Brussels Sprouts Casserole: A Cheesy, Crispy Side with Bacon and Crunch
Smoky bacon, melted cheese, and crisp topping turn veggies into an unforgettable dish.
Brussels Sprouts Casserole: The Ultimate Savory Side Dish
If you’re seeking a dish that elevates an often-underrated vegetable into a superstar of flavor and texture, this Brussels sprouts casserole delivers in every bite. Caramelized sprouts mingle with smoky bacon, creamy cheeses, and a crunchy panko topping to form the perfect centerpiece or side for your dinner table. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy weekend meal, this dish impresses both vegetable enthusiasts and skeptics alike.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Creamy and Comforting: Heavy cream and melted cheese envelope every sprout in rich, velvety flavor.
- Textural Contrast: Crunchy panko topping and crispy bacon add compelling contrast to the tender vegetables.
- Bacon Brings Smoked Depth: A modest amount of bacon infuses the dish with irresistible savor.
- Customizable: Easily swap the cheeses or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts Casserole
For the Casserole
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 lbs. Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (for just a hint of heat)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
- 4 oz. Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded (about 1 cup), divided
- 4 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup), divided
For the Topping
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko crumbs
- 1 tbsp. chopped parsley
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F so it’s ready when you finish prepping the casserole. - Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the chopped bacon until golden and just crispy (6-8 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve the bacon drippings in the pan. - Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Onion
Add the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped onion to the hot skillet. Stir well to coat with bacon fat, then cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes until the sprouts caramelize and brown. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes more until nearly tender. - Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, panko, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until combined. - Combine Casserole Ingredients
Remove sprouts from heat. Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, stirring until evenly coated. Fold in half of each cheese (Monterrey Jack and cheddar) and half the reserved bacon. Mix until combined. - Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses and bacon over the top, followed by the panko mixture. - Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the panko topping is golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser best served hot. Its creamy and savory profile complements classic holiday mains like roast turkey or glazed ham, but it’s just as at home alongside everyday favorites such as roasted chicken or grilled steak.
- Serve with roasted meats (turkey, ham, beef prime rib).
- Add to a vegetarian spread, alongside mashed potatoes or mac and cheese.
- Make it the star of a weeknight dinner with crusty bread and a green salad.
Customizations and Substitutions
- Cheese swaps: Use Gruyère, mozzarella, or Asiago for different flavor profiles.
- Extra vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or cauliflower add variety and nutrition.
- Add spice: For a kick, add diced jalapeños or double the cayenne.
- Low-carb option: Replace panko with crushed pork rinds.
Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts Casserole
- Caramelize for depth: Allow the sprouts to brown without stirring—they’ll develop a delicious toasted flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Watch closely during the final bake; casserole is ready when edges bubble and topping is golden.
- Rest before serving: Five minutes allows the creamy sauce to set, making slicing and scooping easier.
- Layer cheeses: Dividing cheese creates optimal melt and gooey consistency.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: For best texture, warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Add a splash of cream if the casserole seems dry. Individual portions can be microwaved for 30–45 seconds.
- Avoid freezing: Cream-based casseroles may separate or become watery when thawed.
What others are reading
Nutritional Highlights
| Component | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | High in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K |
| Bacon | Provides smokiness, protein |
| Cheese (Monterrey Jack & cheddar) | Calcium, flavor depth |
| Heavy cream | Richness, smooth texture |
| Panko and parsley topping | Crunch, brightness |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for caramelization and texture. Frozen sprouts may be used in a pinch, but thaw and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What cheeses work best?
Monterrey Jack and cheddar offer creaminess and sharpness. Gruyère, Parmesan, or mozzarella are excellent alternatives for more nutty or mild flavors.
How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and cook sprouts in olive oil. Add extra cheese or roasted nuts for added richness and crunch.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Panko is not gluten-free. Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers to make the topping suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I make this ahead?
Assemble up to the baking stage and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Bake just before serving and add a few minutes if baking cold from the fridge.
Expert Tips and Variations
- Mix the cheeses for a multi-layered flavor experience.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
- Stir in roasted garlic or caramelized leeks for extra depth.
- Top with toasted walnuts or sliced almonds for crunch and elegance.
Holiday & Everyday Appeal
Brussels sprouts casserole isn’t just for special occasions. Its comforting nature and bold flavors make it worthy of weeknight effort, and its stunning presentation impresses at every gathering. Customize the casserole for your guests, and bring out new flavors with simple swaps. Pair with anything from roast meats to vegetarian dishes, making it the go-to holiday or everyday vegetable side.
Try These Twists: Inspired Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Sprouts: Add crushed red pepper and toss sprouts with grated garlic and balsamic glaze before baking for heat and complexity.
- Gruyère and Shallots: Use Gruyère cheese and sautéed shallots for French bistro flair.
- Add Chiles: Thinly slice Fresno chiles or jalapeños and toss with sprouts for zing.
- Vegetarian Mushroom Variation: Sauté mushrooms along with onion for added earthiness and moisture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~260
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: 18% Daily Value
Brussels Sprouts Buying & Prepping Tips
- Look for bright green, firm sprouts with compact leaves.
- Trim ends and remove any yellowed outer leaves before halving.
- Halve lengthwise for better caramelization and bite.
- Roast or sauté undisturbed for golden brown crust.
Conclusion: Bring Brussels Sprouts to Life
This creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped casserole unlocks new potential for Brussels sprouts. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays or seeking new comfort food favorites, this dish will have everyone reaching for seconds. From expert tips to creative twists, embrace the versatility and complex flavors of this must-make vegetable side.
References
- https://thenovicechefblog.com/creamy-brussels-sprouts-bake/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-DO0nFgCxA
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37611646/brussels-sprouts-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.delish.com/holiday-recipes/thanksgiving/a44632/cheesy-brussels-sprout-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37328783/brussels-sprouts-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10447/brussels-sprouts-with-balsamic-and-cranberries/
- https://www.mantitlement.com/the-best-brussels-sprouts-casserole/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
