Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
This creamy parmesan brussels sprouts recipe combines caramelized brussels sprouts with a luxurious cheese sauce inspired by Italian cooking traditions. The crispy exteriors of the sprouts contrast beautifully with a silky parmesan cream coating enriched with butter and garlic. Finished with fresh thyme and additional grated cheese, this elegant side dish elevates any Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 800g (1.75 lb) fresh brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 60ml (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 240ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 100g (1 cup) freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 30g (2 tablespoons) butter
- 5ml (1 teaspoon) fresh lemon juice
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 30g (¼ cup) panko breadcrumbs, optional for topping
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer without stirring.
-
Allow sprouts to cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until the cut sides achieve deep golden-brown caramelization.
-
Stir the sprouts and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until they are tender and the outer leaves are lightly charred, then remove to a plate.
-
Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the same skillet with any remaining oil, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
-
Pour in heavy cream and whisk gently. Add thyme sprigs and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cream begins to thicken slightly.
-
Remove from heat, discard thyme sprigs, and stir in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese in two additions until fully melted and incorporated. Stir in butter and lemon juice.
-
Season sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Return cooked brussels sprouts to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the creamy parmesan sauce.
-
Transfer to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs and place under the broiler for 2 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
Substitutions
- Use pecorino Romano instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano for a sharper, more assertive cheese flavor
- Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce (though it will be less rich)
- Replace butter with additional olive oil for a dairy-free version while maintaining richness
- Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or oregano for different herbal notes
Tips
- Do not move the brussels sprouts during the initial sear phase—this undisturbed cooking is essential for developing the deep caramelized crust that gives the dish its textural contrast.
- Grate the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese fresh from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- The sauce can be made up to 2 hours ahead; rewarm gently over low heat with a splash of cream before tossing with the brussels sprouts.
While brussels sprouts are not traditional to Italian cuisine, this preparation reflects modern Italian cooking techniques that emphasize quality ingredients and classical flavor combinations—the pairing of cream, butter, and aged cheese echoes the rich sauces found in Northern Italian dishes. This contemporary application honors the Italian principle of letting seasonal vegetables shine through careful technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe take to make?
Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe takes about 50 minutes total — 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking — and makes 4 servings.
What can I substitute in Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
You can adapt it easily: Use pecorino Romano instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano for a sharper, more assertive cheese flavor; Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce (though it will be less rich); Replace butter with additional olive oil for a dairy-free version while maintaining richness.
How should I store leftover Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days and reheat gently before serving.
How much protein is in Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
Each serving of Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe has about 14g of protein and 380 calories.
Loading comments...