Irresistible Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe

If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, you’re in the right place. This dish transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish bursting with rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures. Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want to elevate your veggies, Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin brings a golden, bubbly crust with a luscious, savory sauce that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet impressive: Combines straightforward ingredients into a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Comfort food vibes: Creamy cheese and tender Brussels sprouts create that perfect cozy sensation on your palate.
• Versatile and customizable: Easily adaptable to fit dietary needs or flavor preferences with a few ingredient swaps.
• Perfect side dish: Complements a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to hearty steaks effortlessly.
• Great for any season: Works wonderfully as a holiday centerpiece or a regular weeknight treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that bring depth, creaminess, and that coveted golden crust. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fresh Brussels sprouts’ slight earthiness to the melty cheese’s richness and the smooth, velvety sauce.

• Fresh Brussels sprouts: The star vegetable, trimmed and halved for even cooking and that perfect bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build a luscious roux for the creamy sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it that smooth, velvety texture.
• Milk: Creates the creamy base that coats each sprout beautifully.
• Grated Gruyère cheese: Offers a nutty, flavorful melt that’s signature to an au gratin dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick and helps form the irresistible golden crust.
• Garlic and onion powder: Subtle layers of savory aromatics to elevate flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance every bite.
• Bread crumbs: Optional, for an extra crispy, crunchy topping.

Variations for Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Feel free to tweak this Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe to match your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have in your pantry. It’s super adaptable and fun to experiment with.

• Vegan version: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Add bacon bits: Toss in crispy bacon for a smoky, savory twist that pairs perfectly with creamy sprouts.
• Use different cheeses: Swap Gruyère with cheddar or mozzarella for varied textures and flavors.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat and depth.
• Herb enhanced: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for aromatic complexity.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by washing, trimming, and cutting the Brussels sprouts in half. This ensures even cooking and plenty of surface area to soak up the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Blanch the Brussels Sprouts

Briefly boil the Brussels sprouts for 4-5 minutes until just tender, then drain well. This step softens them slightly while retaining their vibrant green color and prevents overcooking in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a smooth roux. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Lower the heat, then mix in Gruyère, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a luxuriously creamy and flavorful cheese sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Mix the blanched Brussels sprouts with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs and extra Parmesan on top for a crispy crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Trim and halve evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and enhances flavor absorption.
• Don’t skip blanching: It softens the sprouts and maintains vibrant color.
• Whisk constantly: To avoid lumps in your cheese sauce and achieve that perfectly creamy texture.
• Use freshly grated cheese: It melts smoother and contributes better flavor than pre-shredded options.
• Add a crispy topping: Bread crumbs or crushed crackers create wonderful texture contrast.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garnishes

Finish your Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin with fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This creamy, cheesy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin pairs perfectly with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, and complements mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties, or spoon into a rustic cast-iron skillet for a cozy, family-style presentation everyone can dig into.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin to room temperature, then cover tightly and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

Allow the dish to cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly, or use a microwave for a quicker option—just keep an eye on the texture to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s creaminess and the dish’s texture.

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

Gruyère is classic for its nutty flavor and meltability, but you can also mix in cheddar or Parmesan for additional richness and sharpness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses flour and bread crumbs, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour and gluten-free crumbs to make it gluten-free without losing texture.

Can I make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free cheese alternative, or nutritional yeast, to create a delicious vegan version that’s creamy and flavorful.

How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming mushy?

Blanch them briefly and avoid overcooking during baking; they should remain tender but still hold some bite for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin recipe is a fantastic way to turn a simple vegetable into a luscious, memorable dish. Whether for a holiday dinner or a comforting weeknight side, it’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this creamy, cheesy delight that makes Brussels sprouts shine like never before.

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