Creamed Brussels Sprouts: The Perfect Side Dish for Ham Recipes

When you’re planning the ultimate holiday feast or preparing a delicious dinner for your family, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. One side dish that pairs perfectly with ham is Creamed Brussels Sprouts. Whether it’s for a traditional Christmas dinner, Easter celebration, or just a hearty meal, this dish is a fantastic addition to your spread. Creamy, savory, and packed with nutrients, these Brussels sprouts are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a Creamed Brussels Sprouts recipe that is not only easy to make but also SEO-optimized with key ingredients and keywords like Ham Recipes for Dinner, What to Make with Ham, Sides to Serve with Ham, and many more.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 230mg

Preparation Time:

• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cook: 25 minutes
• Total: 35 minutes

Servings:

• 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup crispy bacon crumbles (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Slice off the tough stems and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer a more bite-sized piece, you can quarter them. Set aside and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Step 2: Blanch the Brussels Sprouts

Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender. This step helps soften the sprouts and removes any bitterness. Drain the Brussels sprouts in a colander and set them aside. You can even blanch them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for later use, making this a cheap dinner for a family option that’s quick to assemble when needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking them until they are fragrant and the onions have softened, about 3 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your creamed Brussels sprouts and provides a rich, savory taste that will complement the ham dishes for dinner you may be preparing.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Once the garlic and onions have softened, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, and allow the cream to come to a gentle simmer. This will help thicken the sauce and create the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. Add the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Brussels Sprouts with the Cream Sauce

Add the drained Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat the sprouts evenly in the sauce. Allow the Brussels sprouts to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring they absorb the rich, creamy flavors. The Brussels sprouts should be tender, but still slightly crisp in texture, making them the perfect complement to what goes with ham.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the creamy sauce, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you want to add a bit of crunch and a savory element, sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles over the top. Bacon and Brussels sprouts are a timeless combination, and the salty bacon adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce.

Why Creamed Brussels Sprouts Go So Well with Ham:

When you think about what to serve with ham, Brussels sprouts should be at the top of your list. Their mild bitterness provides a perfect balance to the rich, salty flavors of ham, especially during festive occasions like Christmas and Easter. The creamy sauce enriches the Brussels sprouts, making them an indulgent side that is still fresh and light enough to pair with ham recipes for dinner.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside sides to serve with ham, such as mashed potatoes, baked sweet potatoes, or roasted carrots. Creamed Brussels sprouts will elevate the flavor profile of your meal without overpowering the main dish. They’re also cheap dinners for a family, as the ingredients are simple and can be found easily in most pantries.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Brussels Sprouts: Be sure not to overcook your Brussels sprouts. While they should be tender, they should still retain some texture, adding a satisfying bite to the dish. Overcooking can lead to mushy Brussels sprouts, which will diminish the dish’s appeal.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts, garlic, and onions will yield the best flavor for this dish. While frozen Brussels sprouts are available, fresh ones will give the dish a much better texture and taste.
• Make It Ahead of Time: Creamed Brussels sprouts can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary. This is especially useful if you’re preparing for large family gatherings or holiday meals like Easter sides with ham.
• Add Your Own Twist: Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. A touch of Dijon mustard can add a zingy flavor, while a handful of roasted nuts can bring an extra crunch. For a more decadent version, you could stir in some shredded cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays:

Christmas and Easter sides with ham can be tricky, as you want to choose something that complements the rich, savory flavors of the ham without overwhelming it. Creamed Brussels sprouts offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The creaminess of the sauce soothes the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while the Parmesan and nutmeg bring a deep, warm flavor. Paired with ham, this dish creates a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant—perfect for any special occasion.

What Goes with Ham? A Complete Meal Suggestion

If you’re wondering what to serve with ham, this creamed Brussels sprouts recipe is just the beginning. To complete the meal, consider these additional sides:

1. Mashed Potatoes with Gravy – A creamy, buttery classic that never disappoints.
2. Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme – Sweet, tender carrots provide a great contrast to the savory ham.
3. Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Another rich, creamy dish that complements the ham beautifully.
4. Glazed Sweet Potatoes – Sweet, caramelized potatoes balance the saltiness of the ham.
5. Cranberry Sauce – A tart and sweet option that provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the ham and Brussels sprouts.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a festive meal for Christmas, preparing a hearty dinner for Easter, or just looking for a delicious side to serve with your weeknight ham dishes for dinner, creamed Brussels sprouts are the answer. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also a great way to get your family to eat more vegetables while enjoying a comforting, flavorful dish.

Incorporating cream-based Brussels sprouts into your meal ensures that your family and guests will have a memorable dining experience. This dish is the perfect complement to any ham recipes for dinner, making it an indispensable addition to your holiday meals and everyday dinners alike.

Conclusion

Incorporating creamed Brussels sprouts into your ham dinner recipes is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with ham and provides a rich, creamy, and flavorful side that will delight your guests. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, preparing for Easter, or just looking for an easy side to serve with ham, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With a balance of flavor, texture, and nutrients, it’s the perfect choice for your next dinner.