WW Bacon Brussels Gratin

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WW Bacon Brussels Gratin is an ingenious adaptation of one of the most classic comfort foods. It is tender roasted Brussels sprouts mixed with smoky bacon, and it is all enveloped in a creamy and cheesy sauce that is very indulgent and yet fits in the Weight Watchers plan. Individual servings are hearty without being dense, and therefore can embrace the tastes of the classic gratin and remain within your targets. This dish is difficult to resist with its crispy top, golden cheese, and savory flavor of bacon. WW Bacon Brussels Gratin is a mix between comfort and healthier, and provides you with the enjoyment of a rich taste without being overly conscious of portions.

STATS

  • Calories: 140 per serving
  • Prep time: almost 15 minutes
  • Serving size: ¾ cup
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Cuisine: American
  • Total time: 40 minutes
  • Course: Side Dish
  • Diet: Weight Watchers
  • Yield: 6 servings

EQUIPMENT

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish (9×9-inch)
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cooking spray

INGREDIENTS

  • One and a half pounds of trimmed and divided Brussels sprouts.
  • Four center-cut bacon slices, diced, and half a cup of fat-free Greek yogurt
  • Two minced garlic cloves
  • Half a cup of mild sour cream
  • 1/2 a cup of shredded part-skim mozzarellaOne little onion, chopped finely
  • Half a teaspoon of onion powder
  • ½ a cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • A half-teaspoon of paprika salt
  • To taste, add salt and black pepper.
  • Spray for cooking

INGREDIENT NOTES

Brussels sprouts:

  • Fresh sprouts roast best, becoming tender with crispy edges. It should be used frozen, thawed, and dried off.

Bacon:

  • Center-cut bacon makes it lighter and yet delivers a smoky punch. Bake until crisp, and mix.

Greek yogurt:

  • It is creamy, in addition to being protein-rich, but not heavy like cream.

Light sour cream:

  • Moderates the acidity and blushes out the sauce.

Mozzarella:

  • This is a part-skim cheese that melts and maintains fewer points.

Parmesan:

  • A small amount of this is added to add saline sharpness and to form a golden crust.

Onion and garlic:

  • Add flavor and complexity to the sauce.

Spices:

  • Smoked paprika makes the bacon even smokier, and onion powder is used to add slight sweetness.

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spray an oven dish with cooking oil.
  3. Cook pieces of bacon in a skillet on medium heat until crisp.
  4. Take out a slotted spoon and reserve.
  5. Some of the drippings should be left in the pan.
  6. Add cut onion to the skillet. Bake till soft, approximately 3 minutes.
  7. Add in garlic, and saute 30 more seconds.
  8. Whisk Greek yogurt, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  9. Mix until smooth. Blanch or Steam Brussels sprouts and cook them until tender, 4 minutes. Drain well.
  10. Brussels sprouts, cooked onions, garlic, and half the bacon go in the prepared baking dish.
  11. Drizzle the creamy sauce and stir to cover.
  12. Sprinkle with remaining bacon and a small portion of additional Parmesan.
  13. Bake, partially covered, for 20 to 25 minutes, till bubbling, hot, and golden around the edges.
  14. Allow to rest 5 minutes, then serve.

TIPS

  • Brussels sprouts should not be overcooked, as they would become even softer in the oven.
  • Drains are sprouted to keep away a wet gratin.
  • To have a crunchy top, sprinkle with whole wheat breadcrumbs before baking.
  • A big pinch of nutmeg into the sauce makes it a traditional gratin.
  • Prepare in advance and bake immediately before eating.

STORAGE INFORMATION

Fridge:

  • Store leftovers in a sealed box for at least 3 days. Recook in the oven to keep the topping more crisp.

Freezer:

  • Not recommended, as the dairy can separate, and Brussels sprouts may lose texture.

FAQS

Will it work with turkey bacon?

  • Yes, the turkey bacon reduces the points even more and provides a smoky taste.

Can I use a different cheese?

  • Yes. Swiss or Gruyere will add a nutty taste, but they can add points.

Can I prep this in advance?

  • Yes. Prepare the dish, as far as one day before covering. Bake just before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 8 g
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 6% DV
Sodium: 280 mg
Potassium: 420 mg
Serving size: ¾ cup
Weight Watchers Points for WW Bacon Brussels Sprouts Gratin are 3 points per serving.