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As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, a warm, inviting aroma fills the kitchen, instantly transforming my home into a cozy retreat. That’s the magic of Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts! This comforting dish combines tender sprouts, perfectly roasted until caramelized, blanketed in a rich, creamy sauce topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. Perfect for cozy weeknights or festive gatherings, these Brussels sprouts are sure to bring a smile to the faces around your dinner table. What I love most about this recipe is its delightful mix of textures; each bite offers a pleasing crunch enveloped in creamy richness, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to shake off the sameness of fast food, this dish is a delicious way to fall back in love with home-cooked meals. Let’s dive in and create a side dish that not only satisfies but also warms the heart!

Why are Baked Brussels Sprouts a game-changer?

Comforting and delicious, these Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts elevate any meal with their rich flavors and textures. Easy to make, with simple ingredients, they can be enjoyed by everyone, from busy families to gourmet chefs. Versatile in nature, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or mix in crispy bacon for a savory twist. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is bound to be a favorite at your next holiday feast. Serve it alongside your favorite proteins, and watch your loved ones devour every bite!

Baked Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Fresh sprouts are key for the best flavor and texture; trim ends for even cooking.
• Olive Oil – Coats the sprouts for roasting; feel free to substitute with a neutral oil like canola for a lighter option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Cream Sauce
• Garlic – Adds a beautiful aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic will yield the best results.
• Heavy Cream – The star of the creamy sauce, providing luscious richness; can be substituted with milk or non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk.
• Parmesan Cheese – Creates a deliciously salty crust; you can also use Pecorino or another hard cheese for a different kick.

For the Topping
• More Parmesan Cheese – Ensures a crispy, golden topping; don’t skip this step for maximum flavor!

Embrace the magic of Baked Brussels Sprouts with this delightful combination of ingredients that will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting!

How to Make Baked Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect roasting temperature for your Brussels sprouts, helping them caramelize beautifully.
Rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts. Give them a quick rinse under cold water and trim the ends to promote even cooking. Then, slice them in half for optimal roasting.
Toss the halved sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. This step is essential for flavor and will help them roast to perfection.
Sauté minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want the garlic to burn.
Combine heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese in the skillet, stirring until well blended. Let the mixture come together to create a luxurious creamy sauce.
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a baking dish and pour the cream mixture evenly over them. Make sure every sprout gets a touch of that heavenly sauce.
Top the dish with the remaining Parmesan cheese. This will create a crispy, golden layer during baking that adds irresistible flavor.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. The sprout edges should be nicely caramelized, adding that wonderful crunch.
Cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to serve.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Baked Brussels Sprouts

Dry Sprouts: Ensure Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting for optimal crispiness. Excess moisture can lead to soggy sprouts.
Garlic Caution: Avoid burning the garlic while sautéing. If it turns too dark, it will impart a bitter taste to your creamy sauce.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different hard cheeses like Cheddar or Gouda for a unique flavor in your Baked Brussels Sprouts.
Add Crunch: For added texture and depth, mix in crispy bacon bits or pancetta before baking; they’ll bring a savory twist to the dish.
Serving Warm: Serve your Baked Brussels Sprouts immediately after baking for the best taste and texture. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

What to Serve with Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts?

Crafting a tantalizing meal is easy, especially with these delightful pairings that will complement the creamy richness of your Brussels sprouts.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken pairs perfectly, balancing the creaminess of the sprouts with savory depth.
Grilled Salmon: The light, flaky texture of salmon provides a fresh contrast to the rich and lush flavors of the dish, making each bite shine.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with fresh herbs adds a subtle earthiness, complementing the sprouts while soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and a way to scoop up the creamy sauce—the ultimate comfort!
Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tart, this zingy side brightens every bite of the sprouts, adding a holiday flair to your table.
Simple Greens Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate and balancing flavors beautifully.
Dry White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors—its acidity complements the creaminess and elevates your dining experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, nothing beats a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp, rounding off your meal on a sweet and satisfying note.

Enjoy these suggestions as you gather around the table, creating cherished memories and savoring every bite!

Baked Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and personalize it to your taste; let your culinary creativity shine!

Cheese Swap: Replace Parmesan with Cheddar or Gouda for a creamier texture and a unique flavor twist.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan alternative that’s still rich!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the cream sauce for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
Crunchy Toppings: Add panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top before baking for an extra crispy layer.
Smoky Flavor: Fold in crispy bacon or pancetta bits into the mixture to add savory depth and crunchiness to every bite.
Nutty Twist: Introduce chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a zesty, warming heat.
Sweet Addition: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or golden raisins for a delightful contrast of sweetness with the savory sauce.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the first six steps of the recipe, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the wrap, top with the remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake directly from the fridge for about 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. To maintain quality, ensure the Brussels sprouts are completely dry before mixing them with the cream sauce to prevent excess moisture. Enjoy a stress-free mealtime with these comforting baked sprouts ready in a snap!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Baked Brussels Sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture, ensuring the creaminess is preserved.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the creamy sauce a day in advance and simply mixing it with the sprouts before baking to save time on busy days.

Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that have dark spots or are yellowing, as these indicate overripeness. The smaller, younger sprouts tend to be sweeter.

How should I store my leftover Baked Brussels Sprouts?
Very! After cooling, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that can make them soggy.

Can I freeze Baked Brussels Sprouts?
Of course! To freeze, spread the baked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about 1 hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can bake them from frozen—just increase the baking time slightly.

What should I do if the cream sauce is too thick?
No problem! If you find your cream sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of milk or vegetable broth while stirring over low heat until you reach a desired consistency. This will keep it creamy and pourable for an even distribution over the sprouts.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! The recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with coconut milk for the cream and a non-dairy cheese option for the topping. Always check for potential allergens when cooking for groups, especially if serving guests with dietary restrictions.

How can I make this dish in advance?
Great question! You can prepare the creamy sauce and trim your Brussels sprouts a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine the sauce with the sprouts and proceed as directed. This is a fantastic way to save time while still serving a delicious homemade side dish!