Are you ready to elevate your veggie game? These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts will transform your meals. With rich flavors and a smooth texture, this dish brings comfort food to a new level. Perfectly roasted sprouts coated in a creamy garlic sauce will impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive into easy steps to create this savory delight that will have your family coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
To create creamy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts, you need quality ingredients. Start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Choose ones that are firm and bright green. The olive oil adds flavor and helps with roasting. Fresh garlic packs a punch and gives the dish its signature taste. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth.
I always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts better and tastes great. Salt and pepper are key to enhancing flavors. Red pepper flakes can add a kick if you like some heat. Finally, parsley adds color and freshness.
With this ingredient list, you set the stage for a delicious dish. Every part plays a role in making the sprouts creamy and flavorful. Remember to have fun while cooking; it’s all about enjoying the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps roast the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, add 1 lb of halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Toss well to coat each sprout evenly.
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to toss them halfway through cooking for even browning. Look for a golden-brown color and a tender texture.
Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the sprouts roast, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Do not let the garlic burn; it should become fragrant. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Combining Sprouts and Sauce
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Gently toss the sprouts to ensure they are well coated with the sauce.
Final Cooking to Meld Flavors
Let the mixture cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step helps meld the flavors beautifully, making each bite a delight.
Serving and Garnishing
Transfer the creamy Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. For a vibrant touch, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley. This adds freshness and makes the dish look elegant. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To get the best roast on your Brussels sprouts, follow some key steps. First, make sure to trim and halve them evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Use enough olive oil for even coating. A good rule is about three tablespoons for one pound of sprouts. Spread them out on the baking sheet without crowding. This ensures hot air circulates around each sprout, giving you that nice golden brown color. Toss them halfway through cooking. This trick promotes even browning and helps develop flavor.
Even seasoning is crucial. Always add salt and pepper to the oil before coating the sprouts. This ensures every sprout gets the same flavor. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes into the mix for some zing.
Creamy Sauce Variations
You can easily switch up the creamy sauce! If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. For a vegan version, use coconut cream or cashew cream. Both will give you a rich texture without dairy.
Feel free to mix in other cheeses. Goat cheese or feta can add a unique flavor twist. You can also sprinkle in some smoked paprika or Italian herbs for extra taste. These small changes can make the dish your own.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts pair well with many main dishes. They go great alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak. You can also serve them with pasta for a delightful vegetarian meal.
For portion control, consider serving them in small bowls. This way, each guest can take what they want. It makes the meal feel special. Plus, it helps prevent overindulging. Remember, these sprouts are rich and creamy, so a little goes a long way!
Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
To add some heat, use red pepper flakes. Just a half teaspoon gives a nice kick. If you want more spice, feel free to add a bit more. You can also use fresh chopped jalapeños for a different flavor. Balance the spice with the creamy sauce. The cream and cheese will help tone down the heat.
Vegan Creamy Sauce Alternative
If you want to make this dish vegan, you can swap the heavy cream. Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead. Both options create a rich texture. For a cheesy flavor, try nutritional yeast. Blend soaked cashews with garlic for a creamy sauce. This keeps the dish delicious and dairy-free.
Adding Protein
To make this dish heartier, add protein. Cooked chicken or crispy bacon works well. For chicken, simply dice and sauté it with the garlic. For bacon, cook it first, then add the garlic to the fat. Toss the sprouts with your chosen protein for a filling meal. This adds flavor and texture to your creamy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. Placing a paper towel inside can absorb extra moisture. This helps keep the sprouts crisp. Enjoy them within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, use a skillet on low heat. This method helps to keep the creaminess intact. Stir gently to ensure even warming. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of cream or water. This will revive the dish’s smooth texture.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze these Brussels sprouts! To freeze, let them cool completely first. Place them in freezer-safe bags, removing excess air. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat them on the stove to bring back their creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Brussels sprouts in advance. First, trim and halve the sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready, roast them as usual. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead. Just reheat it gently before combining with the sprouts.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Both options offer a nice salty flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative too. It adds a cheesy taste without the cheese.
How do I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?
To reduce bitterness, try these tips. Roast the Brussels sprouts until they are golden brown. The caramelization adds sweetness. Season them with a little sugar or honey while cooking. Adding cream and cheese also helps mask any bitterness.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they need adjustments. Thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. Roast them at a lower temperature, around 375°F (190°C), for about 30 minutes. This helps them get crispy without becoming mushy.
In this blog post, I covered how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts. You learned about the key ingredients, like fresh Brussels sprouts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. I provided step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips for perfecting the dish.
In conclusion, this recipe shines with its creamy sauce and bright flavors. Try variations to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking and impress your guests with this tasty side!
