Brussels Sprouts With Bacon And Walnuts

• 2 (10 ounce) packages Brussels sprouts
• 2 ounces thick slab bacon, cut into 3/4 inch cubes
• 3 -4 shallots, sliced thin lengthwise
• 1/2 cup walnut pieces
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/2 cup gorgonzola, crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• fresh ground black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Wash and then peel off any loose or damaged leaves from the sprouts. Trim the root end and cut each sprout in half.
3. Cook the bacon, shallots, cranberries and walnuts in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat until bacon just begins to crisp, shallots are translucent, and walnuts are toasted, about 4 minutes. Transfer the mixture with a slotted spoon to a bowl and set aside.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon drippings and season with salt and pepper, toss until sprouts are coated. If necessary, add a shot of olive oil to make sure the sprouts are coated.
5. Put the pan in the oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for about 30 minutes, add the bacon mixture and continue to roast until the sprouts are cooked through and golden, about 10 to 15 minutes more. The time may vary based on the size of your sprouts, please watch then carefully. When done, they should be tender and golden brown.
6. Before serving, top with crumbled Gorgonzola cheese (optional).

brussels sprouts, bacon, walnut pieces, cranberries, gorgonzola, salt, fresh ground black pepper

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/brussels-sprouts-with-bacon-and-walnuts-492379 (may not work)