Brussels Sprouts Gratin

Ready to turn Brussels sprouts into the star of the show? This Brussels Sprouts Gratin is the ultimate comfort dish that takes those little green gems from simple side to irresistible indulgence. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, baked until bubbly and golden on top. The rich, nutty flavors combined with that crisp cheesy crust? Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that might just convert even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday table, this gratin adds warmth and flair to any meal. It’s like a cozy hug in every bite, and super easy to pull together—perfect for when you want to impress without the stress.

Why You’ll Love Brussels Sprouts Gratin

Here’s the scoop on why this gratin is such a winner:

Deliciously Creamy: A luscious cheese sauce wraps every sprout in comforting goodness.

Easy to Make: Minimal prep, straightforward steps, and hands-off baking.

Versatile Side: Pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to hearty beef.

Perfect for Any Season: Great year-round, especially during cozy colder months.

Kid-Friendly: Sneak in those veggies with a cheesy, tasty twist everyone will enjoy.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Brussels Sprouts Gratin

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy delight:

Brussels Sprouts

Trimmed and halved, tender but still with a bit of bite.

Heavy Cream

Creates the silky, rich base of the sauce.

Gruyère Cheese

Nutty and melty, it adds that irresistible golden crust.

Parmesan Cheese

For a sharp, salty kick on top.

Garlic

Minced to add warmth and depth.

Butter

For sautéing and adding richness.

Dijon Mustard

A little tang that brightens the creamy sauce.

Nutmeg

Just a pinch to add subtle warmth and complexity.

Salt and Black Pepper

To bring all those flavors together perfectly.

Instructions

Ready to make some cheesy, crispy Brussels sprouts magic? Let’s go:

Preheat Your Oven

Set to 375°F (190°C) for perfect baking.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Steam or blanch the sprouts until just tender, then set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a pan, melt butter, sauté garlic briefly, then add cream, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in grated Gruyère until melted and smooth.

Combine and Assemble

Toss the Brussels sprouts in the cheese sauce, then transfer to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan generously on top.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let It Cool Slightly

Rest for 5 minutes before serving to let everything set and flavors meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Dish up generous portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to trim and cook Brussels sprouts]
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: [Total time including prep and bake]

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Gratin

This dish shines when paired with:

Roasted Meats: Chicken, pork, or beef for a hearty meal.
Holiday Feasts: Adds a fresh but rich vegetable side to holiday spreads.
Simple Salads: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad.
Vegetarian Meals: Serve as a main with crusty bread or grain bowls.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts give the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Keep sprouts slightly firm before baking to avoid mushiness.
Cheese Variations: Swap Gruyère for cheddar or fontina if preferred.
Make Ahead: Prepare sauce and sprouts in advance, assemble and bake when ready.
Add Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A1: Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid watery gratin.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes, as long as you skip breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A3: Substitute cream with plant-based cream and cheese with vegan alternatives.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.

Q5: Can I add bacon or pancetta?
A5: Absolutely! Crisp some up and sprinkle on top before baking for extra flavor.

Q6: What’s the best baking dish to use?
A6: A ceramic or glass dish works best for even cooking and browning.

Q7: How can I make the gratin less rich?
A7: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Q8: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A8: Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Q9: Can I add herbs?
A9: Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs beautifully with Brussels sprouts.

Q10: How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
A10: Cover loosely with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to brown.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new favorite way to enjoy Brussels sprouts! This creamy, cheesy gratin is cozy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Brussels sprouts, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. So grab those sprouts, get cheesy, and prepare to enjoy a side dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Happy baking!

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