If you’re craving a dish that beautifully combines richness, freshness, and a hint of green goodness, the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Brussels Sprouts Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe brings together tender al dente pasta tossed in a decadent, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, while the caramelized Brussels sprouts add a delightful texture and a slightly nutty flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re after a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with something both comforting and elegant, this dish hits all the right notes with simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just a handful of essential ingredients that together create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and a beautiful balance of creamy and fresh. Each component plays a role, from the nutty char on the Brussels sprouts to the sharp tang of Parmesan, making this recipe truly special.
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne): Cook to al dente for the perfect bite and to hold onto that luscious sauce.
- 2 cups fresh Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved so they caramelize beautifully and add crunch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce a rich, smooth texture that’s utterly irresistible.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and natural thickening power with its nutty, savory flavor.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Provides that warm, aromatic foundation that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing Brussels sprouts until golden and tender.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the fresh flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of vibrant color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this will come in handy later to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help everything blend beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the Brussels sprouts cut side down in the pan—it’s a great trick to get that irresistible golden crust. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. This step brings out their natural sweetness and adds a fantastic texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic directly to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. The garlic softens and releases its aromatic flavor, infusing the dish with that perfect savory undertone. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the Heavy Cream
Slowly pour the heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to let it simmer gently. This allows the cream to thicken slightly, creating the rich foundation for the sauce. Take your time here; a slow simmer will help the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 5: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
Next, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to encourage it to melt smoothly into the cream. This step turns your sauce wonderfully creamy and adds a deliciously sharp, nutty flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly whisk in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet with your rich, creamy sauce and Brussels sprouts. Toss everything gently until every strand or piece of pasta is luxuriously coated. Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste as you go—you want that well-balanced, flavorful finish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For the final flourish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. This not only adds a pop of green but also gives a subtle herbal brightness that complements the creamy sauce and earthy Brussels sprouts. Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Besides chopped fresh parsley, you can add a light dusting of extra Parmesan or even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a glossy finish. A few toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top can add a wonderful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to this already amazing dish.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a simple garlic bread on the side also complement and round out the meal perfectly, making it feel festive and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine serving the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Brussels Sprouts Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of parsley and a freshly cracked black pepper. Or try plating it in a rustic cast-iron skillet at the table for that cozy, family-style charm that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers of this delightful dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making reheated portions just as enjoyable.
Freezing
While you can freeze the pasta, the creamy texture may change slightly upon thawing because of the cheese and cream. If you want to freeze it, portion it out and use within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and stir frequently to prevent it from sticking or curdling. Microwave works too—just heat in short bursts and stir well in between.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan provides a classic nutty flavor and thickening ability, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different taste. Just keep in mind that these cheeses may alter the saltiness and texture of the sauce.
Are canned or frozen Brussels sprouts suitable for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for their crisp texture and vibrant flavor, which really shine when sautéed. Using canned or frozen may result in a softer texture that doesn’t caramelize as well, reducing that wonderful contrast in the dish.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Both fettuccine and penne work wonderfully because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. You can also try rigatoni or even spaghetti, depending on your personal preference. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To keep it vegetarian, this recipe already fits perfectly if you use Parmesan made without animal rennet. For a vegan twist, substitute dairy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan Parmesan alternatives. The Brussels sprouts and garlic will still shine through beautifully.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This dish is fantastic for meal prep since it holds well in the fridge and tastes great reheated. Just keep the pasta water handy when reheating to bring back that creamy, saucy consistency. It’s a comforting, quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Brussels Sprouts Recipe that makes it a standout in any recipe collection. It’s rich yet fresh, simple yet elegant, and perfect for when you want to feel cozy without sacrificing incredible flavor. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself—once you do, it’s sure to become a beloved go-to dish for many meals ahead!
