June 28, 2026 ยท 10 min

Lemony Spaghetti with Brussels Sprouts and Toasted Panko

Dinner10 min1654 cal / serving

This lemony spaghetti with Brussels sprouts is the perfect comfort food for pasta lovers. Al dente spaghetti is tossed with shredded Brussels sprouts, a creamy Parmesan sauce and bright lemon zest. Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, while toasted panko breadcrumbs and chili flakes provide the perfect finishing touch.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is hearty, satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a simple yet elegant dinner that will become a weeknight favorite.


Recipe details

Dinner10 min1654 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories1654 kcalProtein18.8 gFat147.6 gCarbs65.5 gSugar14.3 gFiber3.9 gSodium1538 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Parmesan Cheese0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guide
Cream Cheese2 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guide
Brussels Sprouts8 ounce Brussels SproutsView ingredient guide
Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Chives0.25 ounce ChivesView ingredient guide
Panko Breadcrumbs0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guide
Chili Flakes1 teaspoon Chili FlakesView ingredient guide
Spaghetti6 ounce SpaghettiView ingredient guide
Butter1 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Olive Oil2 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. While pasta cooks, trim and shred Brussels sprouts (or thinly slice). Cut bacon into small pieces.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving drippings in skillet.
  4. Add olive oil and garlic herb butter to the skillet. Add Brussels sprouts and cook, stirring, until tender and slightly browned, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese, cheese roux concentrate and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add cooked spaghetti, Parmesan, lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
  6. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add panko and chili flakes; toast until golden, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Serve spaghetti topped with crispy bacon, toasted panko and chopped chives.
  8. Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Tips

For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use olive oil instead of bacon drippings.

Toast panko carefully as it can burn quickly.

Reserve extra pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?

Yes, gluten-free spaghetti works well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Shredded kale or spinach would be great additions.

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