Name: Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup); 4 teaspoons minced garlic; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded gruyère cheese; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 ½ cups French’s crispy fried onions; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The aroma of baking Brussels sprouts fills the kitchen, mingling with melted cheese wafting through the air. The tops are golden brown and speckled with crispy fried onions, giving a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, creamy vegetables underneath. There’s just something so cozy about a bubbling Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole—it feels like a warm hug during the chilly autumn evenings. Personally, this dish brings back memories of family gatherings when my grandma would whip up her famous casseroles, always drawing everyone together at the table. Now, it’s your turn to create these fond memories! Whether for Thanksgiving dinner or a casual family weeknight meal, this savory casserole might just become your new favorite comfort food, so let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole

With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole that will wow your family or friends. This recipe combines nutty Brussels sprouts with creamy cheese sauce and crispy onions for a dish that’s both satisfying and rich in flavor. Get ready to bake something that’s not only beautiful but also bursting with taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This casserole comes together in just about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 35 minutes of baking—perfect for busy days!
Irresistible Flavor: It’s creamy, cheesy, and a touch spicy with the red pepper flakes, a combination that dances on your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: This dish looks gorgeous when served; the golden crust and vibrant green sprouts create a feast for the eyes.
Flexible Serving: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in; it works beautifully for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily tweak it for gluten-free or vegetarian diets—just switch out the flour or add more veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Brussels Sprouts: You’ll need 2 pounds of fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved. They’re the star of this dish, providing a delightful, nutty flavor. Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used in a pinch, just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup (½ stick) adds richness to the casserole. It helps create the silky sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Yellow Onion: A medium, finely diced onion (about 1 cup) enhances flavor with its sweetness and aroma. Shallots also work well if you want a subtler onion flavor.
Garlic: 4 teaspoons of minced garlic infuse the dish with an irresistible aroma. Fresh garlic is best, but you could use garlic powder as an alternative—just keep it to about 1 teaspoon.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon adds a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess. Feel free to adjust according to your spice preference!
All-Purpose Flour: Used (¼ cup) to thicken the sauce. For gluten-free versions, corn starch or gluten-free flour can work well.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup of chicken broth adds depth; however, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup creates a luscious, creamy texture that makes every bite unforgettable. If you’re looking for lighter options, you could substitute half-and-half or whole milk.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together; adjust to taste.
Gruyère Cheese: 1 cup of shredded gruyère lends a rich, nutty flavor that melts beautifully. You can substitute with a sharp cheddar or a Swiss cheese for a different taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, 1 cup adds a savory kick and that perfect crispy topping. Pre-grated parmesan works too, but fresh is always better.
French’s Crispy Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups adds the perfect crunch. If you have the time, homemade crispy onions can elevate this dish even further!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the finished casserole.

How to Make Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grab a large casserole dish—about 3-quart—and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set that aside as you prepare the Brussels sprouts; washing, trimming, and halving two pounds is essential for even cooking and the best flavor.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, toss in the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add in your minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another minute or two until the garlic is beautifully aromatic. This is where the magic begins!

Make the Sauce: Sprinkle in the ¼ cup of flour and stir well to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Next, add 1 cup of heavy cream, and season with salt and black pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes—the goal is a smooth, creamy consistency.

Add Cheese: Once your sauce is ready, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded gruyère and parmesan cheese until melted and well-combined. This cheesy sauce is the heart of your **Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole** and should be rich and delicious!

Combine Sprouts and Sauce: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the cheese sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. It’s a wonderful mixture of creamy goodness that’s just waiting to go into the oven. Pour this carefully into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out so the sprouts mix harmoniously with the sauce.

Top with Crunch: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top, covering the casserole lavishly. This topping will create an amazing crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers beneath. You can add as much as your heart desires!

Bake Until Golden: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges bubble and the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the entire kitchen is filled with mouthwatering scents and the top looks irresistible.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the layers to set a bit. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color, and get ready for a showstopper at the table!

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole, let it cool completely at room temperature before sealing it in an airtight container; it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Do note that while the flavors will still be delightful, the texture might alter slightly after freezing; refreshing it with a sprinkle of cheese could help it regain some of its charm.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid soggy Brussels sprouts, make sure they are dried thoroughly after washing before adding them to the casserole.
Using cold butter will create a smoother sauce when incorporated slowly—just don’t rush the melting process.
Incorporate additional veggies like mushrooms or spinach for a twist, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor.
If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook.
This casserole can easily be made a day ahead—just assemble it without baking, cover it, and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!

The Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole is a dish that offers creamy indulgence with a touch of crispiness that everyone loves. It’s perfect for not just special gatherings but for those cozy weeknight dinners when you crave something comforting. Don’t hesitate to experiment; changing up the cheese or adding other vegetables can lead to delightful variations of this classic dish. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite with friends and family!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh Brussels sprouts offer the best flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water to keep the casserole from being watery.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This Cheesy Brussels Sprout Casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or turkey, and is a fantastic side dish for any holiday meal. It also goes well with a simple green salad for a lighter dinner option.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth. Also, ensure you’re using vegetarian-friendly cheeses if you’re avoiding animal products entirely.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance! Just assemble the dish without baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.