Golden Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Tangy Mustard Cream

If you’ve ever thought of Brussels sprouts as bland or boring, this Golden Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon and Tangy Mustard Cream recipe will completely change your mind. Perfectly seared sprouts, crispy bits of turkey bacon, and a rich, Dijon mustard cream sauce make this a bold and irresistible side dish that’s anything but ordinary.

This recipe transforms the humble sprout into something worthy of the spotlight. Blanched to keep their vibrant green color and then pan-seared until golden and caramelized, the Brussels sprouts develop a deep, nutty flavor. Combined with smoky turkey bacon and finished in a tangy, slightly creamy mustard sauce, the result is a dish that’s creamy, crunchy, savory, and bright—all at once.

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or adding it to a weeknight meal, this dish is both indulgent and balanced. Plus, it comes together quickly and uses simple, accessible ingredients.

Want to learn more about the benefits and history of Brussels sprouts? Visit Wikipedia’s page on Brussels sprouts to explore their nutritional value and origin.

For creative plating ideas and sprout pairings, check out this Pinterest board of Brussels sprouts recipes to see how other home cooks and chefs bring out the best in this underrated vegetable.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Golden Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon and Tangy Mustard Cream offer the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and ease—making them a standout side dish or even a light main course. Here’s what makes this dish so satisfying:

  • Golden, crispy sprouts: Pan-searing the Brussels sprouts gives them a caramelized, nutty exterior while keeping their centers tender—not mushy.

  • Smoky turkey bacon: Using turkey bacon keeps the dish leaner while still delivering those savory, salty bites that balance the mustard cream perfectly.

  • Bright and tangy sauce: A mix of Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon juice, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that’s both rich and sharp, cutting through the earthiness of the sprouts.

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for weeknights but elegant enough for holiday spreads or dinner parties.

  • Versatile: Serve it as a side dish with roasted meats or fish, or enjoy it as a vegetarian-friendly entrée (just omit the bacon).

  • Customizable: Add Parmesan for a cheesy finish or top with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.

If you’re a fan of bold, savory vegetables, you’ll also love our Caramelized Onion and Herb Roasted Cauliflower, which features similar textures and flavor depth.

For presentation ideas and creative ways to plate or pair this dish, explore this Pinterest board of Brussels sprouts side dishes and find inspiration for your next meal or gathering.

Golden Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Tangy Mustard Cream

This Golden Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon and Tangy Mustard Cream dish features crisped, caramelized Brussels sprouts tossed in a rich Dijon mustard sauce with smoky turkey bacon and a touch of lemon. Perfectly balanced, creamy, and full of flavor, it’s a quick side that steals the spotlight on any dinner table.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
  • 4 slices turkey bacon chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp whole grain mustard optional for texture
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Brussels sprouts and blanch for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped turkey bacon until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add olive oil or butter to the same skillet. Add Brussels sprouts cut side down and cook for 4–5 minutes without stirring, until golden brown. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until tender.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cooked turkey bacon.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Pour the mustard cream into the skillet and stir to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • Blanch Brussels sprouts first for vibrant color and tender texture.
  • Turkey bacon adds smoky flavor without excess fat.
  • Dijon mustard brings bright tang to balance the cream.
  • Add Parmesan or whole grain mustard for extra depth.
  • Pat sprouts dry before searing for the crispiest texture.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the whole dish.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting or substituting the bacon.
  • This dish can be doubled for holidays or group meals.
  • Best served warm, but leftovers reheat well on the stovetop.
  • Great with chicken, fish, or as a brunch side with eggs.
 
 
 
 
 

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