Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Delicious and garlicky, 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 mouthwatering. It comes together in one pan and is loaded with three types of cheeses. With a short ingredient list, the taste is simply FANTASTIC! Suitable for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or cozy dinners, it is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe features simple steps that make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and rich cheeses creates an irresistible flavor that enhances the natural taste of Brussels sprouts.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, weeknight meals, or potlucks, this dish pairs well with various proteins and other sides.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, making it convenient for busy cooks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and creamy texture, even those who aren’t fans of Brussels sprouts will love this dish!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or oven-proof pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or oven-proof pan: Ideal for both stovetop cooking and baking in the oven, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients with precision.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin, you will need the following 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: Prepare the Ingredients

1. While the oven preheats, clean and trim the brussels sprouts, then cut them in half.
2. Shred the fontina, cheddar, and parmesan cheese.
3. Combine all shredded cheeses in one bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 3: Infuse the Butter with Garlic

1. Heat an oven-proof pan over medium heat with the butter and minced garlic.
2. Allow the garlic flavor to infuse into the melted butter without browning it; it should soften and begin to simmer.
3. Turn off the stove when garlic starts simmering.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
5. Mix in half of your combined shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake Your Dish

1. Add the prepared brussels sprouts to the pan with cream sauce; stir well to coat them evenly.
2. Spread them out in a single layer within the pan.
3. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top of the brussels sprouts.
4. Place in your preheated oven and bake for 18-25 minutes or until cheese melts beautifully and sprouts are cooked through.

Serve warm alongside your favorite protein or other delicious sides! Enjoy this remarkable dish that combines comfort food with elegance—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. It pairs beautifully with various proteins and sides, making it a delightful addition to your table.

With Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of the Brussels sprouts, adding a savory flavor that works well together.

Alongside Beef Tenderloin

• The richness of beef tenderloin contrasts nicely with the garlicky cream, creating a gourmet dining experience.

As Part of a Vegetarian Feast

• Serve this dish alongside grains like quinoa or couscous for a satisfying vegetarian option that delights every palate.

With Grilled Turkey Burgers

• The freshness of grilled turkey burgers balances the richness of the au gratin, making for a delicious and hearty meal.

At Holiday Gatherings

• This dish makes an excellent centerpiece at holiday dinners, served with other festive dishes to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

How to Perfect Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Creating the perfect Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin can elevate your cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your dish stands out:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts have better flavor and texture than frozen ones, ensuring a delicious outcome.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooked sprouts can become mushy. Aim for tender yet firm sprouts for the best texture.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While this recipe uses three types of cheese, feel free to mix it up! Try gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cream sauce before adding the sprouts. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Add Crunch: For added texture, consider topping your au gratin with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before baking for a delightful crunch.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the cream sauce and assemble the dish ahead of time. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Best Side Dishes for Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Pairing side dishes with Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light and fluffy pilaf flavored with herbs complements the rich creaminess of the au gratin perfectly.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide additional comfort and pair wonderfully with this dish.

3. Roasted Root Vegetables
   A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes adds sweetness and color to your plate.

4. Herbed Rice
   Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs offers a simple yet tasty base that balances out the rich flavors.

5. Steamed Asparagus
   Crisp-tender asparagus brings freshness and brightness that contrast nicely with the creamy Brussels sprouts.

6. Cauliflower Rice
   This low-carb option serves as a great neutral base while allowing the flavors of your main dish to shine through.

7. Mixed Green Salad
   A refreshing salad topped with vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate after each rich bite of au gratin.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and earthiness, creating an appealing balance alongside creamy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin even more delicious. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts: Cooking your sprouts for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for tender sprouts that still hold their shape by checking them at the lower end of the cooking time.

• Not using fresh garlic: Using pre-minced or dried garlic can compromise flavor. Freshly minced garlic will infuse your dish with a robust, aromatic taste.

• Skipping the cheese blend: Sticking to only one type of cheese may result in a less complex flavor. Mixing cheeses like parmesan, cheddar, and fontina adds depth and creaminess to your gratin.

• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing your dish inside.

• Forgetting to season properly: Failing to add enough salt or pepper can dull the flavors. Taste your creamy sauce before adding the Brussels sprouts to adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label and date the container for easy identification.

Reheating Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin:

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using them in the recipe.

How can I customize my Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli for additional flavor and nutrition. You could also try different cheese varieties such as gouda or mozzarella.

What should I serve with Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin?

This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, beef, or turkey. It also complements a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly.

Final Thoughts

Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is a fantastic addition to any meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it appealing not only as a side dish but also as a comforting main course when paired with your favorite proteins. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or adjusting the cheese blend according to your tastes!