Creamy Spaghetti with Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Crumb Topping

If your love for pasta knows no bounds, this recipe is for you. Al dente spaghetti, shredded Brussels sprouts, Parmesan, lemon and chives come together in a combination that’s hearty, satisfying and classically comforting. A sprinkle of chili flakes and crunchy toasted panko over the top takes things to the next level.

This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. The creamy sauce, made with a cheese roux and cream cheese, coats every strand of pasta, while the Brussels sprouts add a fresh, slightly nutty flavor. The panko topping provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Log in to save recipes and build weekly shopping lists.

Ingredients

8 ounce Brussels SproutsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.25 ounce ChivesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit LemonView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 ounce SpaghettiView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Garlic Herb ButterView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 ounce Cheese Roux ConcentrateView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon Chili FlakesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 teaspoon Olive OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Wash and dry produce. Mince chives. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts lengthwise; lay flat, then thinly slice crosswise into shreds. Zest and quarter lemon.
2. Once water is boiling, add spaghetti to pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1½ cups pasta cooking water (2 cups for 4 servings), then drain. (Keep empty pot handy for step 4.) Meanwhile, melt 1 TBSP plain butter (2 TBSP for 4) in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add panko and cook, stirring, until golden and toasted, 2-3 minutes. Stir in half the chives and season with salt and pepper. Turn off heat; transfer to a small bowl. Wipe out pan.
3. Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in same pan over medium-high heat. Add Brussels sprouts and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly softened, 4-6 minutes. Stir in a pinch of chili flakes if desired; cook for 30 seconds more. Turn off heat.
4. Once spaghetti is drained, heat empty pot over medium heat. Add cheese roux and 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water (1½ cups for 4 servings); whisk to combine. Cook, whisking, until slightly thickened, 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium low and whisk in cream cheese until melted and combined.
5. Add drained spaghetti, Brussels sprouts, garlic herb butter, Parmesan, half the lemon zest, remaining chives and a big squeeze of lemon juice to pot with sauce. Cook, tossing, until butter melts and pasta is coated in a creamy sauce, 1 minute. TIP: If needed, stir in more reserved pasta cooking water a splash at a time. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add more lemon juice if desired.
6. Divide pasta between bowls. Top with panko and remaining lemon zest to taste. Sprinkle with remaining chili flakes if desired. Serve with any remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?

Yes, gluten-free spaghetti works well. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.

Can I substitute the Brussels sprouts?

Shredded kale or cabbage can be used as a substitute, though cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.