In this article, you’ll learn how to make a delicious and creamy garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts recipe. We’ll walk you through the steps, from cooking the sprouts to creating a flavorful garlic parmesan sauce. By the end, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that can be served as a side or enjoyed as a main course. So, let’s get started and elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this easy and irresistible recipe!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Brussels sprouts are often a misunderstood vegetable, with many people associating them with a bitter taste and unpleasant texture. However, with the right preparation and cooking method, Brussels sprouts can be transformed into a delectable dish that will leave you craving for more. In this recipe, we will show you how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, a mouthwatering side dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the creamy richness of garlic and Parmesan.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Optional: Bacon Bits, Red Pepper Flakes
Preparation
Before we begin cooking, let’s gather and prepare all the necessary ingredients.
Start by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water. Trim the ends and remove any loose leaves. Once the Brussels sprouts are cleaned, you can either halve or quarter them, depending on the size of the sprouts. This will help them cook more evenly.
Next, mince the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese. Measure out the remaining ingredients, including the heavy cream, salt, pepper, butter, and olive oil. If desired, you can also prepare any additional garnishes, such as crispy bacon bits or red pepper flakes.
Step 1: Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Now that everything is ready, let’s move on to preparing the Brussels sprouts.
Trim the ends of each Brussels sprout and remove any loose leaves. This will ensure that you are working with fresh and clean sprouts. Once trimmed, halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts to create bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
To add a creamy and flavorful element to our Brussels sprouts, we will make a garlic Parmesan sauce.
In a pan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Next, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir the mixture continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you can also add optional ingredients such as bacon bits or red pepper flakes for added flavor and heat.
Step 3: Cooking the Brussels Sprouts
Now it’s time to cook the Brussels sprouts. There are two popular cooking methods: sautéing and roasting. Let’s explore both options.
To sauté the Brussels sprouts, heat a separate pan with some olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved or quartered Brussels sprouts and cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sprouts should be tender and slightly browned.
If you prefer roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and golden brown.
Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked to your desired texture, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Combining the Brussels Sprouts and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the cooked Brussels sprouts, and gently toss to coat the sprouts evenly. The sauce should coat each sprout, giving them a deliciously creamy and flavorful coating.
Step 5: Serving and Garnishing
To serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, plate them on a serving dish.
You can garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added color and freshness. Parmesan shavings can also be sprinkled on top to enhance the cheesy flavor. For extra indulgence, you can even add crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat and texture.
Alternative Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, don’t be afraid to get creative and try different variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Adding other vegetables or proteins: Brussels sprouts pair well with other vegetables like roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add cooked bacon or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Experimenting with different cheeses: If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to experiment with different varieties. Gouda, fontina, or goat cheese can all add a unique twist to the dish.
- Modifying the creamy sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure to thoroughly wash the Brussels sprouts and remove any loose leaves before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the Brussels sprouts as they can become mushy. They should be tender but still have a slight bite to them.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic side dish that brings out the best in this often underrated vegetable. With the creaminess of the garlic Parmesan sauce and the earthy flavor of the sprouts, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a delicious and creamy Brussels sprouts dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.