Cheesy Gratin of Brussel Sprouts

I don't buy brussel sprouts...the few times I have they were frozen so when I had to buy fresh and saw them sold still on the stalk I had to get it. I am so easy to amuse=)

This is a very time consuming recipe but delicious!!! Definitely a keeper! I'd also like to try it with cauliflower!

Cheesy Gratin of Brussel Sprouts

4 slices bacon

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

2 pounds fresh brussel sprouts

1 1/2 cups milk

1 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup(4 tablespoons) unsalted butter

5 tablespoons flour

3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 cups grated sharp white cheddar cheese

Paprika(for garnish) optional

Heat a large skillet and crisp-cook the bacon. Transfer it to a plate and set it aside. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the pan. Add the onion to the pan and saute over medium heat 6-7 minutes; add the garlic for the last minute. Scrape the onions and garlic into a large shallow casserole and spread them around evenly.

Trim the brussel sprouts then cut them in half(or quarters if very large) lengthwise. Bring a large soup pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the brussel sprouts. Return to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Drain immediately in a colander for 5 minutes. Transfer to the casserole, spreading the sprouts evenly in the dish. Set aside. Heat oven to 375 F.

Combine the milk and chicken broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer then remove from heat.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the flour and cook, stirring over medium heat, for about 1 minute until the flour is light golden brown. Whisk in half of the hot milk and broth. Heat and whisk for a minute or so, until thick. Add the remaining liquid and cook for about 5 minutes, whisking frequently.

Whisk in the Parmesan cheese, mustard, salt, thyme and pepper. Pour the sauce evenly over the brussel sprouts. Mince the bacon and sprinkle it over the sauce. Sprinkle evenly with Cheddar cheese and dust lightly with Paprika, if desired.