Looking for a dish that combines comfort, health, and flavour in one bubbling, cheesy delight? This Easy Brussel Sprout Casserole Recipe is precisely what you need! Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish for the holidays, this recipe will deliver every time. Packed with wholesome ingredients, bursting with cheesy goodness, and incredibly versatile, it’s bound to become a favourite in your home.
This guide will walk you through every step of creating this satisfying dish. You’ll also discover how to adapt it to suit different diets, tips for elevating the flavour, and even serving suggestions that make it perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make the best Cheesy Brussel Sprout Casserole today.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Brussel Sprout Casserole
1. Family-Friendly and Delicious
This recipe is perfect for families because it combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts. Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds! Plus, it’s a one-dish meal quick to prepare, making busy weeknights stress-free.
2. Nutritional Benefits
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Combined with other wholesome ingredients, this casserole perfectly balances indulgence and health.
3. Versatile and Adaptable
Whether you’re making a Holiday Brussel Sprout Casserole or a Healthy Brussel Sprout Casserole, this recipe can be easily customized to fit your needs. From gluten-free to vegetarian, the options are endless!
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ pounds (700 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
1. Brussel Sprouts
Sprouts are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness and slight crunch make them perfect for casseroles. If fresh sprouts aren’t available, frozen ones work just as well. Simply thaw and pat them dry before using.
2. Cheese
A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates an irresistible cheesy pull. For added depth of flavor, experiment with gruyere or parmesan.
3. Heavy Cream
This forms the creamy base of the casserole. You can substitute with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.
4. Breadcrumbs (Optional)
To add a crispy topping, breadcrumbs or panko are great options. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Garlic and Seasonings
Fresh garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg bring out the best flavours in this dish.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Prepping the Brussel Sprouts
Trim the ends of the sprouts and remove any wilted outer leaves. Slice them in half to ensure even cooking. If using large sprouts, quarter them for faster cooking.
Step 2 – Shredding the Cheese
Grate your cheese fresh for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect its melting quality.
Step 3 – Preparing the Cream Mixture
Whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a small bowl. This mixture will coat the brussel sprouts and form the creamy base of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2 – Assembling the Casserole
Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in the greased dish. Pour the cream mixture over them and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top and gently mix.
Step 3 – Baking and Finishing Touches
Cover the dish with aluminium foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs (if using), and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
For more flavour, add cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or roasted mushrooms. These ingredients pair beautifully with Brussels sprouts and cheese.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
Roast the Brussels sprouts before assembling the casserole for a smoky, caramelized taste. Toast the breadcrumbs in butter before sprinkling them on top for extra crunch.
Adjustments for Preferences
Swap out the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or use low-fat cheese to make a healthier version.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
Omit any meat additions like bacon, and add extra vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds as a topping.
Other Adaptations
Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick, or add a touch of Dijon mustard to the cream mixture for tanginess.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
For a balanced meal, serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or a warm bowl of tomato basil soup.
Hearty Sides
Pair it with roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a wild rice pilaf for a filling dinner.
Drink Recommendations
White wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a hot cup of green tea beautifully complement the dish’s richness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For extended storage, freeze individual portions for up to two months.
Reheating Techniques
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or until heated through. For a quick option, use a microwave, but note that the topping may lose its crispness.
Portioning Tips
Divide the casserole into single-serving portions before freezing to make reheating easier and more efficient.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Nutritional Values per Serving
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, 12g protein, 18g fat, and 8g carbs.
Ingredient Benefits
Brussels sprouts are high in fiber and antioxidants, cheese provides calcium and protein, and heavy cream adds a dose of healthy fats.
Recommended Portions
A serving size of about 1 cup is ideal, making this dish perfect for meal prep or portion control.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Brussels sprouts
Overcooked sprouts can become mushy. Be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
Using Too Much Liquid
Excess cream can make the casserole soggy. Stick to the recommended measurements.
Skipping the Cheese Topping
The cheese topping is what gives the casserole its irresistible golden crust. Don’t skimp on it!
Inspiring Conclusion
This Cheesy Brussels sprout Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it at a festive holiday table or enjoying it as a weeknight comfort meal, its creamy, cheesy, and wholesome flavours will bring joy to every bite. Try it today and make it your own by adding your favourite ingredients. Share your creations with friends and family—good food is always better when shared!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? Absolutely. To avoid excess moisture, just thaw and pat them dry before using them.
- What cheese works best? Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but gruyere, parmesan, or smoky gouda can elevate the flavor.
- Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes! The cheesy goodness often wins over even the pickiest eaters.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven to 350°F for the best texture.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze it after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture.
- What other vegetables can I add? Mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower make great additions.
- Is this casserole gluten-free? It can be! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Easy Brussel Sprout Casserole Recipe! Happy cooking!
Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe
Brussels Sprout Casserole
Ingredients
- 1½ po (700 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.Blanch Brussels sprouts in boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until melted.Combine the blanched Brussels sprouts with the creamy cheese sauce.Transfer to the prepared baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a richer flavor.
- Add cooked bacon bits to the casserole for extra texture and taste.