Easy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe to Try

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting side dish that’s both elegant and surprisingly simple, this Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts bathed in a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden, bubbly crust that pairs perfectly with your favorite dinner plate. This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin will turn even the pickiest eaters into devoted fans, making it a must-try recipe that brings warmth and charm to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food: A rich, creamy cheese sauce makes Brussels sprouts irresistibly cozy and satisfying.
• Simple ingredients: Uses everyday items you likely have on hand, making it easy to whip up anytime.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether for a weeknight dinner or holiday feast, this recipe shines.
• Great for picky eaters: The cheesy goodness masks any bitterness, making Brussels sprouts more approachable.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or additional veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe relies on a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that work in harmony to create a luscious yet approachable dish. Each item is chosen to enhance the creamy texture, cheesy depth, and satisfying bite of the sprouts.

• Fresh Brussels sprouts: Choose bright green, firm sprouts for the best taste and texture.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps develop the creamy base.
• All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce into a smooth béchamel.
• Milk or cream: Provides the luscious liquid foundation for the creamy sauce.
• Shredded cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and gruyere lends complexity and meltiness.
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic: Offers subtle, savory warmth to brighten the dish.
• Breadcrumbs: Create a delightfully crispy topping to contrast the creamy interior.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

One of the best parts about Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is how adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative or change things up based on what you have or your dietary preferences. It’s a highly forgiving dish that welcomes your personal flair!

• Cheese swap: Try parmesan or mozzarella for a different cheesy profile.
• Add bacon: Crisp bacon bits give a smoky, savory crunch that pairs wonderfully.
• Use almond milk: For a dairy-free twist, substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk.
• Include herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds an aromatic touch to brighten the flavors.
• Mix in other veggies: Toss in cooked cauliflower or mushrooms for more variety and texture.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels sprouts

Trim and clean your Brussels sprouts, then slice them in half for even cooking. Blanch them briefly in boiling water to soften slightly, then drain well—this step makes sure they cook through perfectly while staying tender.

Step 2: Make the roux

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour until smooth. Cook this mixture for a minute or two, which removes the raw flour taste and thickens the base for your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Create the cheese sauce

Gradually add milk into the roux, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth, followed by seasoning with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to develop a perfect savory balance.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

Combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the cheese sauce in a baking dish, then sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden brown and bubbling, about 20-25 minutes.

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Trim thoroughly: Removing the outer leaves ensures a delicate texture and removes bitterness.
• Blanch first: Partially cooking the sprouts before baking keeps them tender without being mushy.
• Use sharp cheese: Sharp cheddar or gruyere gives a punchy flavor that balances the creaminess.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: They add the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Bake uncovered: Letting the au gratin brown on top creates that irresistible crust everyone loves.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a bright, fresh finish to the warm cheesy casserole, lifting the overall flavor and making it visually inviting.

Side Dishes

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin makes a superb side, pairing beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It also complements vegetarian mains such as grain bowls or baked tofu dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in individual ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties, or scoop into a large baking dish for a cozy family-style meal where everyone can dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It remains creamy and flavorful, making for delicious next-day enjoyment.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again on top. Avoid microwaving to keep the breadcrumb topping from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts can be used as a convenient alternative, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before assembling to prevent excess moisture.

What cheese works best in Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Sharp cheddar and gruyere are ideal because they melt well and offer a nice balance of sharpness and creaminess, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is vegetarian-friendly when you skip any bacon or meat add-ins and use vegetarian-friendly cheese.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese alternatives, you can easily transform the recipe to be fully vegan while retaining the creamy, cheesy style.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too watery?

Ensure you cook the roux long enough to thicken before adding milk and avoid adding extra liquid. Also, thoroughly drain Brussels sprouts after blanching to keep the consistency just right.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is a delicious way to elevate these little leafy veggies into a rich, cheesy indulgence everyone will adore. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Dive in and enjoy the creamy, golden goodness that makes Brussels sprouts truly shine.

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