Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that will convert even the staunchest Brussels sprouts skeptics, let me introduce you to my Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, crowned with a molten, golden cap of cheese—utterly irresistible and truly a game changer for your dinner spread!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with a handful of familiar pantry and fridge staples, but each ingredient truly shines. From the Brussels sprouts’ earthy bite to the trifecta of gooey cheeses, every piece works in harmony to create undeniable magic in your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin.

• Brussels sprouts (16 ounces): Fresh is best—halved for maximum surface area to soak up all the garlicky, creamy goodness.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): The base for infusing spectacular garlic flavor throughout the dish.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp! Freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with aromatic warmth.
• Heavy cream (½ cup): Brings the luxurious, silky texture that transforms the sprouts into pure comfort food.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance—taste and adjust as needed.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
• Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Layers in even more mellow, savory garlic flavor.
• Nutmeg (⅛ teaspoon): Just a pinch, but oh-so-important—nutmeg gives the cream a cozy depth and hint of sweetness.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup, shredded): Adds sharp, salty notes and the perfect crispy top after baking.
• Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): For melty richness and bold flavor.
• Fontina cheese (1 cup, shredded): Delivers ultra-creamy melt and a slight nutty sweetness to complement the sprouts.

Variations

One of the best things about Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin is how flexible it is—you can easily make it your own! Here are just a few tasty twists to match your mood, pantry, or dietary needs.

• Bacon Lover’s: Stir in some crispy bacon or pancetta for irresistible smoky crunch and extra indulgence.
• Low-Carb Swap: Make it keto-friendly by skipping the cheddar and using gruyère or Swiss cheese for even less carbs.
• Gluten-Free Update: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check all packaged cheeses and seasonings for hidden gluten.
• Herbed Gratin: Toss in fresh chopped thyme or rosemary before baking for an aromatic twist.
• Extra Veggies: Try folding in some sautéed mushrooms or a handful of spinach for a heartier veggie casserole.

How to Make Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by moving your oven rack to the center and preheating your oven to 375ºF. Meanwhile, give your Brussels sprouts a good wash, trim the tough stems, and slice them in half so they’ll roast up tender and perfect. Go ahead and shred your parmesan, cheddar, and fontina cheese, then combine them together in a bowl—this helps ensure even cheesiness in every bite.

Step 2: Infuse the Garlic Cream

Melt the butter in an oven-safe skillet or braiser over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Let the garlic gently soften and work its magic—you want it aromatic and just barely golden, not browned (which can turn it bitter). When the garlic is fragrant and softened, remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Drop in half of the shredded cheese blend and stir so it starts to melt right into the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Add your halved Brussels sprouts to the hot skillet, stirring well so they’re coated in every last drop of that dreamy sauce. Spread the mixture into an even layer, then sprinkle the rest of your cheese over the top. Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 18–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender. The aroma is guaranteed to bring everyone to the kitchen!

How to Serve Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

Garnishes

Just before serving, try showering your Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin with a sprinkle of extra parmesan, a bit of freshly cracked black pepper, or a scattering of chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and herbal lift. For something a little decadent, crisped bacon or toasted breadcrumbs add wonderful crunch!

Side Dishes

This gratin absolutely shines beside roasted chicken, juicy pork tenderloin, or a seared steak. For vegetarian mains, serve it alongside a hearty lentil loaf or a big salad—you’ll love how the creaminess balances bolder flavors on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, portion the gratin into mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for individual servings—everyone gets their own bubbling, cheesy top! Or, scoop leftovers onto thick, crusty toast for a bold, savory brunch. Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin also makes a lovely addition to holiday buffets or potlucks, where it’s guaranteed to steal the side-dish spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavor only deepens as it sits, making it a fantastic next-day treat.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh for its dreamy, creamy texture, you can freeze cooled, baked leftovers if you need to. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month, but expect the cheese sauce to separate ever-so-slightly when reheated—still delicious, just a touch less creamy.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 325ºF oven, covered, until hot throughout; remove the cover toward the end if you’d like to re-crisp the cheesy topping. A splash of cream or milk will help revive the sauce’s creaminess if it thickens in storage.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t say enough good things about Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin—it’s comfort food magic that’s worthy of any table, from casual weeknight dinner to holiday feasts. I hope you give it a try and discover just how special Brussels sprouts can be when dressed up with cream, garlic, and cheese. Happy cooking!

Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin Recipe

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Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Garlicky Creamy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin. This dish elevates the humble brussels sprouts with a luscious blend of cheeses and aromatic garlic, creating a decadent side that’s perfect for any meal.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Brussels Sprouts:

• 16 ounces brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed, and halved

Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Cheese Blend:

• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded fontina cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375ºF.
2. Prep: Clean and trim the brussels sprouts, shred the fontina, cheddar, and parmesan cheese. Combine shredded cheeses in a bowl and set aside.
3. Infuse: Heat a skillet over medium heat with butter and garlic. Let garlic soften in the butter. Remove from heat, add cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, and half of the cheese blend.
4. Bake: Add brussels sprouts to the pan, mix with the sauce, and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 18-25 minutes until sprouts are tender and cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 60mg