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#### 1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts**
Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cutting them in half. If the sprouts are particularly large, you can quarter them to ensure they cook evenly.
#### 2. **Cook the Brussels Sprouts**
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and tender—about 8-10 minutes. You want a slight crispiness on the edges, which adds flavor and texture to the dish.
#### 3. **Sauté the Garlic**
Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
#### 4. **Make the Creamy Sauce**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, chicken or vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and combined. This will form a rich, creamy sauce with a nice balance of tangy and savory flavors.
#### 5. **Combine the Brussels Sprouts and Sauce**
Pour the creamy mustard sauce over the cooked Brussels sprouts and garlic in the skillet. Stir well to coat the sprouts evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm through and slightly thicken.
#### 6. **Season and Garnish**
Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a little extra flavor, feel free to sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top for added crunch and smokiness. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**
Serve the creamy Brussels sprouts as a side dish with your favorite protein, like roasted chicken, steak, or even a vegetarian dish like lentils or quinoa. The rich, creamy sauce makes this dish a standout, and it’s sure to become a go-to for your next meal.
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– **Don’t Overcook the Brussels Sprouts**: Overcooking Brussels sprouts can make them mushy and bitter. Keep an eye on them while sautéing, and aim for a golden, slightly crispy exterior with a tender interior.
– **Make It Extra Creamy**: If you love a really rich and creamy texture, add a bit more heavy cream or even a splash of milk to the sauce. You can also use full-fat cream cheese for extra richness.
– **Use Whole Grain Mustard**: For a more textured sauce, swap out Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard. It will give the dish a little extra bite and visual appeal.
– **Add Some Protein**: If you want to make this dish a more substantial meal, consider adding some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits to the Brussels sprouts.
– **Make It Ahead of Time**: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
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### **Why This Dish Works So Well**
Brussels sprouts, when cooked properly, are tender and slightly nutty, and their flavor complements the creamy sauce beautifully. The mustard adds a zesty, tangy punch that balances the richness of the cream cheese, creating a dish that is both comforting and vibrant.
This dish is also highly versatile. While it makes a fantastic side dish for roasted meats like turkey, pork, or beef, it can also stand on its own as a vegetarian meal or be paired with a light salad for a complete lunch. The creamy sauce is indulgent yet not overwhelming, making it a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties or family meals.
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### **Conclusion:**
So the next time you want to wow your guests or treat your family to something special, whip up this creamy Brussels sprouts dish—it’s sure to impress!
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