If you’ve been searching for a delightful way to enjoy your Brussels sprouts, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It’s a heavenly blend of tender, caramelized sprouts swimming in a rich, cheesy cream sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance, turning a humble vegetable into the star of your table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday feast, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the crispness of fresh Brussels sprouts to the lush creaminess of heavy cream, every item is essential.
- Brussels sprouts (1½ pounds, trimmed and halved): Fresh and firm sprouts ensure the best texture and taste.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps with roasting.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a savory aroma and depth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, creamy base that coats the sprouts beautifully.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who love a hint of heat.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Brings a nutty, salty tang that enriches the dish.
- Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts into gooey perfection, adding creaminess and stretch.
- Breadcrumbs (¼ cup, optional topping): Offers a satisfying crunch when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Toss the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming and halving your Brussels sprouts to ensure each piece cooks evenly. Toss them lovingly in olive oil and minced garlic right in an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. This step is where the sprouts start to absorb the rich garlic fragrance and get a light coating that will help them roast to perfection.
Step 2: Season and Add Cream
Next, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and if you’re going bold, crushed red pepper flakes over the sprouts. The seasoning layers are crucial because they highlight the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Pour your heavy cream evenly over everything, then gently stir to make sure all sprouts get that creamy embrace without breaking apart.
Step 3: Layer the Cheeses and Breadcrumbs
Now for the best part—sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over your creamy sprouts. The Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor while mozzarella melts into a rich, milky blanket. If you want a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible, scattering breadcrumbs on top will create a golden, crunchy crust once baked.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover your dish with foil and pop it into a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Baking covered for about 15 minutes allows the cream to gently bubble and the sprouts to start softening without drying out. This step sets the stage for a tender, luscious final dish where flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 5: Bake Uncovered to Finish
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are perfectly tender and the top is gloriously golden and bubbly. This uncovered baking brings out a touch of caramelization and a slight crisp that’s the hallmark of a great Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can add a lovely finishing touch. These garnishes not only brighten up the dish visually but also add fresh notes that balance the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Think juicy roasted chicken, a tender steak, or even a flavorful grain bowl. It also stands out as a comforting side during festive dinners, perfectly complementing hearty mains like turkey or ham.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make this dish pop at your next gathering? Serve it in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven for a warm and homey vibe. For a more elegant touch, portion it into individual ramekins and top with a crisp breadcrumb layer just before baking. No matter the presentation, this recipe shines with its inviting creaminess and vibrant green sprouts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making your next meal just as enjoyable. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture without drying out.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked sprouts for up to one month. Place portions into freezer-safe containers or wraps, but know the texture of the sprouts might be slightly softer upon thawing due to the cream.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a low oven or microwave, covered to keep moisture in. Adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese before warming can help revive the creamy, luscious feel of the dish. Just be careful not to overheat and dry it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts give the best texture and flavor, frozen can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture which can make the dish watery.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and use dairy-free cheeses to keep it creamy without dairy. The roasting and garlic still provide lots of flavor.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, try Gruyère or sharp white cheddar for a stronger, more distinct cheesy flavor. Both melt beautifully and add a delicious twist to this recipe.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! The optional crushed red pepper flakes add a nice subtle heat. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper or drizzle with a spicy chili oil before baking for a bolder kick.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are cooked perfectly?
They should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape without becoming mushy. The top will be golden and bubbling, signaling that creamy, cheesy goodness is ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a wonderful way to transform a simple vegetable into something truly special. The balance of textures and flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds, making it an instant favorite. Give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to side dish that feels like a comforting celebration in every bite.
Print
Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts recipe offers a deliciously rich and cheesy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Tossed in garlic and olive oil, then baked in a luscious heavy cream sauce with Parmesan and mozzarella, these Brussels sprouts become tender, golden, and full of flavor. Perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for baking the Brussels sprouts evenly.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil and minced garlic to coat them thoroughly, infusing flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the Brussels sprouts for taste and mild heat.
- Add Cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the Brussels sprouts and gently stir to combine, ensuring every sprout is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add Cheeses and Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses evenly on top, followed by breadcrumbs if you prefer a crunchy topping.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the sprouts to cook and the cheeses to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot as a savory, creamy side dish to complement your main course.
Notes
- You can make this dish ahead by assembling everything in the baking dish, covering, and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Swap the mozzarella for Gruyère or sharp white cheddar to change the flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste and dietary preferences.
