There’s a certain comfort in the kitchen, especially as the first whispers of autumn chill the air. I found myself reaching for those lovely Brussels sprouts, a vegetable often overlooked but bursting with potential. With the rich aroma of crispy pancetta mingling with the creaminess of Gruyere cheese, I knew I was onto something special. This Brussels Sprouts Gratin transforms humble ingredients into a dazzling side that can easily steal the show.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or elevate your weeknight meals, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Imagine perfectly tender Brussels sprouts enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, topped with a golden crust that’s calling your name.
Join me on this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a hearty recipe that not only supports your desire for homemade goodness but also leaves fast food in the dust! Let’s bring the joy of cooking back to your table!
Why is this Brussels Sprouts Gratin irresistible?
Indulgent Flavor: The crispy pancetta and creamy Gruyere create a taste sensation that’s both rich and savory.
Perfectly Balanced: Tender Brussels sprouts bathed in a velvety sauce make for the perfect side dish or main course.
Quick & Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this comforting dish any night of the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family or guests with a dish that feels gourmet but is shockingly simple to prepare.
Versatile Delight: Great as a side or a stand-alone meal, this gratin pairs well with many proteins, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Elevate your home cooking and discover the joy of homemade meals with this dazzling recipe!
Delicious Brussels Sprouts Gratin Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts – fresh, vibrant sprouts are key to a satisfying texture.
• Salt – to taste; enhances the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
For the Pancetta Sauce
• 2 ounces pancetta – adds a smoky, savory crunch that elevates the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter – for richness and to sauté the shallots to perfection.
• 3 shallots – their sweetness complements the savory pancetta beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – thickens the sauce for a creamy consistency.
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk – for a decadent, velvety cheese sauce base.
• 1 scant pinch freshly ground nutmeg – just a touch brings warmth and depth.
• Thyme leaves from 2 sprigs or 1/2 teaspoon dry thyme – adds an earthy, aromatic note.
For the Cheese Topping
• 4 ounces grated Gruyere cheese – brings a nutty flavor and melty goodness, used in layers for the ultimate Brussels Sprouts Gratin experience.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts Gratin
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give the gratin that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Blanch the Brussels sprouts in a large pot of salted boiling water for 5 minutes. This softens them slightly and locks in their vibrant green color, then drain and set aside.
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Cook the pancetta in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove it and set aside, leaving the lovely fat in the skillet for flavor!
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Add the butter to the skillet with the pancetta fat, then toss in the sliced shallots. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to bloom and absorb those delicious flavors. Then, slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy.
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Thicken the sauce by continuously whisking until it bubbles and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the nutmeg, thyme, half of the Gruyere cheese, and the crispy pancetta.
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Combine the blanched Brussels sprouts with the creamy sauce and mix well, ensuring every sprout is coated.
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Transfer this glorious mixture into a baking dish and generously top it with the remaining Gruyere cheese.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brussels Sprouts Gratin Variations
Customize this dish to delight your taste buds even further with a few fun twists!
- Cheesy Delight: Add a mix of cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a more robust flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pancetta and substitute with sautéed mushrooms for an equally delicious, earthy bite. A touch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor!
- Pesto Twist: Stir in a few spoonfuls of basil pesto into the cheese sauce for a fresh, herbal kick that brightens up every bite.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed breadcrumbs or panko mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for added texture and an irresistible crunch.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted hazelnuts or walnuts into the Brussels sprouts for a surprising nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix. This will awaken your palate and add a fun contrast!
- Creamy Alternative: Swap the whole milk for a richer cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a tailored experience that suits your dietary needs.
- Herb Medley: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor twist, enhancing the dish’s aromatic qualities.
Let your creativity run wild and make this dish your own!
How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts Gratin
Fridge: Store any leftover Brussels Sprouts Gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, portion the gratin into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the top is crispy again, about 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: Consider enjoying reheated portions straight out of the oven with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts Gratin
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh Brussels sprouts and high-quality Gruyere cheese for the best flavors. Avoid frozen sprouts as they can become mushy.
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Crispy Pancetta: Make sure to render the pancetta until it’s nice and crispy. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the savory notes in your gratin.
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Whisking Technique: When adding milk to the flour mixture, whisk slowly to prevent lumps. This ensures a smooth and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the Brussels sprouts.
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Nutmeg Magic: Just a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to your sauce. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much can overpower the dish.
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Baking Bliss: For a perfectly golden crust, broil the gratin for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
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Make Ahead: This Brussels Sprouts Gratin can be prepared ahead of time; just assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve!
Make Ahead Options
These Brussels Sprouts Gratin are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance! To make ahead, simply follow the recipe through step 6, then cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the dish from the fridge, uncover, and let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature before baking. Remember to sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese on top just before putting it in the oven. You’ll have a comforting, delicious dish ready to serve with ease, just as delightful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Brussels Sprouts Gratin?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful companions that enhance the flavors in this rich and creamy dish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery, fluffy texture complements the creamy sauce of the gratin while providing a comforting, hearty base.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken offers a wonderful contrast to the rich gratin, making for a satisfying and balanced meal.
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Apple Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the creaminess, creating a beautiful interplay of flavors.
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Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious cheese sauce while adding a delightful dose of carbs to the feast.
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Mixed Green Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that brightens your plate and balances the richness of the gratin.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs exquisitely, enhancing the meal with its acidity and complementing the savory notes of the dish.
Brussels Sprouts Gratin Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant green Brussels sprouts that are firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or yellowing leaves, as these indicate overripeness. The smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them a perfect choice for this gratin.
How do I store leftover Brussels Sprouts Gratin?
Very! After serving, let the gratin cool down and transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy again, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Can I freeze Brussels Sprouts Gratin?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the cooled gratin into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven until heated through and the top is golden again.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick, whisk in a bit more milk over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, cook it a little longer while whisking to help it thicken. You want a creamy sauce that will perfectly coat the Brussels sprouts.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Brussels Sprouts Gratin gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold milk to create a slurry before whisking it into the sauce. You can still enjoy that luxurious texture without gluten!
Is this recipe suitable for pets?
No, it’s best! While Brussels sprouts themselves are safe in moderation for dogs, the pancetta, butter, and cheese are not recommended for pets. It’s better to serve them plain Brussels sprouts without seasoning instead. Keep this delicious gratin as a special treat just for you!
Brussels Sprouts Gratin with Crispy Pancetta Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Blanch the Brussels sprouts in a large pot of salted boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the pancetta in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add the butter to the skillet with the pancetta fat and sauté the sliced shallots for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy.
- Thicken the sauce by whisking until it bubbles and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Add nutmeg, thyme, half of the Gruyere, and crispy pancetta.
- Combine the blanched Brussels sprouts with the creamy sauce and mix until coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with the remaining Gruyere cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.