Brussels Sprouts in a Creamy Cream Cheese and Mustard Sauce

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### **Instructions:**

#### 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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### **Tips for the Perfect Brussels Sprouts in Creamy Cream Cheese and Mustard Sauce**

– **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:**

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, this **Brussels Sprouts in a Creamy Cream Cheese and Mustard Sauce** recipe is a must-try! The combination of creamy cream cheese, tangy mustard, and perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts creates a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, this recipe will make Brussels sprouts a star on your dinner table.

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!