Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Gratin from Brussels Blah to Brussels Bravissimo
Recipe Introduction: Get Ready for Cheesy Brussels Sprouts !
Fancy making cheesy brussels sprouts that even sprout haters will love? Honestly, I used to turn my nose up at them.
Then, I discovered this recipe. This transforms the humble sprout into a creamy, cheesy dream. It is so easy!
From Brussels Blah to Brussels Bravissimo!
This cheesy brussel sprout gratin ain't your average side dish. Imagine perfectly roasted brussel sprouts coated in a divine cheese sauce .
Originating as a way to make sprouts more appealing, this gratin is pure comfort. It’s easy, ready in under an hour, and serves 6-8.
Why You'll Obsess Over This Brussel Sprout Side Dish
What makes this brussels sprouts with cheese recipe so special? First off, the nutrition! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins.
Plus, the cheesy sauce makes them irresistible. Serve this at your next Sunday roast, or even better, as a notable thanksgiving side dish brussels sprouts ! It’s also pretty epic as a christmas side dish brussels sprouts .
Key Ingredients: What Makes This Recipe Work?
We're talking fresh sprouts, good quality cheese, and a touch of love. The recipe calls for Gruyère and cheddar, but feel free to mix it up.
Some folks like gruyere cheese brussels sprouts , others are cheddar brussels sprouts fans. Don’t forget the optional panko breadcrumb topping brussel sprouts for that extra crunch.
You know? You can find the full list just below.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cookin'!
Right, so you're ready to make some cheesy brussels sprouts . Fab! Before we get started, let's make sure we've got all our ducks in a row.
Trust me, nothing's worse than getting halfway through and realising you're missing something vital.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show!
Okay, here's what you'll need for this brussel sprout side dish . I've included both US and metric measurements because, you know, we're fancy like that.
- Brussels Sprouts: 1.5 lbs (680g), trimmed and halved (or quartered if they're massive). Try to find sprouts that are firm and tightly packed. Avoid any that are yellowing or have black spots.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml). This helps the roasted brussel sprouts to get nice and crispy.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g). You can use table salt, but kosher salt just tastes better, you know?
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g). Freshly ground is always best.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 2 teaspoons). Garlic makes everything better!
And now, For that luscious cheese sauce . I've always wanted to make a yummy gruyere cheese brussels sprouts
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g). Unsalted is key.
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons (30g). This helps to thicken the sauce.
- Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml). Full fat milk gives the richest flavour.
- Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g). Just a pinch adds a lovely warmth.
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g).
- Dijon Mustard: 1/2 teaspoon (3g). This adds a little zing.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Don't skip this! It adds a fantastic umami flavour.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g), or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g), or to taste.
- Gruyère Cheese: 1 cup (113g), shredded. Gruyère is classic for a cheesy brussel sprout gratin but feel free to get creative!.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (113g), shredded. For that cheddar brussels sprouts flavour we all like.
Panko breadcrumb topping brussel sprouts optional:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g). Adds a lovely crunch.
- Melted Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g).
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town, Population: You!
The spice combo for the cheese sauce is crucial. Nutmeg, garlic powder, Dijon, and Worcestershire work wonders. Play around with it a bit!.
A pinch of cayenne pepper will give it a subtle kick. Seriously, though, adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don't be afraid to taste as you go!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!
Right, kit time. You don't need anything too fancy for this easy brussel sprouts recipe .
- Large baking sheet. A good size one to spread out the sprouts.
- Large skillet or saucepan. For making the cheese sauce.
- 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. For baking the cheesy brussels sprouts gratin.
If you don't have a skillet, a large pot will do. And if you don't have a baking dish that exact size, anything similar will work just fine.
This is cooking, not rocket science! Time to create the perfect thanksgiving side dish brussel sprouts or maybe christmas side dish brussel sprouts .
Unlocking the Secrets to Perfect Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
Honestly, who doesn't love a good brussel sprout side dish ? I know, I know, they get a bad rep.
But trust me, this cheesy brussels sprouts gratin recipe will change your mind. We're not talking about those sad, boiled sprouts your nan used to make.
We're talking roasted brussel sprouts cheese sauce heaven. This easy brussel sprouts recipe is so good, it might just become your new favourite.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place for Success
First, let's get organised. Wash and trim 1.5 lbs (680g) of Brussels sprouts. Slice them in half, or quarter if they are big.
Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Next, measure out all your other ingredients. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes life so much easier! Trust me on this.
Level Up Your Sprouts: The step-by-step
Ready to transform those little green cabbages? Let's do it!
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . This is a must!
- Toss the sprouts with 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) pepper, and the minced garlic. Get them all nice and coated.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd ! This is key for getting them nice and crispy.
- Roast for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway. They should be tender and slightly browned.
- While the sprouts roast, make the cheese sauce. Melt 4 tablespoons (57g) butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 4 tablespoons (30g) flour and cook for 1- 2 minutes .
