Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Oh, the Brussels sprout. Often misunderstood, sometimes maligned, but always ready for a glow-up! Get ready to transform those mini cabbages into a creamy, dreamy, and surprisingly delicious Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe.

Picture this: tender Brussels sprouts swimming in a rich, cheesy sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. This isn’t your grandma’s boiled sprouts; this is a flavor explosion that will convert even the most skeptical sprout-haters.

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
• Unforgettable Flavor: The creamy cheese sauce perfectly complements the slightly bitter, nutty flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
• Visually Stunning: The golden-brown crust and vibrant green sprouts create an appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Incredibly Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or even as a comforting holiday dish.

Ingredients for Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Brussels Sprouts Opt for Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and tightly packed. Avoid any that are yellowing or have loose leaves.

Chicken Broth This adds moisture and depth of flavor to the casserole. Low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt content.

Heavy Cream This creates the rich and creamy base for the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar cheese provides a tangy and flavorful element to the casserole. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.

Parmesan Cheese Adds a salty and nutty flavor to both the sauce and the topping. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.

Bread Crumbs Panko bread crumbs create a light and crispy topping. You can also use regular bread crumbs, but the texture won’t be as light.

Butter Used to saute the bread crumbs and create a golden-brown, crispy topping. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.

Garlic Powder Adds a subtle garlicky flavor to the casserole. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

Onion Powder Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. A little goes a long way.

Salt and Pepper To taste. Seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors in the Brussels sprouts and cheese sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut the sprouts in half or quarters, depending on their size, so they’re all roughly the same size.

Step 2: Cook the Brussels Sprouts

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. Drain them well and set aside. This step helps to remove some of the bitterness and ensures they’re perfectly tender in the casserole.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the cooked Brussels sprouts and the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat the sprouts evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the Brussels sprouts casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe as a side dish with your favorite protein, or enjoy it as a vegetarian main course. It’s also a fantastic addition to any holiday meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For a seamlessly orchestrated culinary performance, begin by roasting the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. While they roast, prepare the creamy sauce and have your breadcrumb topping ready to go. This ensures everything comes together harmoniously for baking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the Gruyère for another cheese like Fontina or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or a dash of nutmeg to deepen the casserole’s warmth and complexity.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Brussels sprouts casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally.

Here are some foolproof tips for crafting the ultimate Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe:

• For evenly cooked sprouts, ensure they are all roughly the same size before roasting. This promotes uniform tenderness and prevents some from being undercooked.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Overcrowding steams the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them, leading to a soggy casserole instead of a caramelized, crispy one.
• Toast your breadcrumbs in a skillet with melted butter before adding them to the casserole to achieve a golden-brown, irresistibly crunchy topping.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading (very important! don’t write any title for this paragraph))

My aunt Carol once declared this casserole the reason she started liking Brussels sprouts. High praise indeed, and a testament to the power of cheesy deliciousness transforming even the most stubborn vegetable skeptics.

Alright, folks, gather ’round. Let’s talk about Brussels sprouts. I know, I know. For years, these miniature cabbages have been the culinary punching bag, the vegetable equivalent of that one kid in school who always got picked last for dodgeball. But I’m here to tell you that Brussels sprouts deserve a serious image makeover. And what better way to achieve that than with an Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe that’s so good, it’ll convert even the most ardent sprout-hater?

I’m not exaggerating. This isn’t your grandma’s boiled-to-oblivion, sulfur-smelling Brussels sprouts. This is a cheesy, creamy, crunchy masterpiece that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). It’s the Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe you didn’t know you needed.

So, buckle up, butter your baking dish, and prepare to witness the glorious transformation of the humble Brussels sprout!

Why This Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe Rocks

Let’s dive into why this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is not just good, but genuinely crave-worthy. We’re not just masking the flavor of the sprouts; we’re enhancing it!

It’s Unexpectedly Delicious

Seriously. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, while the creamy sauce and crunchy topping add layers of flavor and texture that will blow your mind. It’s a far cry from the bitter, mushy sprouts you might remember from childhood. Think of it as Brussels sprouts, evolved.

It’s Ridiculously Easy

The name doesn’t lie. This Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is straightforward and simple, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. No fancy techniques, no complicated ingredients. Just pure, unadulterated comfort food.

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re serving it to your family, friends, or even your picky-eater nephew, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s the perfect side dish to complement any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled turkey breast.

