Description
This Brussels Sprout Gratin is a creamy, cheesy baked casserole featuring tender Brussels sprouts enveloped in a luscious blue cheese sauce and topped with crunchy sliced almonds for a delightful texture contrast. Baked to golden perfection, this dish makes an elegant side perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts
Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 4 oz Frigo ® Crumbled Blue Cheese
Topping
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the Brussels sprouts and cook them for 3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain well and transfer the sprouts to a greased baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Make the Roux and Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste, cooking it gently for 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the 2% milk and increase the heat to medium. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Add Blue Cheese to Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and crumble the blue cheese into the hot sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted completely into the sauce. Season cautiously with salt and pepper to taste, mindful that blue cheese adds a salty element.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the creamy blue cheese sauce evenly over the Brussels sprouts in the baking dish. Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top for added crunch. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook Brussels sprouts during boiling; they should remain slightly firm to prevent mushiness after baking.
- Adjust seasoning carefully, as blue cheese is naturally salty and pungent.
- Sliced almonds add texture and a nutty flavor, but you can substitute with breadcrumbs for a different topping.
- Serving suggestion: pairs well with roasted meats or as a hearty vegetarian main dish with a side of crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Brussels sprouts gratin, blue cheese casserole, baked Brussels sprouts, almond topping, creamy vegetable side dish
