2 lbs Brussels Sprouts - trimmed and halved lengthwise
6 slices Thick Cut Bacon - small chopped
2 small Shallots - minced
1 clove Fresh Garlic - minced
4 Tbs Unsalted Butter - divided
¾ Cup Heavy Cream
½ Cup Sharp White Cheddar - grated
½ Cup Gruyère Cheese - grated
¼ Cup Aged Monterey Jack (AKA: Dry Jack) - grated - can substitute Parmigiano-Reggiano
Kosher Salt to taste
Fresh Ground Black Pepper to taste
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 375ºF
Place the chopped bacon in a cold, large, oven-safe skillet and place over medium heat - Allow to cook until crispy (apx 7 minutes) - Using a slotted spoon, transfer to absorbent paper and set aside until needed - Discard the bacon grease and wipe out the skillet
Return the skillet to medium heat and add half the butter (2 Tbs) - As soon as the butter is melted, add the Brussels sprouts in a single layer cut side down - Allow to cook (undisturbed) until the sprouts are caramelized and slightly charred (apx 6-8 minutes)
Add the remaining butter and the shallots - Sauté until the shallots are just tender (apx 4 minutes) - Add the garlic and continue to sauté until very fragrant (apx 1 minute more) - Generously season with salt and pepper to taste
Remove from heat and drizzle with the heavy cream - Spread the cheeses and cooked bacon over the top
Bake in the top third of the oven until the cheese is browned and bubbly and the sprouts are fork tender (apx 12-15 minutes)