Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and impressive, look no further than Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin! This dish has become a cherished favorite in my home. The combination of creamy sauce and cheesy goodness makes these Brussels sprouts irresistible, even to those who claim not to like them. It’s perfect for family gatherings, festive dinners, or even a cozy weeknight meal. Trust me, everyone will be raving about this dish!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare while still feeling special. With just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a delicious side that can steal the spotlight at any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and one pan, you can whip up this delightful dish without any hassle.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these cheesy Brussels sprouts, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare everything in advance and pop it in the oven right before serving!
• Rich and Flavorful: The blend of cheeses and garlic creates an unforgettable taste that elevates your everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin:

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 16 ounces brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed, and cut in half

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Cheesy Topping

• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded fontina cheese

Variations

This dish is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Change Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Try Different Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Make Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375ºF. Preheating ensures that your Brussels sprouts bake evenly and helps achieve that perfect bubbly cheese topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the oven heats up, clean and trim those lovely brussels sprouts. Then, shred your fontina, cheddar, and parmesan cheese. Combining them beforehand makes it easy to incorporate into the sauce later.

Step 3: Infuse the Butter with Garlic

In an oven-proof pan (like a cast iron skillet), melt the butter over medium heat with minced garlic. Allowing the garlic to infuse into the butter creates a beautiful flavor base for your creamy sauce. Just be careful not to let it brown; we want soft garlic rather than crispy bits!

Once fragrant, turn off the heat and stir in your heavy cream along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Mixing in half of your combined shredded cheeses at this stage adds richness to your sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add those halved brussels sprouts into your creamy mixture. Stir well so each sprout gets coated in that luscious sauce! Spread them out in an even layer for consistent cooking. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese over top – because we all know more cheese is always better!

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Melty

Pop your pan into the preheated oven for about 18-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until you see that glorious cheese melting and bubbling away! Once they look golden brown and delicious, take them out and serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.

And there you have it—a delightful dish of Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Making the perfect Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is all about those little details that elevate the dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out absolutely delightful!

• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts provide a crisp texture and vibrant flavor that frozen varieties simply can’t match. Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm to the touch.
• Don’t rush the garlic: Gently infusing the butter with garlic allows its flavors to deepen without burning. Burnt garlic can taste bitter, so keep an eye on it while it simmers.
• Mix cheeses for depth: Combining different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar and creamy fontina, adds layers of flavor that make your au gratin irresistible. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends!
• Bake until bubbly: For a perfectly melted and golden cheese topping, bake until you see the cheese bubbling and lightly browning. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely visual appeal.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking will help it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Serve Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Presenting your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin can be as delightful as preparing it. Here are some ideas to make your serving moments shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich creaminess of the dish.
• Grated lemon zest: A tiny touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing zing that complements the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory garlic and cheese of the au gratin, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables provides a nutritious contrast to the creaminess of the Brussels sprouts, making for a balanced plate.
• Garlic Herb Bread: Serve some crusty bread on the side to soak up any delicious creamy sauce left on your plate. Plus, who can resist warm, garlicky bread?
• Green Beans Almondine: Bright green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness, complementing the tender sprouts in your au gratin wonderfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is sure to steal the show at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully and making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the au gratin to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Item: Cool the dish completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Item: Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Item: Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• Item: Place the au gratin in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil during the last few minutes for a bubbly top!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other vegetables in Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding them to the creamy sauce.

How can I make Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin healthier?

To lighten this dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or use low-fat cheese options. This will still keep it creamy while reducing calories!

What can I serve with Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty grain salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many main courses!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin as much as I do! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Enjoy creating this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!