Beef Brussels Sprouts Gratin

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion – Savory beef, sharp cheddar, and hearty Brussels sprouts combine for a dish packed with deep, rich flavors.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Even those hesitant about Brussels sprouts will love the cheesy, meaty bite.
• Easy to Make – With simple steps and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile – It pairs beautifully with festive meals and casual weeknight dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep in advance and broil just before serving for a hassle-free meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Brussels Sprouts – Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and creates crisp edges.
• Ground Beef or Shredded Beef – Adds rich, savory depth and hearty texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• Fontina Cheese (Optional) – Offers extra creaminess for an ultra-luxurious gratin.
• Heavy Cream – The base of the cheese sauce, ensuring a velvety consistency.
• Egg – Helps bind the gratin and enhances richness.
• Rosemary – A fresh herb that balances the richness with earthy notes.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Enhance the savory depth without overpowering.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Adds a hint of spice for extra dimension.

Directions

Preparation

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). High heat helps caramelize the Brussels sprouts, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Wash and Halve the Brussels Sprouts:
Thoroughly rinse 1 ½ pounds of Brussels sprouts. Trim the stems and cut each sprout in half lengthwise.

Toss and Season:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Spread Evenly:
Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking dish to ensure even roasting.

Roast:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the sprouts are partially tender and beginning to caramelize.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 sprig of minced fresh rosemary
• Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

Add the Cheeses:
Fold in:

• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated fontina cheese
• Stir until the cheeses are evenly incorporated into the creamy mixture.

Assemble the Gratin

Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground or shredded beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Layer the Ingredients:

• Sprinkle ¾ of the cooked beef over the partially roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Evenly pour the prepared cheese and cream mixture over the beef and Brussels sprouts. Stir gently to coat everything thoroughly.
• Scatter the remaining beef on top for extra flavor.

Final Baking

Reduce the Oven Temperature:
Lower the oven to 350ºF (177ºC).

Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.

Serving

Cool Slightly:
Let the gratin rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Serve:
Scoop out portions with a large spoon, ensuring each serving includes a generous mix of Brussels sprouts, beef, and creamy cheese. Garnish with rosemary if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheese Swaps: Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower or broccoli for the Brussels sprouts.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
• Make it a Meal: Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham for extra protein.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm in a 350ºF (177ºC) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Freeze: While the cheese sauce may slightly change in texture upon thawing, you can freeze the gratin for up to 2 months. Wrap well in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this gratin even creamier?

Use extra heavy cream or add a bit of cream cheese for a richer texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! Assemble everything ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

What’s the best type of beef to use?

Ground beef works well for easy preparation, but shredded beef adds a heartier texture.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh is best for roasting, but you can use frozen—just thaw and pat dry first.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this gratin?

It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a crisp green salad.

Can I make this dish without dairy?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too oily?

Use high-quality cheese and avoid overcooking to keep the texture smooth.

Is this gratin spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Thyme, oregano, or sage work well in place of rosemary.

What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?

Broil the gratin for the last few minutes of baking to achieve a golden, bubbly crust.

Conclusion

Beef Brussels Sprouts Gratin is the perfect balance of hearty and indulgent, making it a fantastic addition to both holiday spreads and cozy weeknight meals. The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, rich cheese, and savory beef creates a dish that is comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Try it once, and it might just become a new favorite at your table!

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