There is something undeniably comforting about a cheesy, creamy casserole that elevates humble vegetables into the star of the meal, and this Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe does exactly that. It transforms fresh Brussels sprouts into a luscious, golden-topped delight where tender greens meet a rich cheese sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply crave a cozy side dish, this recipe delivers warmth and depth with every bite, making Brussels sprouts an irresistible option on your dinner table.

Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in their simplicity but each plays a vital role in crafting a Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe that’s deeply flavorful and texturally delightful. From the creamy cheeses to the crunchy breadcrumbs, everything enhances the dish’s appeal.

Brussels sprouts: Fresh and trimmed, halving them ensures even cooking and a perfect tender bite.
Butter: Adds richness and forms the flavorful base for the garlic and cream sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced to infuse a subtle, aromatic punch.
Heavy cream: The key to that smooth, velvety cheese sauce that coats every sprout lovingly.
Gruyère or cheddar cheese: Provides a melty, savory depth that defines the gratin’s character.
Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor and helps create a crispy golden crust.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
Nutmeg (optional): A tiny pinch adds warmth and a subtle aromatic layer to the sauce.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Brussels Sprouts

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which ensures it’s hot and ready when your gratin goes in. While the oven warms, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts — this step is crucial to making sure they cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Brussels Sprouts

Steam or boil the Brussels sprouts just until they’re tender, around 5 to 7 minutes. This initial cooking softens them but keeps a lovely slight bite. After boiling or steaming, drain them thoroughly to avoid any excess water diluting your rich sauce.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic, sautéing it until it releases a fragrant aroma that teases your senses. Then pour in the heavy cream, seasoning with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to build layers of flavor. Let this simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens, primed to envelop your sprouts.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Gruyère (or cheddar) along with half of the Parmesan cheese. Watch as the cheeses melt smoothly into the cream, creating a luscious, velvety sauce that promises richness and depth in every spoonful.

Step 5: Assemble the Gratin

Place your tender Brussels sprouts evenly in a greased baking dish, then lavish the creamy cheese sauce over them ensuring every sprout is generously coated. This careful layering makes the gratin irresistibly indulgent and comforting.

Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping

Mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese and sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of your dish. This finishing touch will brown beautifully in the oven, offering a crispy contrast to the creamy base beneath.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the gratin uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and bubbles enthusiastically—your cue that the flavors have melded into something truly special.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes after baking. This resting period helps the sauce set slightly, making serving neater and allowing those flavors to settle into a harmonious balance that makes the Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe so memorable.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives over the hot gratin adds a bright burst of color and a mild herbal note that enhances the dish’s richness while keeping it fresh on the palate.

Side Dishes

This Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, or serves as a hearty vegetarian main alongside a crisp green salad or buttery mashed potatoes, offering nicely balanced meal options for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual ramekins for a charming presentation that feels extra special, or serve the gratin family-style in a rustic cast-iron skillet to keep it warm throughout the meal and invite everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gratin keeps its flavors well, making it an easy and satisfying next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked gratin by wrapping it tightly and placing it in a freezer-safe container. For best texture, consume within 1 to 2 months and avoid freezing the freshly prepared raw gratin to maintain the breadcrumb crunch.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping regains some crispness, or microwave in shorter bursts to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of Gruyère?

Absolutely! Cheddar works wonderfully for a sharper flavor, or you can experiment with fontina or mozzarella for a milder, creamier twist. Just be sure the cheese melts well to maintain that creamy texture.

Is it necessary to steam the Brussels sprouts before baking?

Yes, steaming them until just tender helps ensure the sprouts cook evenly and don’t remain tough after baking. It also prevents the gratin from becoming watery by draining excess moisture up front.

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

To make a vegan Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe, substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use coconut or cashew cream for the sauce, and replace cheese with vegan cheese alternatives. Adjust seasonings accordingly for a delicious twist.

What’s the best breadcrumb to parmesan ratio for the topping?

Using a half-and-half mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan gives you the perfect balance of crispy texture and cheesy flavor. Too much cheese can make the topping greasy, while too many breadcrumbs might lack flavor.

Can this be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed — keep an eye on the gratin so it browns evenly and remains bubbly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a celebration of flavor and comfort. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender sprouts and a crunchy topping makes it a dish worth making again and again. Give it a try and watch Brussels sprouts become your new favorite side dish that everyone will love.