There’s a crispness in the air that signals the perfect time for a comforting bowl of mac and cheese. When I first decided to elevate this classic dish, I never imagined how wonderfully Brussels sprouts, kale, and caramelized onions would transform it. As the aroma of melting cheddar envelops my kitchen, I can’t help but smile, recalling cozy evenings spent with family, savoring every creamy spoonful of this indulgent delight.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal to warm you on a chilly night or simply tired of the same old takeout routine, this Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs is here to rescue your dinner plans. The rich flavors and satisfying texture create a symphony that pleases both friends and family. Each bite reveals the crunch of bacon breadcrumbs, a playful contrast to the creamy sauce.
So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the magic of homemade comfort food—let’s get cooking!
Why Will You Love Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts?
Comforting Warmth: This dish is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for chilly evenings, offering the warmth and heartiness you crave.
Rich, Flavorful Combo: The blend of creamy cheddar, earthy Brussels sprouts, and slightly peppery kale creates a delightful flavor explosion.
Crispy Texture: Topping with bacon breadcrumbs adds a satisfying crunch that elevates each creamy spoonful.
Quick and Easy: Made in just a few steps, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights—dinner doesn’t get easier!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, everyone will love this indulgent twist on a classic.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance to save time, ensuring you can enjoy your evening without stress. For more cooking tips, don’t forget to check out our section on serving suggestions to create the perfect meal!
Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
Discover the key elements that make this mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts & bacon breadcrumbs a truly indulgent experience!
For the Pasta
- Pasta (Conchiglioni) – Large shells hold the creamy cheese sauce beautifully; feel free to swap for any pasta shape you have on hand.
For the Vegetables
- Brussels Sprouts – Their rich flavor enhances the dish’s complexity; you can substitute broccoli for a milder taste.
- Kale – Adds nutrition and a slight peppery flavor; spinach could be a softer alternative if preferred.
- Red Onions – Caramelizing them brings out their natural sweetness; yellow onions work if red is not available.
- Scallions – Provide freshness with a mild onion flavor; chives can step in similarly when needed.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Cheddar Cheese – Delivers creaminess and flavor; experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a delicious twist.
- Butter – A key ingredient for the sauce’s richness; margarine can be used if you run out.
- Flour – Thicken your cheese sauce perfectly; consider gluten-free flour for a different dietary need.
- Milk – Creates that luscious creamy texture; plant-based milk can easily replace dairy options.
For the Breadcrumb Topping
- Bacon – Adds smoky flavor and makes a delightful breadcrumb topping; swap with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Olive Oil – Essential for cooking both the vegetables and breadcrumbs; butter is also a fine alternative.
- Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the dish significantly; you may omit it if you prefer.
For Seasoning
- Kosher Salt – Crucial for bringing out all flavors; sea salt or table salt can be adjusted as substitutes.
- Chives (to garnish) – Offers freshness and a pop of color; use green onions or parsley if chives are not on hand.
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a luxurious mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts that your whole family will adore!
How to Make Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts
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Render Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove it from the pot, leaving the delicious fat behind.
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Caramelize Onions: In the same pot, add the red onions and sauté until they turn golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Then toss in the scallions and cook until softened, roughly 2-3 minutes.
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Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Next, add the Brussels sprouts, cooking them in the bacon fat until they’re nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Finish by adding the lemon juice and zest for a pop of acidity.
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Sauté Kale: Quickly wilt the kale in the warmth of the pot. This should take about 1-2 minutes; you’ll know it’s done once it turns vibrant green.
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Prepare Breadcrumbs: Pulse the reserved bacon with bread in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Then, pan-fry them in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
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Cook Pasta: Boil the conchiglioni pasta in salted water according to package instructions, but drain it one minute shy of al dente.
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Make Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking until thickened, then mix in the cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
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Combine: Gently fold the drained pasta and sautéed vegetables into the luscious cheese sauce. Stir well to combine and season to taste with kosher salt.
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Serve: Top each serving with the crispy bacon breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of fresh chives to brighten it up before enjoying!
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These indulgent Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the pasta and sautéing the vegetables, then combining them with the cheese sauce. Simply store the unbaked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of milk to maintain the creamy consistency. You’ll enjoy a comforting, made-ahead meal that tastes just as indulgent as if freshly baked!
Expert Tips for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts
- Cheese Temperature: Keep the heat low when adding cheddar to avoid graininess, ensuring your sauce stays smooth and creamy.
