and parmesan cheese contribute to the overall sodium content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the bacon with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp
Use a lower-fat alternative to heavy cream, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt
Increase the amount of brussels sprouts to boost the vegetable content and fiber
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-sodium variety
Use whole wheat orecchiette pasta to increase the fiber content
Add additional herbs and spices, such as oregano or thyme, to enhance flavor without relying on salt

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still delivers on taste and satisfaction.

Editor's Opinion on This Orecchiette Recipe

The orecchiette with brussels sprouts recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The earthy brussels sprouts, savory bacon, and creamy sauce create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying. The addition of white wine and lemon zest adds a bright and refreshing note to the dish, elevating its overall complexity. This recipe is a perfect balance of indulgence and wholesome ingredients, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and a hint of parmesan cheese, perfect for pairing with the orecchiette and brussels sprouts.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with honey and a touch of cinnamon, adding a hint of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the main dish.

Balsamic Roasted Asparagus: Fresh asparagus roasted with balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of pine nuts, providing a light and refreshing side to complement the richness of the orecchiette and brussels sprouts.

Similar Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This creamy and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream will leave you wanting more.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. It's a great option for a light and satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this tropical and creamy dessert that's not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of mango and coconut will transport you to a sunny paradise.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Orecchiette With Brussels Sprouts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Each bite is a burst of creamy, earthy goodness that will leave you craving for more.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta, featuring crispy toasted bread topped with a vibrant combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and tangy balsamic glaze. This refreshing and colorful dish is the perfect way to start off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Orecchiette with Brussels Sprouts Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring orecchiette pasta and thinly sliced brussels sprouts sautéed with crispy bacon and aromatic garlic. The addition of white wine and chicken stock creates a rich and savory sauce, while the touch of lemon zest adds a refreshing zing. The creamy finish with heavy cream and parmesan cheese brings everything together, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. With these high-quality ingredients and a well-balanced combination of flavors, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

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FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give the dish a smoky flavor without the bacon.

Can I use a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a vegan option.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable stock. You can also use a combination of lemon juice and water to add acidity to the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken or vegetable stock to revive the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While orecchiette works wonderfully with this recipe, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.