Sprouts Gratin

Introduction

I completely understand the hesitation when it comes to Brussels sprouts – they’re often that veggie people either love or avoid at all costs. But this Sprouts Gratin? It’s honestly the dish that turned me into a Brussels sprouts believer, and I’m convinced it’ll do the same for you!

The first time I made it, I was hosting a small dinner party and wanted something that felt a little elevated but not overly complicated. I remember standing in the kitchen, thinking, “Is this really going to work?” But the moment that cheesy, bubbly gratin came out of the oven, golden and crispy on top, I knew we were in for something special. As soon as I put it on the table, there were curious glances, and I’ll admit, a little hesitation from my guests. But after the first bite? Total silence – the good kind! Before I knew it, people were asking for seconds, and even the self-proclaimed Brussels sprouts skeptics were converted.

What I love about this dish is that it’s so versatile. Whether it’s a holiday spread or a simple weeknight dinner, this gratin fits right in. And the best part? It’s not fussy. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or techniques – just a handful of everyday items and a little time in the oven. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel confident in the kitchen, no matter your experience level. So, if you’re ready to take your Brussels sprouts game to the next level, this gratin is the way to go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Sprouts Gratin deserves a spot at your table:

• Cheesy Comfort: Who can resist tender Brussels sprouts smothered in a creamy cheese sauce?
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who aren’t big fans of Brussels sprouts will love this creamy, cheesy take.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a gourmet dish without much effort.
• Golden and Crispy: The cheesy topping becomes perfectly crispy in the oven, adding a delightful texture.
• Great for Holidays or Everyday: Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Nutritious Twist: Brussels sprouts add a healthy veggie to your comfort food lineup.
• Customizable: Switch up the cheeses or add bacon for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prep this dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish but also hearty enough to stand on its own.
• Leftovers: It tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 4g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 9g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Sprouts Gratin:

For the Gratin:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

• Gruyère Cheese: Adds a nutty, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with Brussels sprouts.
• Brussels Sprouts: These little veggies transform into something spectacular when baked in cheese.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Provides a perfect crispy contrast to the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Sprouts Gratin:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the Sprouts: Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cream, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Gratin

1. Layer the Dish: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the sprouts.
2. Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle the mixture over the Brussels sprouts and sauce.

Bake the Gratin

1. Bake: Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
2. Cool: Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Here are some fun and tasty ways to serve your Sprouts Gratin:

1. As a Holiday Side: Perfect alongside roasted turkey, ham, or any festive dish.
2. Weeknight Dinner: Pair it with grilled chicken or steak for a comforting meal.
3. Vegetarian Main: Serve with a crisp salad or crusty bread for a hearty vegetarian dinner.
4. Dinner Party Favorite: Impress your guests by offering this gratin at your next gathering.
5. On a Platter: Present it in a beautiful baking dish for a cozy, family-style serving.
6. Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve with Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement the rich flavors.

Additional Tips

Maximize your Sprouts Gratin experience with these tips:

1. Use Fresh Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.
2. Toast the Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs in a pan before adding to the gratin.
3. Mix Up the Cheeses: Feel free to use cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor.
4. Bacon Option: Add crumbled bacon for an extra savory twist.
5. Avoid Soggy Sprouts: Roast the Brussels sprouts until they’re lightly browned to keep them from getting mushy in the gratin.
6. Use a Mandoline: If you want super thin sprouts, slice them with a mandoline for a more delicate texture.
7. Make Ahead: You can assemble the gratin in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
8. Store Properly: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
9. Reheat in Oven: To maintain the crispy top, reheat leftovers in the oven instead of the microwave.
10. Extra Creamy: For a richer gratin, add an extra 1/4 cup of cream to the sauce.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations to customize your Sprouts Gratin:

• Cheddar and Bacon Gratin: Swap out Gruyère for cheddar and add cooked bacon pieces for a smoky, cheesy dish.
• Cauliflower & Sprouts: Combine roasted Brussels sprouts with cauliflower florets for added texture.
• Truffle Oil: Drizzle truffle oil over the top of the gratin before serving for an elegant twist.
• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cream and vegan cheese, and replace the butter with olive oil.
• Add Caramelized Onions: Mix in caramelized onions for a sweet and savory combination.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Freezing and Storage

Ensure your Sprouts Gratin stays delicious with proper storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked gratin for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.

Special Equipment

You’ll need these kitchen tools to create your Sprouts Gratin:

• Baking Sheet: For roasting the Brussels sprouts.
• Saucepan: To make the creamy cheese sauce.
• Baking Dish: Use a medium-sized baking dish for assembling the gratin.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the topping ingredients.
• Spatula: To evenly spread the cheese sauce over the sprouts.

FAQ Section

• Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
  Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Assemble the gratin and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
• What can I substitute for Gruyère?
  Cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss are great alternatives.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
  What other candies can I use for the witch hat tip?
• Aside from candy corn, you could use chocolate kisses, mini marshmallows, or even small gumdrops to create different styles of witch hats.
• How can I make these cupcakes healthier?
• To make them a bit lighter, you could try using a reduced-fat cake mix, or replace the vegetable oil with applesauce. You could also opt for lower-sugar frosting options.
• What if I don’t have chocolate fudge frosting?
• You can use any store-bought frosting or make your own at home. Vanilla, buttercream, or even marshmallow frosting can work for a different twist on the recipe.
• Can I turn this into a full cake?
• Yes, you can use the same ingredients and decorate a large sheet or round cake with witch hat designs on top. It’s a fun way to turn this idea into a party-sized dessert!
• How do I prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the liners?
• Make sure to use quality cupcake liners and consider spraying them lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Also, letting the cupcakes cool completely before removing them from the liners helps.
• Can I decorate these cupcakes differently for other occasions?
• Absolutely! Change up the theme by using different cookies and candies for other holidays or events. For example, use a star-shaped cookie and different colors of frosting for a magical theme!
• What if I don’t have a piping bag?
• No worries! You can use a knife or a spoon to spread the frosting, or make your own piping bag by cutting a small hole in the corner of a plastic sandwich bag.

Print

Conclusion

I’m thrilled for you to try this Sprouts Gratin—it’s truly one of those dishes that brings people together around the table. The creamy cheese sauce, paired with that golden, crispy topping, is a comforting combination that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it as part of a big holiday spread or just for a cozy weeknight dinner, this gratin adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Feel free to snap a photo and share it on social media—be sure to tag me so I can see your masterpiece in all its cheesy glory! And don’t be shy about leaving a comment with your thoughts or any fun tweaks you made. Did you use a different kind of cheese or sneak in some extra spices? I’m always excited to hear your creative twists!

So go ahead, give this gratin a whirl—I promise it’s worth every bite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see how it turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!