Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin: Prepare to be amazed! If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, this recipe is about to change your mind forever. We’re taking those often-maligned little cabbages and transforming them into a decadent, cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Au Gratin, a French culinary term meaning “with a crust,” traditionally refers to dishes topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked until golden brown and bubbly. While the exact origins of Brussels sprouts au gratin are a bit murky, the combination of creamy sauce, tender sprouts, and a crispy topping has become a beloved comfort food classic, especially around the holidays.

What makes this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The Brussels sprouts, often bitter when simply steamed or boiled, are mellowed and sweetened by the creamy, cheesy sauce. The topping, whether it’s breadcrumbs, crispy fried onions, or extra cheese, adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender sprouts. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or elegant enough for a special occasion. This dish is proof that even the most humble vegetables can be elevated to something truly extraordinary. Get ready to experience Brussels sprouts in a whole new light!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our Brussels sprouts. I like to trim the ends and remove any outer leaves that look a little sad. Then, depending on their size, I either halve or quarter them. If they’re on the smaller side, halving is perfect. If they’re larger, quartering ensures they cook evenly.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important so the oven is ready when we need it.
2. Steam or blanch the Brussels sprouts. I prefer steaming because it retains more nutrients. To steam, place the Brussels sprouts in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender-crisp. Alternatively, you can blanch them by dropping them into boiling water for 3 minutes, then immediately transferring them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps them retain their vibrant green color.
3. Drain the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Whether you steamed or blanched them, make sure to drain them really well. Excess moisture will make the au gratin watery, and we definitely don’t want that! Pat them dry with paper towels if needed.

Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Now for the star of the show – the creamy, cheesy sauce! This is where the magic happens, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. We’re going to use this to sauté the onion and garlic, which will form the base of our sauce.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. You want the onion to be nice and soft so it blends seamlessly into the sauce.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be heavenly!
4. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Make sure to cook the flour long enough to get rid of the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Start with a small amount of milk and whisk until smooth, then add the remaining milk in a steady stream, whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the nutmeg, cayenne pepper (if using), Gruyere cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed!

Assembling and Baking the Au Gratin

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to put everything together and bake it to golden-brown perfection.

1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the au gratin from sticking to the dish.
2. Arrange the steamed or blanched Brussels sprouts in the prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly in a single layer.
3. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the Brussels sprouts, making sure they are evenly coated. Use a spatula to gently push the sauce down between the sprouts.
4. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss to coat the breadcrumbs evenly with the butter and cheese. This will create a crispy, golden-brown topping.
5. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese sauce. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum crunch.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the breadcrumb topping. This will help the breadcrumbs brown nicely.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent the topping from burning. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
8. Let the au gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth!

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin? Here are a few ideas:

• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with Brussels sprouts and cheese. Sprinkle it over the Brussels sprouts before adding the cheese sauce.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Fontina, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
• Add a touch of spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or sprinkle some on top of the breadcrumb topping.
• Make it vegetarian: Ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses use animal rennet.
• Add some protein: Consider adding cooked ham or sausage for a heartier dish.
• Roast the Brussels sprouts: For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the Brussels sprouts instead of steaming or blanching them. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the au gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve it alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or ham.
• Pair it with a grilled steak or pork chop.
• Serve it as a vegetarian main course with a side salad.
• Bring it to a potluck or holiday gathering.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting and delicious way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin isn’t just another side dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a decadent and comforting experience. The creamy sauce, the perfectly tender sprouts, and that golden, bubbly cheese topping – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have even the most ardent Brussels sprout skeptic begging for seconds. Forget everything you thought you knew about these little green vegetables; this au gratin will redefine your perception.

But why is it so special? It’s the combination of simple ingredients, elevated by careful preparation, that makes all the difference. Roasting the Brussels sprouts beforehand brings out their natural sweetness and eliminates any bitterness. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and nutmeg, adds a layer of richness and warmth. And of course, the Gruyere cheese – oh, the Gruyere! It melts into a nutty, slightly tangy blanket that perfectly complements the other flavors. This isn’t just cooking; it’s culinary alchemy!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a roasted chicken, a juicy steak, or even a hearty vegetarian main course like lentil loaf. For a truly indulgent experience, try serving it alongside mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce during the holidays.

Looking for variations? I’ve got you covered!

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
* Add some protein: Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory twist.
* Go vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add some toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
* Cheese swap: While Gruyere is my personal favorite, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or even a blend of different cheeses.
* Breadcrumb topping: For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese over the au gratin before baking.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin that I urge you to try it as soon as possible. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or any time you’re craving something comforting and delicious.

Ready to embark on this culinary adventure?

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to experience it. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag] and let me know what you think. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how they’re making my recipes their own.

So go ahead, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin masterpiece! You won’t regret it.

Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary creations. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love!