Experience culinary bliss with our Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts recipe, where tender Brussels sprouts are transformed into a decadent side dish bathed in a velvety sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This elegant yet easy-to-make dish promises to elevate any meal, adding a touch of sophistication and indulgence to your dinner table. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the perfect harmony of flavors awaiting your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Begin by heating olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and minced garlic, sautéing until the Brussels sprouts are nearly tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the Brussels sprouts aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cornstarch, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, allowing the sauce to simmer until it thickens to perfection.
- Return the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat each piece in the creamy sauce. Let them cook until they’re warmed through and generously coated with the savory goodness of the sauce.
- Serve the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts hot, presenting a side dish that’s bound to impress both family and guests alike with its exquisite flavor profile and irresistible allure.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Servings: 6
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. It adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances the dish’s presentation.
- Pair with Protein: Complement the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The creamy sauce and tender Brussels sprouts make the perfect accompaniment to a hearty main course.
- Serve as a Holiday Side Dish: Elevate your holiday feast by featuring these Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts as a side dish. Their rich and comforting flavors will impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
- Reheat with Care: To maintain the creamy texture of the sauce and prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming mushy, reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup.
- Freeze for Future Enjoyment: While Brussels sprouts can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing, resulting in a less desirable texture. If you do choose to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1-2 months for the best quality.
- Use as a Pasta Sauce: Repurpose leftover Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts by tossing them with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful meal. The creamy sauce will coat the pasta beautifully, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
- Customize with Additional Ingredients: Add your favorite ingredients to the dish for extra flavor and texture. Consider mixing in crispy bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
- Serve at Brunch: These Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts make a delightful addition to brunch menus. Serve them alongside eggs Benedict, quiche, or breakfast potatoes for a luxurious and satisfying brunch experience.
- Double the Recipe for Large Gatherings: If you’re hosting a large gathering or holiday meal, consider doubling or tripling the recipe to ensure there’s enough to go around. These Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts anytime, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast.
Variations:
- Bacon Lover’s Twist: For a smoky flavor boost, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts before serving. The salty bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender Brussels sprouts for a decadent twist.
- Crunchy Panko Topping: Elevate the texture of the dish by sprinkling toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top before serving. The crispy breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy Brussels sprouts.
- Herb-infused Cream Sauce: Enhance the flavor profile of the creamy sauce by infusing it with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage. Simply simmer the herbs in the cream before adding it to the Brussels sprouts for a fragrant and herbaceous twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the creamy sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference for a flavorful and zesty variation.
- Mushroom Medley: Enhance the earthy flavor of the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms to the creamy sauce. Choose your favorite variety, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms, and cook them until golden brown before mixing them with the Brussels sprouts.
- Nutty Parmesan Crust: For a crispy and cheesy topping, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts before baking. Broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese forms a golden crust for added flavor and texture.
- Caramelized Onion Upgrade: Elevate the sweetness of the dish by adding caramelized onions to the creamy sauce. Cook thinly sliced onions low and slow until golden brown and caramelized, then stir them into the sauce for a rich and savory variation.
- Vegan Option: For a dairy-free and vegan version of the dish, substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively. The coconut cream adds creaminess, while the nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Lemon Zest and Dill: Brighten up the flavors of the dish by adding freshly grated lemon zest and chopped dill to the creamy sauce. The citrusy zest and herbal dill complement the richness of the sauce and add a refreshing twist.
- Gruyère Cheese Variation: For a nutty and tangy flavor profile, substitute Gruyère cheese for the Parmesan cheese in the recipe. The Gruyère melts beautifully into the creamy sauce, adding depth of flavor and a creamy texture to the Brussels sprouts.
These variations offer creative ways to customize your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts and tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create a unique and delicious twist on this classic recipe.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in this recipe. However, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the dish.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Absolutely! Vegetable broth can be used as a suitable substitute for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. It will still impart flavor to the creamy sauce without the need for meat-based broth.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Cook the Brussels sprouts and make the sauce separately, then combine them and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
- Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan? Yes, you can experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Asiago, Romano, or even white cheddar can be used as alternatives to Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Is this dish suitable for a low-carb or keto diet? While Brussels sprouts are relatively low in carbs, the creamy sauce may contain cornstarch, which adds some carbohydrates. To make it more keto-friendly, you can omit the cornstarch or use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this dish by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
With our Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts recipe, you’re invited to indulge in a culinary journey where simplicity meets elegance. Elevate your dinner table with this luxurious side dish that harmonizes tender Brussels sprouts with a creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to add a touch of sophistication and flavor to every meal. So, gather your ingredients and savor the creamy, garlicky goodness that awaits within each bite of these Brussels sprouts.
