Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Rice Bake
This delightful Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Rice Bake is a perfect side dish or a hearty lunch option that will complement any large meal. Featuring tender Brussels sprouts nestled atop a bed of fluffy long-grain rice, all smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with crispy prosciutto and crunchy breadcrumbs, this casserole delivers exceptional flavor and texture. Quick and easy, this dish can also be prepared in under 30 minutes using condensed soup for those busy days. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen Brussels sprouts
10 ounces (thawed)
Water
1/4 cup (for steaming)
Margarine
1 tablespoon (for melting)
All-purpose flour
2 tablespoons (for thickening)
1% low-fat milk
1 1/2 cups (for the sauce)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
White pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Cooking spray
as needed (for greasing)
Cooked long-grain rice
1 cup (for the base)
Prosciutto or ham
1 ounce (thinly sliced and cut into strips)
Fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 cup (for topping)
Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (freshly grated for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Place the frozen Brussels sprouts in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle with water, cover the bowl, and microwave on high for about 2 minutes until heated through.
3
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, melt the margarine. Once melted, whisk in the flour until well combined. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously.
4
Increase the heat to medium, bringing the mixture to a boil. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened and become bubbly.
5
Stir in the salt and white pepper, then remove from heat and set aside.
6
Coat a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Evenly spread the cooked rice across the bottom of the dish. Arrange the steamed Brussels sprouts on top of the rice.
7
Sprinkle the prosciutto (or ham) evenly over the Brussels sprouts, and pour the creamy sauce over the entire layer.
8
In a small bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle the mixture over the sauce for added crunch.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and crispy. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious casserole!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Rice Bake?
It is a hearty side dish or lunch option featuring tender Brussels sprouts and long-grain rice in a creamy sauce topped with prosciutto and Parmesan.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What type of Brussels sprouts should I use?
The recipe calls for 10 ounces of frozen Brussels sprouts, thawed.
How do I prepare the sprouts before baking?
Microwave them in a bowl with 1/4 cup water for about 2 minutes until heated through.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The sauce is a roux-based white sauce made from melted margarine, all-purpose flour, and 1% low-fat milk.
How much margarine and flour are needed for the sauce?
Use 1 tablespoon of margarine and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
How long should the sauce simmer?
Simmer the mixture for 3 minutes while stirring constantly until it is thick and bubbly.
What seasonings are added to the sauce?
Season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of white pepper.
What kind of rice is best for this bake?
One cup of cooked long-grain rice is recommended for the base.
Should the rice be cooked or raw when assembling?
The rice must be fully cooked before being spread into the baking dish.
What size baking dish do I need?
A 9-inch baking dish is the appropriate size for this recipe.
What meat is used in this casserole?
One ounce of thinly sliced prosciutto or ham is used for flavor.
How is the dish layered?
Start with rice, followed by Brussels sprouts, then prosciutto, and finally the creamy sauce.
What ingredients make up the crunchy topping?
The topping consists of 1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
How long does the dish bake?
Bake the casserole for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
It is ready when the top is lightly browned and crispy.
Is there a faster way to make the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the homemade sauce with condensed soup for a quicker preparation.
Can this recipe be vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the prosciutto or ham to make it a vegetarian side dish.
What type of milk should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 1/2 cups of 1% low-fat milk.
How should I prepare the baking dish?
Coat the 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is a great option for meal prep or family gatherings.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter can be used as a 1:1 substitute for margarine in the sauce.
How should the prosciutto be prepared?
The prosciutto or ham should be thinly sliced and cut into strips.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
While fresh is recommended, pre-grated Parmesan will also work for the topping.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It features fluffy rice and tender sprouts in a rich sauce with a crunchy, cheesy topping.
Is this a side dish or a main course?
It works perfectly as a side dish or a hearty lunch.
Can I use fresh Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but you will need to steam or boil them until tender before following the assembly instructions.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients including seasonings and cooking spray.
Should I serve this dish warm?
Yes, the casserole is best enjoyed immediately after baking while warm.