Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch brussels sprouts until crisp-tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain well and cool in a bowl of ice water. Drain well and set aside.
3. Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat, reserving 1 tablespoon in the skillet. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add garlic and shallots to the skillet, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
5. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream, thyme and nutmeg. Cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated and slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Stir in brussels sprouts, bacon and 1 cup cheese until the cheese has melted, about 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
7. Place into oven and bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Serve immediately.