There’s something revitalizing about transforming humble ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent and comforting. The moment I decided to make a creamy Brussels sprout gratin with walnuts, my skepticism turned to excitement. Would these little green gems really shine when dressed up in rich double cream and nuanced white wine? Spoiler alert: they absolutely do!
This recipe effortlessly combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the richness of gruyère and the crunch of walnuts, creating not just a side dish, but a showstopper. As it bakes, the aromas wafting from the oven invite everyone to the table, promising delightful flavors that will make even the most ardent vegetable skeptics curious.
Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings, this gratin strikes a balance between being a crowd-pleaser and a simple delight to prepare. Join me in elevating your time spent in the kitchen with this quick, creamy, and utterly delicious Brussels sprout gratin!
Why is Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The harmony of creamy double cream, white wine, and gruyère creates a unique taste that elevates Brussels sprouts to new heights.
Crunchy Delight: The addition of walnuts not only adds texture but also enhances the nuttiness of the dish.
Quick & Easy: With just a 20-25 minute bake time, you can have a gourmet dish ready to impress your guests or family.
Versatile Side or Main: Whether paired with roasted meats or enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian meal, this gratin fits into any occasion.
Comforting Aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering scents, making it hard to resist a sneak peek before serving!
Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts Ingredients
For the Gratin
• 300g brussels sprouts – fresh sprouts are key to bringing that vibrant, earthy flavor to your dish.
• 200ml double cream – this rich cream adds luxurious creaminess that binds all the flavors together.
• 40ml dry white wine – use a wine you enjoy drinking; it contributes a subtle acidity for balance.
• 1 small garlic clove, chopped – elevates the dish with its aromatic essence, perfect for a comforting flavor profile.
• Grating of fresh nutmeg – just a pinch adds warmth and a hint of spice that works beautifully with the cream.
For the Topping
• 30g gruyère, grated – this cheese melts beautifully, offering a rich flavor; a vegetarian alternative works too!
• 30g shelled walnuts, crushed – provides a delightful crunch and complements the creaminess in the gratin.
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs – these add a crispy layer on top, making it irresistible.
• Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling – a touch of oil enhances the flavors and helps achieve that golden crust.
How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts
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Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6. This initial step sets the stage for a beautifully baked gratin, so ensure your oven is hot and ready to work its magic on those sprouts.
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Halve the Brussels sprouts and lay them, cut-side up, in a 20cm x 20cm shallow ovenproof dish. This arrangement allows the cream mixture to soak into the sprouts, infusing them with flavor.
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Mix the cream with the dry white wine, chopped garlic, and freshly grated nutmeg in a small bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper, then pour this luscious blend over the sprouts, leaving just their tops peeking through.
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Combine the grated gruyère, crushed walnuts, and breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Season with a little salt and pepper, then sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the sprouts.
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Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over the top for that golden, bubbly finish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the gratin is beautifully bubbling.
Optional: Finish with fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts
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Choose Fresh Sprouts: Opt for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts. Avoid those with yellow or wilted leaves to ensure maximum flavor in your gratin.
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Cream Balance: When mixing your cream with wine and spices, ensure you season generously with salt and pepper to bring out the dish’s rich taste.
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Even Baking: Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer—this ensures even cooking and prevents any soggy bits, letting the creamy Brussels sprout gratin with walnuts shine!
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Watch the Topping: Keep an eye on the gratin during the last few minutes of baking. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
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Add Herbs: For an aromatic finish, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary before serving. This adds a burst of freshness to your comforting dish!
What to Serve with Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts?
Transform your meal into a delightful experience with a thoughtful selection of side dishes that will complement this creamy treat.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds a savory protein that balances the rich and creamy gratin beautifully. Perfect for creating a comforting dinner.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy, buttery potatoes provide a cozy, hearty contrast to the gratin. The garlic flavor elevates the entire meal, making each bite harmonious.
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Cranberry Sauce: A zesty, sweet cranberry sauce introduces a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness, adding brightness to the table.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon zest bring a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to your plate, enhancing the overall presentation.
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Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty quinoa salad topped with fresh herbs and lemon adds an earthy contrast, rounding out the dish with fresh, wholesome flavors.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay harmonizes with the creamy aspect of the gratin while complementing the dish’s earthy flavors, making it the ideal drink for this meal.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream offers a sweet finish, contrasting the textures and flavors from the main dish wonderfully.
With these carefully curated pairings, you’re ready to elevate your dining experience with the delightful creamy Brussels sprout gratin with walnuts!
Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Vegan: Swap the double cream for coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese for the topping, making it a dairy-free delight.
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and replace them with crispy panko breadcrumbs for that crunch without the nuts. You’ll still achieve a fantastic texture!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a delightful kick that warms the palate.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value while keeping the rich, creamy finish everyone loves.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon into the cream for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses—try sharp cheddar or a blend of blue cheese for a tangy and robust flavor.
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Bacon Boost: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that complements the creaminess of the gratin beautifully. Trust me, this addition is a total game-changer!
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Different Sprouts: Substitute with roasted cauliflower or broccoli to change up the base and enjoy a different take on this indulgent dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts by halving and laying them in the dish up to 24 hours in advance, then cover them to keep them fresh. The cream mixture can also be made ahead and refrigerated overnight; just give it a good stir before pouring it over the sprouts. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply sprinkle the topping and bake as instructed for 20-25 minutes. This way, you can have a delicious, crowd-pleasing side with minimal effort on your serving day!
Storage Tips for Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts
Fridge: Store any leftover creamy Brussels sprout gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavors and creamy texture.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze the gratin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake again at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent burning until it’s heated through.
Tips: If freezing, it’s best to omit the breadcrumb topping initially. Add fresh breadcrumbs before reheating for a delightful crunch in your creamy Brussels sprout gratin with walnuts!
Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green ones. Avoid those with yellow leaves or dark spots, as they indicate aging. You want to pick sprouts that are tightly packed and have a fresh smell to ensure they’re bursting with flavor for your creamy Brussels sprout gratin with walnuts.
How should I store leftover Brussels sprout gratin?
Very! Leftover creamy Brussels sprout gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before covering to prevent condensation, which can make the topping soggy.
Can I freeze this gratin for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your creamy Brussels sprout gratin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air can enter. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, I recommend omitting the breadcrumb topping before freezing; add fresh breadcrumbs before reheating to retain that desired crispiness.
What’s the best way to reheat the gratin?
Of course! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw your gratin in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and cover the dish with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, and remove the foil for the last few minutes to re-crisp the top.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this gratin. For a dairy-free option, substitute the double cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cheese alternative. Just ensure your chosen alternative still melts well and holds moisture for that creamy texture your gratin needs. Furthermore, if you have nut allergies, feel free to leave the walnuts out, though they do add a delightful crunch!
What should I do if my gratin doesn’t bubble or brown?
Oftentimes, it’s an easy fix! If your creamy Brussels sprout gratin doesn’t appear bubbly or isn’t browning as desired, it may need a little longer in the oven. If after extending the time by 5-10 minutes it still isn’t golden, check to ensure your oven is properly calibrated. If the topping starts to darken too quickly, simply cover it with foil while the rest finishes cooking.
Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin with Walnuts for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6.
- Halve the Brussels sprouts and lay them, cut-side up, in a 20cm x 20cm shallow ovenproof dish.
- Mix the cream with the dry white wine, chopped garlic, and freshly grated nutmeg in a small bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper, then pour this blend over the sprouts.
- Combine the grated gruyère, crushed walnuts, and breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle this topping over the sprouts.
- Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over the top. Place in the preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.