Growing up, I always pushed Brussels sprouts around my plate. But then I found these creamy parmesan brussels sprouts. They changed everything, turning simple veggies into a masterpiece.
Imagine making those small green balls into a rich, indulgent side dish. Even the pickiest eaters will love it. This recipe is more than just veggies; it’s a feast of flavors and health in every bite.
To make this dish, you’ll need 2 pounds of fresh Brussels sprouts. Add 1½ cups of heavy cream and ½ cup of Parmesan. It takes your meal from ordinary to amazing.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Transforms Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleasing side dish
- Packed with rich, creamy Parmesan flavor
- Quick and easy preparation (25 minutes total)
- Nutritionally dense with only 6 grams of carbohydrates
- Perfect for family dinners and special occasions
Introduction to Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Discover the magic of a versatile vegetable casserole that will change your holiday side dishes. Creamy Parmesan Brussels sprouts are a treat that mixes health with amazing taste in every bite.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are full of good stuff. They’re tiny green veggies that bring big health benefits:
- High in vitamin C for immune support
- Rich in fiber for digestive health
- Contains antioxidants that fight inflammation
- Low in calories
What Makes This Recipe Special
Our parmesan side dishes recipe is special because of how it prepares Brussels sprouts. The creamy texture and deep flavor make this dish truly stand out.
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
Fresh Brussels Sprouts | Better texture and flavor compared to frozen |
Creamy Parmesan Coating | Reduces natural bitterness |
Roasting Temperature | 425°F for perfect caramelization |
Perfect Occasions for Serving
This dish is great for many occasions. It’s perfect for a festive holiday meal or a simple dinner. It goes well with many main dishes:
- Thanksgiving dinner
- Christmas gatherings
- Roast chicken dinners
- Alongside beef or fish entrees
Pro tip: Brussels sprouts are at their best in late autumn. They taste sweeter after the first frost.
Essential Ingredients and Substitutions
Making tasty creamy vegetable dishes begins with picking the right ingredients. For our Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, we have a list of key items. They add flavor and nutrition to your meals.

Key Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
The main ingredient in our dish is the Brussels sprouts. These small cabbages are full of vitamins and have only 43 calories per 100 grams.
Smart Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace Parmesan with ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk
- Use Romano or Pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan
- Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder for convenience
These roasted brussels sprouts are low in carbs, with only 5.2g per serving. Tip: Pick sprouts that are about 1 inch long for the best taste and texture.
Pro Chef Recommendation: Always choose fresh Brussels sprouts and trim the ends for optimal roasting results!
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein: 3.4g per 100g
- Fiber: 18% daily intake per 100g
- Calories: 43 per 100g
These creamy vegetable dishes are not just delicious. They’re also full of nutrients that are good for your health.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making tasty keto-friendly sides is easy. These recipes for healthy veggie dishes make cooking Brussels sprouts simple. Just follow these easy steps to turn regular Brussels sprouts into a delicious side dish.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
First, pick fresh Brussels sprouts. Cut off the ends and halve them for even cooking. Dry them with a paper towel to get rid of extra moisture. This step is key for that perfect crispy texture in your healthy veggie recipes.
- Choose small, compact Brussels sprouts
- Trim the stem ends
- Cut sprouts in half vertically
- Pat completely dry
Creating the Creamy Sauce
The secret to this keto-friendly side is its creamy sauce. In a skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Then, pour in heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to get a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Melt butter in a skillet
- Add minced garlic
- Pour in heavy cream
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese
- Whisk until smooth
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get restaurant-quality Brussels sprouts, aim for a golden-brown outside. Cook the sprouts in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes. This will give them a crispy caramelized surface. Then, pour the creamy sauce over the sprouts and bake at 400°F for 10-13 minutes.
“The key to perfect Brussels sprouts is patience and high heat”
Pro tip: For extra crispiness, place the sprouts cut-side down in the skillet. This method ensures a delightful crunch in every bite of these keto-friendly sides.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Getting creamy parmesan brussels sprouts just right needs focus and some tricks up your sleeve. Whether you’re in the mood for brussels sprout cravings or want a fancy side dish, these tips will make your cooking shine.
Ingredient Selection and Preparation
- Choose fresh, bright green Brussels sprouts with tight, compact leaves
- Rinse sprouts thoroughly and pat dry before cooking
- Trim the stem ends and remove any yellow or discolored leaves
Cooking Techniques
Roasting makes Brussels sprouts truly special. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) for optimal caramelization
- Space sprouts evenly on baking sheet to ensure crispy edges
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning
Pro Tips for Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Tip | Recommendation |
---|---|
Cheese Quality | Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor |
Sauce Consistency | Whisk sauce continuously to prevent separation |
Storage | Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days in airtight container |
For the best creamy parmesan brussels sprouts, try adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes. Remember, cooking is an art – don’t be afraid to customize!
Pro Chef Secret: The key to irresistible Brussels sprouts is crispy edges and a creamy, flavorful finish.
Reheating Tips
To revive leftover brussels sprouts, reheat in the oven at 375°F or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. This keeps their crispy texture and tasty flavor.
Conclusion
These creamy parmesan side dishes are more than a simple recipe. They’re a game-changer for brussels sprout recipes. With just 10 minutes of cooking and six servings per batch, they can make any meal special.
This recipe is packed with nutrition and flavor. Each serving gives you a lot of vitamin C, fiber, and a bit of protein. It’s a great way to make even the pickiest eaters love veggies.
Don’t stop here in your kitchen adventure. Try different cheeses, roasting methods, or spices to make it your own. These creamy parmesan side dishes are perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast.
Ready to level up your veggie game? Get those brussels sprouts and follow the steps. You’ll make a dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
FAQ
Are frozen Brussels sprouts okay to use in this recipe?
Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts work too. Just thaw and dry them well before roasting. Fresh sprouts give the best taste and texture. But frozen ones can be a good backup if you dry them well.
How can I make this recipe lighter or dairy-free?
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For dairy-free, use coconut cream or unsweetened plant-based milk. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a creamy taste.
Can I prepare Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts in advance?
You can prep this dish ahead. Trim and halve the sprouts early and store them. Make the sauce and refrigerate it. Then, roast the sprouts and mix with the sauce for the best taste.
What are the best main dishes to serve with Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
This side dish goes great with many main courses. Try it with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or holiday turkey. It’s perfect for any meal, from weeknights to special occasions.
How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming soggy?
To keep sprouts crispy, dry them well before roasting. Roast at high heat (around 425°F). Spread them out and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. This way, they’ll get crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Are Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts keto-friendly?
Yes, they fit the keto diet well. Brussels sprouts are low in carbs, and the creamy sauce is keto-friendly. Just watch your portion sizes and extra ingredients.
How long can I store leftover Creamy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve their texture.

Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add Brussels sprouts and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Add the Parmesan:
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce thicken for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm as a creamy, flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For a crispy topping, broil the Brussels sprouts for 2 minutes after adding Parmesan.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Pairs well with grilled chicken or steak.