Next, add bacon to a large skillet or pan and place over medium heat, cook bacon on both sides until golden brown. If the pan starts to smoke at any point, simply lower the heat. I always cook my bacon on medium to medium low heat. Once bacon is done cooking, you can set aside to cool, blot with a paper towel to absorb excess grease and then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Add oil to a large pan or skillet and place over medium-high heat. Add in shredded brussels sprouts, season with salt and pepper and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently until tender and slightly golden brown. Remove from heat once done.

While the brussels cook, place a large pot of water over high heat and add in a generous amount of salt. Once the water boils, stir in the pasta and cook until al dente. Once pasta is done cooking, reserve ⅓ cup of pasta water and set aside, then drain pasta in a colander and transfer pasta back to the pot.

Immediately stir in the parmesan cheese, reserved pasta water, garlic powder, shredded brussels, chopped bacon, and salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with red pepper flakes, if desired and serve immediately.