Creamed Brussels Sprouts: A Holiday Must-Try

Creamed Brussels Sprouts make a delicious side dish during the holiday season. The creamy base blends seamlessly with the tender sprouts. This dish complements hearty mains and festive sides perfectly. It’s my beloved alternative to the Brussels sprout casserole.

Creamed Brussels sprouts recipe

Creamed Brussels sprouts are a rich and flavorful side dish. They elevate the often polarizing vegetable into a creamy, decadent treat. The dish includes Brussels sprouts cooked until tender. They are combined with a creamy sauce.

Creamed Brussels sprouts deliver a rich balance of flavors. The creamy sauce creates a rich and velvety texture. It is often enriched with heavy cream, sour cream, or half-and-half. Savory elements like bacon or shallots add depth. Smoky and sweet notes complement the natural earthiness of the sprouts.

The sweetness of the sprouts contrasts with creamy, savory elements. This contrast makes this dish both comforting and satisfying. Here’s how to make the creamed Brussels sprouts:

Creamed Brussels Sprouts

This comforting dish balances the natural nuttiness of Brussels sprouts with indulgent creaminess, making it perfect for holiday tables or special dinners.

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Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the Brussels sprouts for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, bringing it to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
• Add the cooked Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring them into the creamy sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sprouts to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately as a side dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal

Keyword Christmas recipe, Creamed Brussels Sprouts, Thanksgiving recipe

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How to pair

Food pairings

Creamed Brussels sprouts complement many main courses. Here are some excellent pairing options:

1. Meat Dishes
   • Roast turkey pairs well with creamed Brussels sprouts, especially during Christmas.
   • The creaminess complements salmon filets without overpowering their flavor.
   • They enhance the roast leg of pork, often stuffed with bacon and cranberries.
   • The savory flavors of roasted or pan-seared chicken are balanced by the creamy texture of Brussels sprouts.
   • Serving this side with grilled beef like skirt steak creates an elegant meal.
2. Vegetarian Options
   • Creamy pasta dishes are a great choice.
   • Cheesy gratins or vegetable casseroles go nicely with the dish.
3. Other Side Dishes
   • Roasted potatoes are a beautiful pairing.
   • Mashed potatoes create a hearty meal when served alongside them.
   • A fresh salad contrasts nicely with the richness of the Brussels sprouts for a balanced dish.

Drinks

The creamy Brussels sprouts pair well with various beverages:

1. Wine Pairings
   • Sauvignon Blanc complements creamy dishes with its crisp acidity.
   • White Burgundy balances the flavors of creamy, cheesy Brussels sprout recipes.
   • Chardonnay enhances the creaminess of the dish.
2. Beer Pairings
   • Pale ale cuts through the richness of cream sauce.
   • Wheat beer contrasts the heaviness of the dish.
3. Non-alcoholic drinks
   • Non-alcoholic gin alternatives pair lightly with creamy sprouts.
   • Sparkling water with citrus cleanses the palate between bites.
   • Herbal teas provide a soothing meal accompaniment.
   • Dry apple cider adds a fruity note to complement Brussels sprouts’ earthiness.

Variations

Brussels sprouts and cream can be customized in various variants to suit different tastes and occasions.

1. Cheesy Variations
   • Add Parmesan and Mozzarella to the cream sauce for a rich, gooey texture.
   • Use Gruyère or Gouda for a more robust flavor.
2. Additions for Flavor
   • Brussels sprouts bacon and cream add crispy bacon for a smoky flavor.
   • Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy element to the dish.
   • Toasted hazelnuts or walnuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
3. Vegetarian Options
   • Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
   • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley enhance the flavor without meat.
4. Fruit Additions
   • A splash of lemon juice or zest brightens the dish.
   • Grated apple or pear introduces a sweet contrast to savory elements.
5. Seasonal Variations
   • For winter meals, nutmeg and crushed chestnuts add a festive touch.
   • Crushed red pepper flakes add a spicy kick to the creamy sauce.

Discover More:

Brussels Sprout Casserole: Holiday-Perfect Dish Classic Stuffing: A Holiday Favorite Vegetarian Stuffing: A Veggie Twist on Thanksgiving Green Bean Casserole with Candied Bacon Irresistible Roasted Carrots with Honey Herb Butter Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes: A Luxurious Twist!