Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Delicious and garlicky, Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin will become the talk of your Thanksgiving table! This dish features cheesy bites of tender sprouts that are creamy and delightful. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting side dish, this recipe is easy to make and comes together in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. With a small ingredient list but fantastic taste, it’s bound to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to focus on enjoying the meal rather than stressing over complicated cooking techniques.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cheese, and spices creates a luscious flavor profile that pairs beautifully with various proteins.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether for Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight dinner, these Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin fit any occasion perfectly.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in a single pan means less mess and more time to savor your delicious creation.
• Cheesy Goodness: Loaded with three types of cheese, every bite is an indulgent experience that satisfies cheese lovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or braiser
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or braiser: This oven-proof pan allows for even heating and perfect browning while infusing flavors during cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for quickly prepping the brussels sprouts and mincing the garlic.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for combining the cheeses and keeping your ingredients organized.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 16 ounce brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed and cut in half
– 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
– ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded fontina cheese

How to Make Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Position a rack in the center of the oven.
2. Preheat the oven to 375ºF.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

1. While the oven preheats:
2. Clean and trim the brussels sprouts.
3. Shred the fontina, cheddar, and parmesan cheese.
4. Combine all shredded cheeses in one bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Infuse Garlic Flavor

1. Heat your cast iron skillet or braiser over medium heat with butter.
2. Add minced garlic to the melted butter:
3. Allow it to soften without browning; let it simmer gently.
4. Once simmering, turn off the heat:
5. Stir in heavy cream, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
6. Mix in half of the combined shredded cheese.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

1. Add brussels sprouts to the pan:
2. Stir them into the cream sauce until evenly coated.
3. Spread them out in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
5. Place in preheated oven:
6. Bake for 18-25 minutes or until cheese melts and sprouts are cooked through.
7. Serve warm alongside your favorite protein and other sides!

How to Serve Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this recipe adds a rich and creamy touch to your table.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken provides a savory contrast to the creamy texture of the Brussels sprouts, making for a satisfying meal.

Serve with Grilled Lamb Chops

• The smoky flavor of grilled lamb chops pairs wonderfully with the garlicky richness of the au gratin, creating a delightful balance on your plate.

Enjoy alongside Quinoa Salad

• A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs and citrus can lighten up the meal and add a nutritious element alongside the rich Brussels sprouts.

Complement with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• For garlic lovers, pairing with garlic mashed potatoes creates an indulgent experience that is sure to please any palate.

Add a Side of Green Beans

• Crisp-tender green beans bring a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sprouts, adding color and texture to your plate.

Pair with Baked Salmon

• The flaky texture and mild flavor of baked salmon make it a perfect match for the intense flavors of Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin.

How to Perfect Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

To ensure your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts without yellowing leaves. Freshness directly influences flavor and texture.

• Melt Butter Slowly: When infusing garlic in butter, melt it over medium heat. This prevents burning the garlic while allowing its flavor to develop fully.

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overcooked sprouts can become mushy; aim for tender yet slightly crisp Brussels sprouts.

• Use Quality Cheese: Invest in good-quality cheese for better melting and richer flavor. A mix of aged cheeses enhances depth in taste.

• Experiment with Spices: While nutmeg adds warmth, consider adding other spices like smoked paprika or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

When serving Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin, consider these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the creaminess of the au gratin while adding vibrant color to your plate.
2. Citrus Kale Salad: This light salad brightens up your meal with zesty flavors and crunchy textures, complementing the richness of the main dish.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs provides a neutral base that absorbs flavors from both this dish and other proteins.
4. Cauliflower Steaks: Grilled or roasted cauliflower steaks offer a hearty yet healthy addition that pairs well with creamy sides.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with grains or vegetables add variety and are visually appealing next to your au gratin.
6. Lentil Soup: A warm lentil soup provides comfort and protein while maintaining a lighter profile against the creaminess of Brussels sprouts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts: This can lead to mushy vegetables. Cook them until tender but still slightly firm, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Skipping the cheese blend: Using just one type of cheese can make the dish less flavorful. Combine different cheeses like cheddar, fontina, and parmesan for a richer taste.
• Not letting garlic infuse properly: If you let the garlic brown, it can become bitter. Gently simmer the garlic until it’s soft but not browned for the best flavor.
• Using cold cream: Adding cold cream to the warm garlic butter can cause it to curdle. Always use room temperature or slightly warmed cream for a smooth sauce.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you go is crucial. Adjust salt and spices based on your preference before baking for a well-balanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Layer parchment paper between portions if stacking to prevent sticking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin so special?

This dish stands out due to its combination of rich flavors from multiple cheeses and garlic-infused cream, making it both creamy and delicious.

Can I customize my Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is creamy?

The key is using a blend of cheeses along with heavy cream, which creates that luscious creamy consistency.

Is there a healthier alternative for this recipe?

You could substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream or lower-fat alternatives while still achieving a creamy texture.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain excess water before using in this recipe for best results.

Final Thoughts

Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is not only a delightful side dish but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving or any dinner gathering, its rich flavors are sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses or additional vegetables for an even more personalized touch!