Golden, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy this Brussels Sprouts Gratin is a game-changer. Even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics won’t be able to resist these tender sprouts smothered in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. The crispy, golden-brown topping? Pure magic.
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Whether you’re making this for a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or just treating yourself to something decadent, this dish brings the ultimate comfort food vibes with a touch of elegance. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why Brussels sprouts ever had a bad reputation!
Why You’ll Love Brussels Sprouts Gratin
This dish is the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
Creamy & Cheesy Goodness
A velvety sauce made with cream, garlic, and cheese coats each Brussels sprout for a luxurious bite.
Crispy, Golden Perfection
The baked, bubbly cheese topping gives this dish an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy center.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Great as a holiday side or a cozy weeknight indulgence. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for everyday cooking.
Kid-Approved
Even picky eaters will fall for this dish—because everything is better when it’s covered in cheese!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Assemble it in advance, pop it in the fridge, and bake when ready. No last-minute stress required!
Ingredients in Brussels Sprouts Gratin
Here’s what makes this dish so delicious:
Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show! Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them tender and caramelized.
Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats every bite.
Garlic & Shallots: Adds depth of flavor with a touch of sweetness and warmth.
Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and nutty, this adds a savory punch to the sauce.
Gruyère Cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the gratin that irresistible gooeyness.
Butter: Helps everything meld together while adding richness.
Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden topping for the perfect textural contrast.
Nutmeg: A hint of warm spice that subtly enhances the cream sauce.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance flavors.
Olive Oil: Used to lightly roast the Brussels sprouts for extra caramelization.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s bring this creamy, cheesy masterpiece to life:
Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends and cut them in half. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast for Maximum Flavor: Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan, Gruyère, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Everything: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts into a baking dish, then pour the cheese sauce over them.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese for that golden, crispy finish.
Bake Until Bubbly: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve & Enjoy: Let it rest for a few minutes, then dig into the creamy, crispy goodness!
How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Gratin
This dish is versatile and pairs well with many meals. Here are some ideas:
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef for a hearty meal.
With Crusty Bread: Scoop up every bit of that cheesy sauce with warm, crusty bread.
Paired with a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the gratin.
Topped with Bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for an extra flavor boost.
Additional Tips
Roast First for Better Texture: Pre-roasting the Brussels sprouts prevents them from becoming soggy in the sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.
Make it Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
Add a Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a nice contrast to the richness.
Double the Recipe for a Crowd: It’s always a hit at gatherings, so consider making extra!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A1: Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Assemble everything up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to [time duration].
Q4: Can I freeze Brussels Sprouts Gratin?
A4: Yes! Freeze after baking, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Q6: Can I use a different cheese?
A6: Definitely! Try cheddar, fontina, or gouda for a twist.
Q7: How can I make it lighter?
A7: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt.
Q8: What can I serve with this dish?
A8: It pairs beautifully with steak, roasted chicken, or even as a vegetarian main dish.
Q9: Can I add other vegetables?
A9: Yes! Mushrooms, cauliflower, or leeks make great additions.
Q10: Is this dish keto-friendly?
A10: Yes, just skip the breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds as a topping!
Final Thoughts
Brussels Sprouts Gratin takes this humble vegetable to the next level, transforming it into a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something indulgent, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Brussels Sprouts Gratin
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: FRENCH
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy Brussels Sprouts Gratin is the perfect elegant side dish! Tender Brussels sprouts are enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce and topped with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb crust. With crispy bacon and rich flavors, this dish pairs well with any meal and can even be made ahead!
Ingredients
- Butter, oil, or cooking spray (for the baking dish)
- 6 strips bacon, diced
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts (small to medium), outer leaves removed, stems trimmed, halved
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups grated sharp white Cheddar cheese (or Gruyere, Fontina, or Brie)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 slices butter-flavored bread (such as brioche), coarsely ground
- 2 tbsp salted butter, softened (or unsalted butter with a pinch of salt)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease an oval gratin-style baking dish with butter, oil, or cooking spray.
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Blanch the Brussels Sprouts:
- Prepare an ice bath. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil (about 2 tbsp salt).
- Drop in the Brussels sprouts and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain and transfer to the ice bath. Drain again and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
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Cook the Bacon:
- In a deep skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon drippings in the pan.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Whisk flour into the reserved bacon drippings and cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, cooking until slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add shredded cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
-
Assemble the Gratin:
- Stir Brussels sprouts and bacon into the cheese sauce, coating evenly.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
-
Make the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, butter, and Parmesan cheese with your hands until well combined.
- Scatter over the Brussels sprouts.
-
Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- If breadcrumbs brown too quickly, cover lightly with foil at the 15-minute mark.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the gratin in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Cheese Variations: Swap white Cheddar for Gruyere or Brie for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestion: Pairs well with roast chicken, steak, or holiday dinners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 451
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 90mg