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups (710ml) of milk. Add 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon (3g) Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) pepper. Keep whisking until it thickens, about 5- 7 minutes .
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (113g) gruyere cheese brussels sprouts and 1 cup (113g) cheddar brussels sprouts until melted and smooth. Mmm, cheesy goodness.
- Toss the roasted sprouts with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. If you want that extra crunch, mix 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumb topping brussel sprouts with 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 10- 15 minutes , until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Perfection
Honestly, the biggest mistake people make? Not roasting the sprouts long enough. Get some colour on them! And don't skimp on the cheese.
Use good quality stuff for the best flavour. make-ahead? You can roast the sprouts and make the cheese sauce a day in advance.
Just assemble and bake when you're ready. This thanksgiving side dish brussel sprouts or christmas side dish brussel sprouts will be a hit! This brussels sprouts with cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, even with sprout skeptics.
Recipe Notes for Epic Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
Alright, buttercup, let's talk about getting this cheesy brussel sprout gratin just right. Honestly, these aren't your average sprouts. We're going for brussel sprout side dish royalty here!
Serving Suggestions: Plating & Perfect Pairings
Listen up, plating matters! I reckon piling this high in a rustic dish makes it extra inviting. Or go posh and serve individual portions in ramekins.
For the perfect pairing, thanksgiving side dish brussel sprouts goes brilliantly with roast turkey. Or maybe a hearty gammon at christmas side dish brussel sprouts .
A crisp white wine or a proper pint of ale? Yes, please!
Storage Tips: Keeping the Cheesy Dream Alive
Right, if you have leftovers (unlikely, mind you!), here's the lowdown. Pop them in the fridge within two hours, in an airtight container.
They will keep for 3 days tops. Freezing? Hmm, not ideal because the cheese sauce might get a bit weird.
Reheating is best done in the oven ( 350° F / 175° C ) until bubbly, or in the microwave if you're in a proper hurry.
Just sayin'.
Variations: Remixing Your Brussels Sprouts with Cheese Recipe
Okay, fancy a twist? For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Easy peasy! Want to lighten it up? Sub half the milk with vegetable stock.
You could also swap in some seasonal ingredients. Butternut squash? Autumn gold, I tell you! Another idea: Use panko breadcrumb topping brussel sprouts , for crispy heaven.
Or even cheddar brussels sprouts . The cheese sauce could get a remix, adding gruyere cheese brussels sprouts , maybe.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
This easy brussel sprouts recipe isn't just tasty, it's secretly healthy ish! Sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K. The cheese adds protein and calcium.
Balance, innit? Just remember to enjoy everything in moderation.
Honestly, this cheesy brussels sprouts recipe is dead simple and guaranteed to impress. Give it a go, and don't be afraid to put your own spin on it! You'll be saying "Oh my gosh!" after your first bite and will become your next favorite roasted brussel sprouts cheese sauce .
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My cheesy brussels sprouts are soggy, not crispy. What did I do wrong?
Oh dear, a soggy sprout is no fun! This usually happens when the sprouts are overcrowded on the baking sheet, causing them to steam instead of roast. Make sure to spread them in a single layer with some breathing room; use two baking sheets if needed.
Also, ensure your oven is at the right temperature a hot oven is key to crispy sprouts.
Can I make cheesy brussels sprouts ahead of time? Like, proper 'Blue Peter' style preparation?
You can indeed get ahead! Roast the sprouts and make the cheese sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. Assemble the cheesy brussels sprouts gratin just before baking. This prevents the sprouts from getting soggy. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through.
I’m trying to be a bit healthier. Are there any lighter substitutions I can make to these cheesy brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! You can use a lower fat milk in the cheese sauce and reduce the amount of butter slightly. Greek yogurt can also replace a portion of the cheese sauce for extra creaminess and protein. A lighter cheese like a reduced fat cheddar works well.
Consider skipping the breadcrumb topping too, for a small calorie saving!
What's the best way to store leftover cheesy brussels sprouts, and how long will they last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. Keep in mind that the sprouts may soften slightly upon reheating, but they'll still be delicious!
Can I add bacon to these cheesy brussels sprouts? Because, let's be honest, everything's better with bacon.
You read my mind! Bacon and cheesy brussels sprouts are a match made in heaven. Cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the Brussels sprouts before pouring over the cheese sauce. This adds a delicious smoky flavour and a satisfying crunch. Consider adding some pancetta for some added taste as well.
I don't have Gruyère, what else can I use in my cheesy brussels sprouts?
No Gruyère? No worries! Swiss cheese is a great substitute, offering a similar nutty flavor. Fontina or Jarlsberg would also work well. Really, any cheese that melts beautifully and has a slightly nutty taste will do the trick.
Just steer clear of anything too strong, which might overpower the flavour of the sprouts.
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Gratin From Brussels Bla
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 18g |
