Brussels Sprouts And Celery In Cheese Sauce
Creamy Brussels sprouts and celery cooked in a rich cheese sauce, topped with buttery bread crumbs and paprika, perfect as a comforting vegetable side dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped celery in 3 tablespoons of butter until tender.
- Cook and drain the Brussels sprouts.
- Make a sauce by combining milk, flour, salt, and pepper, and cook until thickened.
- Stir the cooked celery and Brussels sprouts into the sauce.
- Place the mixture in a buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with buttered bread crumbs and paprika.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese sauce, consider adding shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the mixture once thickened. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor of the dish. Additionally, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts if fresh ones aren't available, but ensure they are fully thawed and drained before use.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty salad or some crusty bread. The creamy cheese sauce complements a variety of flavors, making it a versatile side dish that can enhance any main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook to maintain the texture of the Brussels sprouts.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brussels Sprouts And Celery In Cheese Sauce contains roughly 1220 calories, with 41g protein, 247g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (253% of the Daily Value), iron (178% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Brussels sprouts and celery are the stars, you can add other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or even carrots for added color and nutrition. Just ensure that the cooking times are similar to maintain even texture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
What can I substitute for the buttered bread crumbs?
If you want a healthier alternative, consider topping the dish with crushed nuts for a crunchy texture. Alternatively, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil to keep the dish light while still providing a crispy topping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).