Description
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bake
Ingredients:
1 1/4 lbs Brussels sprouts, halved
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 slices Canadian bacon, diced
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp thyme
Preparation:
Melt butter in a skillet. Sauté Brussels sprouts for 6 minutes.
Add Canadian bacon and cook for 3 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Mix well.
Top with cheddar and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Serve hot and creamy!
#ButterCheeseBrussels
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, prepare your Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and cutting them in half. In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the halved sprouts, cut-side down, and sauté undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until they develop a golden-brown sear. Next, add the diced Canadian bacon and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme, stirring to combine and coat everything evenly. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and evenly sprinkle the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the sprouts are tender.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory bake is a versatile side dish. For a comforting winter meal, serve it alongside a roasted chicken or a juicy pork tenderloin. It also makes a fantastic standalone vegetarian main course for a lighter dinner, perhaps with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a festive holiday table, present it directly from the skillet as a show-stopping side that pairs beautifully with turkey or ham.
How-to Summary
Sauté halved Brussels sprouts in butter until browned. Add diced Canadian bacon and cook briefly. Stir in cream, mustard, and thyme. Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of Canadian bacon? Diced pancetta, regular bacon, or even chopped ham are excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely or add sautéed mushrooms.
My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it? Let the cream mixture simmer for an extra 3-4 minutes on the stovetop before adding cheese. You can also sprinkle a teaspoon of flour into the butter after sautéing the sprouts to create a roux.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? It’s not recommended. Frozen sprouts release too much water, resulting in a soggy bake. Fresh sprouts are essential for the best texture and caramelization.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results, or microwave single portions until hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when sautéing the sprouts, as this will steam them instead of creating a flavorful sear. Do not skip the step of simmering the cream mixture briefly; this helps the sauce coat the sprouts properly. Ensure your skillet is oven-safe to avoid transferring the mixture to a new dish. Finally, resist the urge to cover the dish while baking, as this will trap steam and prevent the cheese from achieving a golden, crispy topping.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bake transforms a simple vegetable into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of caramelized sprouts, savory bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce is irresistible. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and add a guaranteed hit to your culinary repertoire. It’s the perfect way to make any dinner feel special.
