Easy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe to Try

If you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with the delightful bite of green veggies, this Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is a must-try. It’s a warm, comforting dish where tender Brussels sprouts get smothered in a luscious cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a standout side during the holidays, this recipe brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite that even Brussels sprouts skeptics will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The velvety cheese sauce perfectly coats the Brussels sprouts, creating a mouthwatering sensation.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh produce, no complicated shopping required.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or special occasions — this dish fits every table.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you want it spicy, meaty, or extra cheesy, this recipe welcomes your creative spin.
• Keeps Leftovers Well: Bake it, store it, and enjoy the next day without losing flavor or texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that define Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin. Each element plays a key role in flavor, texture, or color, making this dish truly irresistible.

• Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Provides the hearty, mildly nutty base packed with nutrients and bite.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps cook the aromatics perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour: Acts as the thickening agent for the creamy cheese sauce.
• Milk or Heavy Cream: Creates the smooth, luscious texture that coats the sprouts.
• Gruyère Cheese: Offers a rich, nutty flavor and melts beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers a sharp, salty finish that elevates the dish.
• Garlic: Infuses a subtle, aromatic kick that complements the cheese perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Paprika or Nutmeg (optional): Adds a warm, gentle spice to deepen the sauce profile.

Variations for Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Ready to personalize your Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin? This recipe is a fantastic canvas to experiment with, easily adjusted to fit your dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or cravings. Here are some fun ideas to take it to the next level.

• Adding Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory burst that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Using Different Cheese: Swap Gruyère for cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix to tweak flavor richness and melt quality.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese for a delightful allergy-friendly twist.
• Including Nuts: Toasted almonds or pecans add crunch and an earthy flavor contrast.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or sliced jalapeños can bring a lively kick to this comfort food.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends and halving your Brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until just tender, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour and whisk constantly to create a roux. Slowly add milk or cream, whisking to prevent lumps, and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese, along with salt, pepper, and optional spices.

Step 3: Combine and Transfer

Gently fold the blanched Brussels sprouts into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish for even browning.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Pre-Cook the Sprouts: Blanching Brussels sprouts softens their bite and reduces cooking time in the oven.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and improves sauce texture compared to pre-shredded versions.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: Making a proper roux ensures your cheese sauce thickens without lumps.
• Watch the Oven: Baking too long can dry out the dish; aim for a bubbly, lightly browned top.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or nuts on top before baking for a delightful crisp finish.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the creamy richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or beef, or alongside simple mashed potatoes for an indulgent comfort meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant touch, or layer it as a casserole during family dinners to keep everyone cozy and satisfied.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its creamy texture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! Let it cool fully, then freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to restore the delightful baked texture. Avoid microwaving to keep things from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.

What type of cheese works best for Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Gruyère is classic for its meltability and flavor, but cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella also work well depending on your taste.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat add-ins and ensure you use vegetarian-friendly cheese to keep it meat-free.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy with plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.

How long does it take to prepare and bake Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Approximately 10-15 minutes for prep and about 20-25 minutes for baking, making it a fairly quick and straightforward side dish.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is a simple and scrumptious way to enjoy a veggie side loaded with creamy cheese goodness. Whether for a weeknight treat or a festive table centerpiece, it’s bound to become a new favorite. Give it a try soon and watch those Brussels sprouts disappear!

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