Longhorn Brussels Sprouts: A Recipe for the Ages
This recipe elevates the humble Brussels sprout into a culinary masterpiece. Forget boiled or roasted sprouts—this method delivers perfectly caramelized, tender-crisp vegetables with a smoky depth of flavor that will impress even the most discerning sprout-skeptic. The addition of Longhorn cheese adds a creamy, savory counterpoint that completes this dish beautifully. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup Longhorn cheese, shredded (or your favorite sharp cheese)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional, but highly recommended!)
Equipment You Might Need:
- Large skillet (cast iron is ideal)
- Large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparation:
- Prep the sprouts: Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Halve or quarter them depending on their size. You want relatively uniform pieces for even cooking.
Cooking Process:
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Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the sprouts.
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Sear the sprouts: Add the Brussels sprouts to the hot skillet, cut-side down. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Sear for 3-4 minutes until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
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Cook through: Flip the sprouts and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Longhorn cheese over the sprouts. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become slightly gooey.
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Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if using. This adds a sweet and tangy touch that perfectly balances the savory cheese and slightly bitter sprouts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would make a fantastic addition.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder.
- Different cheese: Feel free to substitute your favorite sharp cheese for the Longhorn. Cheddar, Gruyere, or even Parmesan would work well.
- Make it a meal: Serve these delicious Brussels sprouts as a side dish with your favorite protein and starch.
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