Name: Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts (1.5 lbs): Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts are the star of the show. Look for sprouts that are tightly packed and bright green. They provide a slightly bitter, earthy base that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.; Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is the foundation of the creamy sauce. Heavy cream provides richness and a luxurious texture that coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully.; Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for the best flavor and melting. It adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich dimension to the dish, creating a delicious crust when baked.; Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic infuses the cream sauce with aromatic depth. Freshly minced garlic releases its pungent oils, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.; Butter (2 tablespoons): Butter adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic and create a flavorful base for the cream sauce. It also contributes to a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.; Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil is used for roasting the Brussels sprouts. It helps them to caramelize and develop a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.; Salt (to taste): Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. It balances the sweetness of the cream and bitterness of the sprouts.; Black Pepper (to taste): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity to the dish. It complements the richness of the cream and cheese.; Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (pinch): For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the cream sauce. This adds a subtle kick that balances the richness and adds another layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts (1.5 lbs): Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts are the star of the show. Look for sprouts that are tightly packed and bright green. They provide a slightly bitter, earthy base that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is the foundation of the creamy sauce. Heavy cream provides richness and a luxurious texture that coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for the best flavor and melting. It adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich dimension to the dish, creating a delicious crust when baked.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic infuses the cream sauce with aromatic depth. Freshly minced garlic releases its pungent oils, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Butter adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic and create a flavorful base for the cream sauce. It also contributes to a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil is used for roasting the Brussels sprouts. It helps them to caramelize and develop a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Salt (to taste): Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. It balances the sweetness of the cream and bitterness of the sprouts.
Black Pepper (to taste): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity to the dish. It complements the richness of the cream and cheese.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (pinch): For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the cream sauce. This adds a subtle kick that balances the richness and adds another layer of flavor.

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Instructions

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Sprouts: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Wash them thoroughly under cold water and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Drying is crucial for roasting, as it helps them to brown instead of steam. Trim the tough ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or wilted outer leaves. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. For larger sprouts, you might even consider quartering them to ensure even cooking.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that the sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasoning. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the sprouts to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and lightly browned, with slightly crispy edges. Halfway through roasting, toss the sprouts to ensure even browning on all sides.
Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the cream simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken. This simmering process helps to concentrate the flavors and create a richer sauce.
Add Parmesan and Season the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in ¾ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. If you desire a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember that the Parmesan cheese is already salty, so start with a smaller amount of salt and add more if necessary.
Combine Sprouts and Sauce and Bake: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the creamy Parmesan sauce is ready, gently transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss to coat the sprouts evenly in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Pour the coated Brussels sprouts into an oven-safe dish or leave them in the saucepan if it is oven-safe. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Broil for a Golden Crust (Optional but Recommended): For a beautifully golden and slightly crispy top, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and lightly browned and bubbly. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Broiling adds a wonderful textural contrast and enhances the cheesy flavor.
Serve Hot and Enjoy: Remove the Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts from the oven or broiler and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve immediately while they are hot and creamy. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal. These Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are delicious as a side dish for almost any meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: one normal portion
Calories: 220
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 8g