Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake. This creamy, cheesy dish takes the humble Brussels sprout to new heights, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake Journey
Growing up, my family didn’t always see eye to eye on vegetables, but Brussels sprouts were a different story. My grandmother had a knack for transforming ordinary veggies into extraordinary dishes. One of her favorites was a cheesy Brussels sprouts bake that always brought smiles to our faces. It was a staple at family dinners, and I’ve carried that love for this dish into my own kitchen, putting my twist on it with garlic and a trio of cheeses.
What Makes This Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its creamy texture and irresistible cheesy flavor. The combination of Parmesan, cheddar, and fontina creates a rich and gooey topping that perfectly complements the tender Brussels sprouts. The addition of garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all ages and skill levels.
The Full Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed, and halved
- 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
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the center. This will ensure even baking.
- Clean and trim the Brussels sprouts. Shred the fontina, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, and combine them in a bowl. Set aside.
- In an oven-proof pan like a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it simmer in the butter without browning, about 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, and half of the combined shredded cheese. Stir until well blended.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan, coating them evenly in the creamy sauce. Spread them out in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sprouts for a deliciously cheesy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sprouts are cooked through. Keep an eye on the cheese to avoid burning.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish with your favorite protein and other sides! Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake
This Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish. For an extra crunch and flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What if I don’t have Brussels sprouts? While Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish, you can substitute them with other vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli for a similar creamy bake.
Is this dish suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the baked dish after it has cooled completely. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 280
- Servings: 4
Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts Bake
Equipment
- Oven-proof pan or cast iron skillet For baking the dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces Brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed, and halved
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.125 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.5 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the center.
- Clean and trim the Brussels sprouts. Shred the fontina, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, and combine them in a bowl. Set aside.
- In an oven-proof pan like a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it simmer in the butter without browning, about 1-2 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, and half of the combined shredded cheese. Stir until well blended.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan, coating them evenly in the creamy sauce. Spread them out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sprouts for a deliciously cheesy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sprouts are cooked through.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish with your favorite protein and other sides!