- Pasta Choice: Selecting thick pasta, like conchiglioni, is key, as it hugs the cheese sauce beautifully—don’t skimp on quality!
- Make-Ahead Magic: If preparing in advance, store unbaked mac and cheese in the fridge; reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
- Flavor Balance: Don’t skip the lemon zest and juice; they brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cheese.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different veggies; swapping in squash or spinach can give your Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts a fresh twist!
What to Serve with Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs?
Looking to create a delightful meal around your creamy mac and cheese? Here are some perfect pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
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Garlicky Greens: Sautéed kale or spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch to complement the richness of the mac and cheese. The bright greens enhance both flavor and nutrition, making your plate a feast for the eyes.
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Crunchy Side Salad: A crisp salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette helps to cut through the creaminess of the dish, balancing flavors and adding a refreshing crunch. Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers can energize your meal!
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, offer a sweet and savory contrast to the savory mac and cheese. Their caramelized edges bring additional layers of flavor to your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery garlic bread can be an irresistible addition, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta. Slather with herbs and garlic to elevate this classic side.
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Light Soup: A bowl of tomato basil or roasted red pepper soup makes for a cozy companion, warming your soul while providing acidity that balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon not only cleanses the palate but adds a bubbly freshness that lifts the entire meal. It’s a delightful drink that keeps things light and fun!
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, finish on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The sweet, warm flavors of baked apples offer a comforting finale to your indulgent main course.
Each pairing brings something unique and delicious, ensuring your mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts shines as the star of your meal!
Storage Tips for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the dish creamy, add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Freezer: If you have extra mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts, freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat from frozen by thawing in the fridge overnight, then warming in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance, but wait to bake until you’re ready to serve. This ensures the best texture and flavor when enjoyed fresh!
Variations & Substitutions for Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to customize your mac and cheese!
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Vegetarian: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and add smoked paprika to infuse flavor without meat. Trust me, it’s equally delicious!
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour and use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version while maintaining that creamy texture.
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Different Cheeses: Try blending in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or incorporate sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor profile—mix and match to find your favorite.
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Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole-grain pasta to boost nutrition and give a nuttier taste, making each bite a tad healthier without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing veggies for an exciting heat that contrasts with the creaminess.
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Creamy Alternatives: Use cream cheese alongside cheddar for an ultra-creamy sauce that elevates every spoonful. It adds a luscious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist!
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Herby Freshness: Introduce fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the cheese sauce for a bright flavor and aroma that enhances the overall experience.
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Crispy Topping Twist: Change bacon breadcrumbs to panko mixed with herbs for an extra crunch while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy the unique texture!
Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact bulbs that are bright green. Avoid any with loose leaves, dark spots, or a yellowing appearance, as these may indicate spoilage or over-ripeness.
What is the best way to store leftover mac and cheese?
You should refrigerate your leftover mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain creaminess when reheating, add a splash of milk before warming. An oven set to 350°F is ideal for even reheating without drying out.
Can I freeze mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can! For freezing, allow the mac and cheese to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can enjoy it for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my cheese sauce turns grainy?
Very good question! If your cheese sauce becomes grainy, it may be due to overheating. Always keep the heat on low when adding cheese to your sauce to ensure it melts smoothly. If you find yourself in this situation, whisk in a little warm milk to help smooth it out again.
Are there any dietary concerns for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance unless gluten-free flour is used, it can easily be adapted for dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to achieve a similar savory flavor. Always be sure to check cheese labels for any dairy allergies.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This mac and cheese with Brussels sprouts is quite efficient—it takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ultimate Mac and Cheese with Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Render Bacon: Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from pot, leaving the fat behind.
- Caramelize Onions: In the same pot, add red onions and sauté until golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Then toss in scallions and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Add Brussels sprouts, cooking until nicely browned in the bacon fat, about 5-7 minutes. Finish with lemon juice and zest.
- Sauté Kale: Wilt the kale quickly in the warmth of the pot, about 1-2 minutes, until vibrant green.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: Pulse reserved bacon with bread in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Pan-fry in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the conchiglioni pasta in salted water according to package instructions, but drain one minute shy of al dente.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisk until thickened, then mix in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Gently fold drained pasta and sautéed vegetables into the cheese sauce. Stir to combine and season to taste with kosher salt.
- Serve: Top each serving with crispy bacon breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of fresh chives before enjoying!