Gather Your Ingredients for the Best Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Okay, before we get started, let’s make sure we have all our ingredients lined up. Nothing’s worse than getting halfway through a recipe and realizing you’re missing something. Here’s what you’ll need for this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe:

• **Fresh Brussels Sprouts:** The star of the show. About two pounds, trimmed and halved (or quartered if they’re large).
• **Heavy Cream:** This is what makes the sauce ultra-creamy and decadent.
• **Chicken Broth:** Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce, replacing any need for less desirable liquids.
• **Gruyère Cheese:** Trust me on this one. Gruyère has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly. Shredded, of course.
• **Parmesan Cheese:** Because you can never have too much cheese. Also shredded.
• **Butter:** For sautéing and for the breadcrumb topping. Unsalted is best so you can control the salt level.
• **All-Purpose Flour:** To thicken the creamy sauce.
• **Breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
• **Garlic:** Because everything is better with garlic. Minced, please.
• **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.

Let’s Make This Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe!

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe in no time.

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly browned. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, which is crucial for this dish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a separate skillet, melt more butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the sprouts, making sure they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations to Spice Up Your Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Want to take this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe to the next level? Here are a few fun variations to try:

Add Some Protein

Toss in some cooked chicken, turkey, or even some crispy fried tofu for a heartier meal. This turns the casserole into a complete one-dish wonder.

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a little kick. Or, for a smoky flavor, stir in a dash of smoked paprika.

Get Veggie-licious

Mix in other roasted vegetables like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or carrots for a colorful and flavorful twist. Just roast them alongside the Brussels sprouts.

Cheese Please!

Experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. Fontina, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar would all be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

This Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• **As a Side Dish:** Serve it alongside roasted chicken, turkey, lamb, or beef for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• **As a Vegetarian Main Course:** Add some protein like tofu or lentils, and serve it with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
• **For Holiday Gatherings:** This casserole is a perfect addition to your Harvest celebration or Winter holiday dinner spread.
• **As a Potluck Dish:** It travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Troubleshooting Your Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe

Even the best recipes can sometimes go awry. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

• **Brussels Sprouts are Bitter:** Make sure you’re using fresh Brussels sprouts and roasting them properly. Roasting helps to bring out their natural sweetness.
• **Sauce is Too Thin:** Cook the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. If it’s still too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
• **Topping Isn’t Crispy:** Make sure you’re toasting the breadcrumbs separately before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they get nice and crispy in the oven.
• **Casserole is Dry:** Add a little extra heavy cream or chicken broth to the sauce.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading (very important! don’t write any title for this paragraph))

I remember one Harvest celebration where I forgot to buy breadcrumbs. Panic ensued, but then I remembered some leftover crackers. Crushed them up, added some melted butter, and voila! Crisis averted, and the casserole was a hit!

Conclusion for Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe :

This Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish. Remember to roast the Brussels sprouts for maximum flavor, get creative with additions like different cheeses or nuts, and don’t be afraid to make it ahead of time. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch those Brussels sprouts disappear! You might even convert a few sprout skeptics along the way!

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FAQs :

Can I make this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through properly. This is a lifesaver when you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or a busy weeknight dinner. Talk about making life easier! It also gives the flavors more time to meld together, resulting in an even more delicious dish!

What’s the best way to clean Brussels sprouts before using them in this casserole recipe?

Cleaning Brussels sprouts is a breeze. First, give them a good rinse under cold water. Then, trim off the very bottom of the stem and remove any outer leaves that look wilted or damaged. If the sprouts are particularly large, you can cut them in half or even quarter them. This helps them cook more evenly and makes them easier to eat. Nobody wants a mouthful of tough, unyielding sprout! Ensure to dry them well before roasting for optimal browning.

Can I add other vegetables to this Brussels sprouts casserole recipe?

Of course! This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like chopped carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. They will add extra layers of flavor and texture to the casserole. Consider sautéing some mushrooms or onions and mixing them into the filling for added umami. Just make sure you don’t overcrowd the baking dish! You want all the vegetables to roast properly and not steam. Get creative and use your favorite veggies.

What can I substitute for the creamy sauce in this Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe?

If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the creamy sauce with a cashew cream or a blended cauliflower sauce. To make cashew cream, soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes, then drain and blend them with some vegetable broth and lemon juice until smooth. For a cauliflower sauce, steam or boil cauliflower until tender, then blend it with vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder. Both options provide a creamy texture without the heavy cream!