If you think Brussels sprouts can’t be irresistibly delicious, wait until you try this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It transforms these often misunderstood veggies into a velvety, cheesy, and tender dish that melts in your mouth. Perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, then bathed in a luscious creamy sauce with garlic and a golden cheesy crust, this recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food that’s also packed with vibrant green goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe is easy to pull together, yet every component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color.
- Brussels sprouts, 1 ½ pounds: Trimmed and halved for even cooking and a tender bite.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Adds a smooth richness and helps achieve that perfect roast.
- Salt, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts and balances the creaminess.
- Black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Provides a subtle heat that complements the cheese.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Infuses a fragrant backbone that warms every bite.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that coats the veggies beautifully.
- Onion powder, ½ teaspoon: Brings a delicate depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who love a bit of spice.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup: Sharp, nutty notes that form a savory crust on top.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup: Melts perfectly to create a gooey, golden topping.
How to Make Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will roast the Brussels sprouts beautifully, giving them tender insides and slightly crisped edges that lock in flavor.
Step 2: Toss Brussels Sprouts with Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until every piece is evenly coated. This ensures each sprout is infused with flavor and gets that lovely caramelization in the oven.
Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside a 9×13-inch baking dish. This allows even roasting and prevents overcrowding for crispier results.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the Brussels sprouts, making sure every nook gets coated for that signature creaminess.
Step 5: Add Cheese Toppings
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the creamy sprouts, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. These cheeses melt into a bubbling, golden blanket that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake the dish uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the Brussels sprouts are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is perfectly golden and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to settle the creamy sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or even a zest of lemon brighten up the rich flavors. A few crispy bacon bits add delightful crunch and a smoky contrast if you like a non-vegetarian twist.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe makes an ideal side for classic roasted meats like chicken or pork. It also pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a simple quinoa salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in a rustic cast-iron skillet right out of the oven for a cozy, family-style vibe. Or, portion it into individual ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation. It also makes a fabulous topping for baked potatoes to turn a humble spud into a comforting feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep deliciously for up to 3 days, making great next-day lunches or easy dinner reheats.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of Brussels sprouts might soften slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, store in a freezer-safe dish with a tight seal, and consume within 1 month for best taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese topping regains some of its golden crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Using half-and-half makes the dish a bit lighter while still maintaining a creamy texture. Just know that heavy cream provides a richer, thicker sauce.
Are frozen Brussels sprouts okay to use in this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best to achieve that tender-crisp texture, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid sogginess.
What can I add to make this recipe vegan?
Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream alternative and use vegan cheeses. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor to keep it tasty and creamy.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle kick that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the creaminess. You can easily omit them if you prefer no heat.
Can I add other vegetables with the Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms, cauliflower florets, or thinly sliced carrots can roast alongside the sprouts and soak up that creamy sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe a try because it turns a simple vegetable into a superstar side dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this comforting, cheesy delight will quickly become a favorite you return to again and again.
Print
Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy baked Brussels sprouts recipe features tender Brussels sprouts smothered in a rich sauce of heavy cream, garlic, and cheeses, then baked until golden and bubbling. A perfect vegetarian side dish that’s easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese Topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the Brussels sprouts.
- Toss Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the Brussels sprouts in the dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the Brussels sprouts, followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch if desired.
