Brussels Sprouts Gratin
Brussels Sprouts Gratin combines tender roasted Brussels sprouts with a rich cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a blend of Grana Padano and Parmesan cheeses. The gratin features a crispy golden panko and cheese topping that adds texture contrast to the creamy interior. This dish is ideal when you want a comforting vegetable side with a balance of creamy, savory, and subtly spiced flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts , trimmed and cut in half through the stem
- 1 small onion minced
- 4 garlic , minced
- 2 teaspoons thyme minced, fresh
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil , divided
- 3 tablespoon butter melted or extra virgin olive oil, unsalted
- 1-½ cups heavy cream , at room temperature
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup Grana Padano cheese shredded, divided, finely grated
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese , grated
- 2 teaspoons knorr chicken flavored bouillon , adjust to taste
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt , divided
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper ground
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated
Instructions
Prepare Brussels Sprouts:
- Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and heat to 450°F. Grease a 9x13-inch broiler-safe baking dish.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper in the baking dish. Bake until well browned and tender, about 30-35 minutes. Then, cool on a wire rack for 5 or up to 30 minutes.
Prepare Panko Topping:
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add panko, cooking until golden, around 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and mix in ¼ teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Make Cream Sauce:
- In the same saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in cream, water, and chicken-flavored bouillon. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Whisk in ¼ cup Grana Padano, Parmesan, nutmeg, cayenne, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Assemble & Bake:
- Pour cream mixture over Brussels sprouts in the dish, stirring to combine. Sprinkle evenly with panko mixture and remaining ¼ cup Grana Padano. Bake until bubbling and golden brown on top, 5-10 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat uncovered in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in intervals until hot.
- Prepare the gratin a day ahead for convenience and reheat until warm and crisp on top.
- Avoid freezing as it can damage the texture of the Brussels sprouts gratin.