Introduction
Brussels Sprouts Gratin with Bacon
Brussels sprouts have long been a divisive vegetable, but when transformed into a gratin, they become a dish that can win over even the most skeptical eaters. This creamy and cheesy baked version, enhanced with crispy bacon, offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Brussels sprouts
1½ pounds, trimmed and halved lengthwise
Salted butter
3 tablespoons
All-purpose flour
3 tablespoons
Skim milk
2 cups
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup
Cooked bacon
8 slices, crumbled
Freshly shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup
Prep Time
Preparation time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking time
15 minutes
Total time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
This Brussels Sprouts Gratin with Bacon recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it also tantalizes the taste buds with every bite. The creamy sauce, rich with Parmesan and topped with gooey white cheddar and crispy bacon, elevates humble Brussels sprouts to gourmet status. Enjoy this dish warm, straight from the oven, and watch as it disappears from the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 6-7 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sprouts to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Butter and Flour Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Add the Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture forms a smooth sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Season and Add Cheese
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 7: Combine with Brussels Sprouts
Sprinkle most of the crumbled bacon over the Brussels sprouts in the baking dish, reserving some for garnish.
Step 8: Pour the Cheese Sauce
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the Brussels sprouts, ensuring it fills all the spaces.
Step 9: Add White Cheddar and Bacon
Top with the shredded white cheddar cheese and the reserved bacon.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a hearty side for family gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Adjusting for a Healthier Version
For a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of cheese used or substitute with low-fat cheese options.
Cook techniques
Blanching
Blanching involves briefly boiling Brussels sprouts in salted water to enhance their color and tenderness, making them ideal for casseroles. This technique also helps preserve their nutrients.
Making a Roux
Creating a roux is done by cooking equal parts of butter and flour together until they form a smooth paste. This foundation thickens sauces, giving your cheese sauce a creamy texture.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking method where a sauce is heated just below boiling point. This technique allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken without burning.
Melting Cheese
Melting cheese involves slowly heating it to achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. Gradually adding cheese to a warm sauce ensures it melts evenly without clumping.
Layering Ingredients
Layering is the process of arranging ingredients in a specific order to create depth and flavor in a dish. In this recipe, Brussels sprouts are combined with bacon and cheese for added richness.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat in an oven. This final step helps to meld the flavors together and create a bubbly, golden topping on the cheese.
FAQ
Can I use fresh Brussels sprouts instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for this recipe as they provide better texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for skim milk?
You can use whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, but this may slightly alter the richness of the cheese sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative to cater to vegetarian diets.
What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Indulging in Brussels Sprouts Gratin with Bacon offers a delightful balance of rich flavors and textures. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon transforms Brussels sprouts into a comforting dish that even skeptics will love. This gratin is perfect as a side dish for gatherings or family dinners, elevating the humble Brussels sprout to a star on your plate.
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