Description
Creamy Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
1 lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add Brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens.
Optional: Add butter for extra creaminess.
Serve hot as a side dish or main course. Garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
#CreamyBrusselsSprouts #EasySides #HealthyAndDelicious #VegetableLovers #ComfortFood #QuickMeals #FoodieFavorites #CheesyGoodness
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect creamy Brussels sprouts every time. First, ensure your sprouts are trimmed, with any tough outer leaves removed, and halved uniformly for even cooking. Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the sprouts cut-side down in a single layer; do not overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a deep, golden-brown sear. Flip each sprout and cook for 3 more minutes. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about 60 seconds to prevent burning. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream—it will bubble initially. Immediately reduce the heat to low for a gentle simmer. Let the cream reduce and thicken slightly for 5 minutes before adding the Parmesan, nutmeg, and seasonings. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted into a velvety sauce. Finish by swirling in the optional butter off the heat for a glossy, rich finish.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. For a classic dinner, serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon. To create a satisfying vegetarian meal, spoon it over a bed of creamy polenta or folded into cooked pasta like farfalle. For a festive touch, top with crispy fried shallots, toasted pine nuts, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
How-to Summary
Trim and halve Brussels sprouts. Sear cut-side down in olive oil until golden. Flip, add garlic, and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer to reduce. Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until a creamy sauce forms. Optionally, finish with butter for extra richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, prepare the sauce and cook the sprouts separately. Combine and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk work well, though the sauce will be less thick. Avoid milk, as it may curdle.
How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from being bitter? The key is the caramelization from searing cut-side down. This process brings out natural sweetness, countering bitterness.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese? It’s not recommended. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly.
Is the nutmeg necessary? While optional, nutmeg is a classic complement to creamy dishes and enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, subtle depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the sprouts instead of searing them. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Burning the Garlic: Add it after the sprouts are browned and stir constantly for just one minute.
- Using High Heat for the Cream: After adding cream, reduce to a low simmer to prevent separation or scalding.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Add Parmesan off the direct heat or on very low heat to avoid a clumpy, oily sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy Brussels sprouts recipe transforms a simple vegetable into an elegant, decadent side dish or main. With its perfect balance of caramelized edges, rich sauce, and savory cheese, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, proving that healthy ingredients can indeed be the ultimate comfort food.