Easy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the natural crispness of fresh vegetables, this Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is your new best friend. This recipe transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a comforting, indulgent meal that’s quick to prepare and delightful at any table. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your weeknight dinner or impress guests with a luscious side, Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is delicious comfort food that’s truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Explosion: The rich cheese sauce perfectly complements the subtle earthiness of Brussels sprouts for a balanced and savory bite.
• Quick & Simple Prep: You can whip this comforting dish up in under 30 minutes, making it great for busy days or last-minute meals.
• Versatile Comfort Food: It can serve as a hearty side dish or a light vegetarian main that everyone will adore.
• Seasonal Favorite: Brussels sprouts shine brightest in this creamy gratin, making it a perfect choice for cozy fall and winter dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering its creamy, cheesy, and slightly crispy texture that’s sure to delight every palate.

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh and halved, they provide the perfect base with their tender-crisp bite and slight natural bitterness.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky cheese sauce consistency.
• All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the creamy sauce, lending it a perfect velvety texture.
• Milk or cream: The foundation of the sauce, offering smoothness and richness to complement the cheese.
• Gruyère cheese: A sharp, nutty cheese that melts beautifully and gives this dish its signature depth of flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory punch and creates a golden, crispy crust when baked.
• Garlic: Infuses subtle warmth and aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Nutmeg: A pinch enhances the creamy sauce with mild warmth and complexity.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.

Variations for Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

You can easily adapt this Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe to fit different taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply to shake things up. Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these simple variations.

• Extra crunch: Toss in toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking to add a satisfying crispy layer.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives for a creamy, vegan gratin.
• Bacon boost: Add crispy bacon bits or pancetta for a smoky, savory twist.
• Different cheeses: Try cheddar, fontina, or mozzarella in place of Gruyère for a milder or creamier flavor profile.
• Herb infusion: Stir fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for a fragrant, herbal note.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and halve them for even cooking. Blanch them briefly in boiling salted water for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then drain well. This step softens the sprouts but keeps their structure intact for baking.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux and cook for about a minute without browning. Gradually add warm milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened and creamy, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Seasonings

Stir in finely grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add minced garlic, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This cheesy sauce brings the ultimate rich flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Arrange the blanched Brussels sprouts in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over them. Top with additional Parmesan for a golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbling and beautifully browned on top.

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Even cooking: Halve the Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and blend perfectly with the sauce.
• Warm milk: Use warm milk or cream when making the sauce to prevent lumps and achieve a smoother consistency.
• Cheese choice: Opt for cheeses that melt well like Gruyère and avoid pre-shredded varieties that often contain anti-caking agents.
• Don’t skip blanching: Par-cooking the Brussels sprouts softens their bite and tames their natural bitterness for a creamier dish.
• Watch the bake time: Keep an eye on the gratin in the oven to get a perfect golden crust without burning the cheese topping.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and a subtle fresh flavor that balances the richness of the gratin perfectly.

Side Dishes

This creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a light salad to create a well-rounded meal packed with textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant touch, or spoon it onto a beautiful serving platter with a drizzle of browned butter for extra indulgence that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It holds well and keeps its creamy texture when properly stored.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. This helps preserve the crispy top and creamy middle without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make the gratin watery.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have Gruyère?

Emmental, fontina, or sharp white cheddar are excellent alternatives that melt well and offer similar flavor profiles.

Is Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! As long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese and skip any meat additions, it’s a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I prepare this dish vegan?

Yes, by swapping butter for olive oil, using plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives, you can create a similar creamy gratin experience.

How can I make the gratin more crispy on top?

Add a layer of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking for that extra crunch.

Final Thoughts

Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin takes humble Brussels sprouts to the next level with its luscious, cheesy sauce and inviting golden crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant and perfect to enjoy all year long. I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with its creamy, savory magic just like I did!

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