If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both indulgent and comforting, let me introduce you to my *Brussels sprouts in Alfredo sauce*! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. The creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce wraps around each tender Brussels sprout, creating a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. I’ll never forget the first time I made this for my family; the way their eyes lit up with every bite was priceless! I’ve experimented with a lot of sides over the years, but this one has a special place in my heart. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for the holidays. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat! The creamy goodness truly elevates those little green beauties to a whole new level.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare *Brussels Sprouts in Alfredo Sauce*
Preheat and Boil
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab your Brussels sprouts and pop them into a pot of boiling water. You’ll want to let them boil for about 5 minutes—this helps them get tender and cuts down on baking time later. Once that timer goes off, drain them and set them aside. Easy peasy!
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Now onto the creamy goodness! In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbly, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for just a minute until it’s fragrant—don’t let it brown! Then, pour in those 2 cups of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all melted and smooth. Season it up with salt and pepper to your liking. Mmm, can you smell that? It’s heavenly!
Combine and Bake
Now, let’s bring it all together! In a large mixing bowl, combine your tender Brussels sprouts with that luscious Alfredo sauce, making sure every sprout is coated. Transfer everything into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to check that they’re bubbling and slightly golden on top. The aroma will have your mouth watering, I promise!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce that makes every bite feel indulgent.
- Brussels sprouts transform into a flavorful side dish that even non-vegetable lovers will adore.
- Only a handful of ingredients mean less fuss and more flavor.
- Great for meal prep—make it ahead of time and reheat for an effortless dinner.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes, from chicken to pasta.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser for holidays or gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *Brussels sprouts in Alfredo sauce* turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Don’t skip the boiling: Boiling the Brussels sprouts for just 5 minutes is key. It softens them up and ensures they won’t be tough after baking. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- Cheese choice: While I love Parmesan for its nutty flavor, feel free to mix in some Pecorino Romano for an extra kick. It’s all about what you enjoy!
- Make it lighter: If you’re looking to cut calories, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a lighter cream. It’ll still be delicious, but with a little less richness.
- Time saver: You can prep the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with the Brussels sprouts!
- Add protein: For a heartier dish, mix in some cooked chicken or crispy pancetta. It’ll take your side dish to a whole new level!
- Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. It’s a delightful surprise!
With these tips, you’re all set to impress everyone at the dinner table. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your *Brussels sprouts in Alfredo sauce* ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! This dish is rich and creamy, so you’ll want to think about pairing it with lighter or hearty options that will complement those flavors perfectly. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Grilled Chicken: A simple lemon-herb grilled chicken is a fantastic choice! The bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Salmon: A perfectly roasted salmon fillet brings a lovely flaky texture and pairs wonderfully with the creamy Brussels sprouts. Plus, the pink color is so inviting!
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some crunchy garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for scooping up that luscious Alfredo sauce!
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and adds a nutritious touch to your meal.
- Pasta: If you’re in the mood for something really comforting, serve it with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic. It’s a carb-lover’s dream!
- Stuffed Peppers: For a fun twist, consider serving your Brussels sprouts alongside some stuffed peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, beans, and spices.
With these suggestions, you can create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy the delightful combo of flavors and textures! Happy feasting!
Nutritional Information Section
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my *Brussels sprouts in Alfredo sauce*. Keep in mind, these values can vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re putting on your plate:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
These estimates are for a 1-cup serving, which is perfect as a side dish. With all that creamy goodness, you’re definitely getting a satisfying and hearty option! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve added some nutritious Brussels sprouts to your meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before following the recipe. You might want to boil them for a minute or two longer to ensure they’re tender.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and cream, but keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit lighter in texture. It’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving for that fresh, bubbly goodness. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are slightly golden and bubbly. A fork should easily pierce through the sprouts, indicating they’re tender and delicious!
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some roasted cauliflower or broccoli for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add more veggies!
Brussels Sprouts in Alfredo Sauce: 7 Indulgent Tips to Enjoy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brussels sprouts in creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a pot, boil Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Brussels sprouts with Alfredo sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Try adding cooked chicken for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: brussels sprouts, alfredo sauce, creamy side dish