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This cheesy Brussels sprout casserole brings together tender sprouts with a creamy garlicky sauce and an irresistible blanket of melted cheese. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or a big holiday gathering, this comforting side dish wins over even lifelong Brussels sprout skeptics. I have made this recipe for just about every family get-together and it has become one of our most asked-for casseroles.
My pickiest eaters fell in love with Brussels sprouts after trying this casserole and now they actually look forward to seeing it on the table for every Thanksgiving. It has turned more than a few skeptics into fans.
Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels sprouts: give the casserole its signature texture and flavor Fresh is best for tenderness Make sure to pick sprouts that are bright green and firm
- Heavy cream: provides that luxurious creamy sauce Use real heavy cream for the richest results but half and half can work in a pinch
- Fresh garlic: brings a deep savory note Chop or mince it yourself for the boldest flavor If using garlic powder just a small amount is needed
- Parmesan cheese: offers a salty sharp punch Use a wedge of real parmesan and grate it just before adding for optimal melt and taste
- Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and creates that dreamy cheesy layer Shred your own from a block for the gooeyest casserole but pre-shredded cheese can also be handy
- You can swap in provolone, cheddar, Swiss, Gruyere, or even smoked gouda: for different flavors For the best flavor blend two or three cheeses together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Brussels sprouts:
- Trim off the woody bottoms and slice each sprout in half Lay them cut side down for more browning If any sprouts are oversized quarter them so they cook evenly You can rinse and dry the sprouts ahead of time for quicker assembly
- Roast the Brussels sprouts:
- Toss the cut sprouts with a little olive oil salt and black pepper Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet Roast in a hot oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen minutes This step brings out their sweetness and softens the centers Without roasting your casserole may end up with firm or bitter sprouts
- Mix the casserole base:
- In a large mixing bowl add the pre-roasted Brussels sprouts heavy cream minced garlic half the shredded cheese a bit of salt and pepper Stir well so each sprout gets coated with creamy sauce and cheese
- Assemble in the baking dish:
- Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish or ovenproof skillet Top with the remaining cheese for a beautiful golden crust Spread everything in an even layer to help the casserole bake consistently
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven for about twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top has golden brown patches If the top browns too quickly tent with foil halfway through Let the casserole rest ten minutes before scooping so the sauce thickens
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Every year I look forward to the smell of the casserole bubbling away in the oven and I love sneaking a bite of the cheesy crispy topping My favorite part is adding extra parmesan on top before serving for the saltiest crust
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The flavors deepen over time and often taste even better the next day To reheat scoop individual servings and microwave gently or cover the whole dish and warm in a low oven
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap in half and half for heavy cream if you want to lighten things up For a nutty flavor add a handful of Gruyere or smoked gouda in place of some of the mozzarella For extra richness stir in crispy bacon or finely chopped sautéed mushrooms
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is always a crowd pleasing side with roast chicken turkey or ham For a vegetarian meal enjoy it alongside a simple herb rice or quinoa salad Serve straight from the cast iron skillet for a cozy rustic feel
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Cultural Context
Although Brussels sprouts have a reputation as a divisive vegetable this dish transforms them into a comfort food favorite The creamy cheese filled preparation is inspired by classic American holiday casseroles but tastes right at home on any dinner table
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in advance, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Rest at room temperature before baking for best results.
- → What cheeses work best in this casserole?
Mozzarella and parmesan offer a classic combination, but cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or smoked gouda are delicious options too.
- → Can I add a crispy topping?
Absolutely! Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter or oil and sprinkle over the casserole before baking for a golden, crunchy finish.
- → How can I include more flavors or textures?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or cooked bacon for extra depth and variety in the casserole.
- → What best serves alongside this dish?
This cheesy casserole pairs well with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or simple weeknight meals like meatloaf or pork loin.