Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe

If you’re anything like me and have found yourself a bit unsure about Brussels sprouts, this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe might just flip the script for you. I remember the first time I made it, I was a bit skeptical, but the creamy cheese, the crispy bacon, and that slight tang from the lemon zest all come together to make these little veggies irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that sneaks onto your dinner table and suddenly everyone is reaching for seconds without a hint of hesitation.

This casserole is perfect for those cozy weeknights or even holiday dinners when you want a side dish that feels special but is far from complicated. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts if you’re trying to introduce them to picky eaters or friends who’ve written them off. Trust me—you’ll want to keep this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and harmonize beautifully to create layers of flavor—from the earthy sprouts to the rich cheeses and smoky bacon. When shopping, choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts and good-quality bacon, because those details really shine through.

• Brussels sprouts: Look for firm, vibrant green sprouts with tight leaves for the best texture and flavor.
• Lemon zest: Fresh lemon zest adds a bright freshness that lifts the casserole’s richness.
• Thick-cut bacon: Gives a satisfying smoky crunch; avoid pre-cooked bacon to control crispiness.
• Heavy cream: Creates that luscious base that holds everything together.
• Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it adds depth and a nice salty kick.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, giving you that comforting gooey texture.
• Toasted pine nuts: Adds an unexpected nutty crunch that surprises every time.
• Ground black pepper: Freshly cracked, it peppers the dish with just the right amount of warmth.
• Salt: Essential for balancing flavors—taste as you go!

Variations

While I love the classic version of the Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe, I’ve found that it’s a pretty flexible dish—you can tweak it depending on your mood or what’s in your fridge. I encourage you to make it your own and find your favorite variation.

• Swap the bacon for turkey bacon: I tried this when I was cutting back on pork, and while it’s a bit lighter, it still gives that satisfying smoky note.
• Add a sprinkle of nutmeg: For a cozy, warm twist that pairs surprisingly well with the creamy sauce.
• Use a mix of cheeses: Try adding sharp cheddar or Gruyère if you want to mix up the flavors.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add toasted walnuts or extra pine nuts for crunch and richness.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a subtle kick if you like heat.

How to Make Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming and cutting the Brussels sprouts in half to ensure even cooking. Sauté them in a hot pan until they’re just tender and starting to brown—this step brings out their natural sweetness and adds a bit of caramelized flavor. Try not to overcrowd the pan to get that nice sear; giving them space helps prevent steaming, which can make them mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy

Next, in the same pan, cook the diced bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. The rendered bacon fat will add an amazing boost of flavor if you toss the Brussels sprouts back in afterward. Drain the bacon on a paper towel, but don’t toss the fat just yet—keeping it in the pan adds wonderful depth to your sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the pan with the reserved bacon fat and gently warm it. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses slowly, stirring constantly to create a smooth, luscious sauce. Add the lemon zest, black pepper, and salt to taste. This sauce is the heart of the casserole, so take your time to get it silky without letting it scald.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Fold the sautéed Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon into your cheese sauce, then transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for that delightful crunch. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Keep an eye on it so the nuts don’t burn—sometimes I cover the edges if they brown too fast.

How to Serve Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this casserole with a little extra fresh lemon zest and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Cracked black pepper on top just before serving also amps up the flavor and gives it a fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple roasted chicken or a juicy grilled steak. For a vegetarian meal, try it alongside mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. It’s creamy and rich enough to be a centerpiece for a veggie-forward feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I sometimes serve this dish in individual ramekins. It’s so fun watching everyone’s delight as they get their own gooey, cheesy personal casserole. Plus, it looks fancy but takes no extra effort! Another time, I layered it in a glass casserole dish so you can see all the beautiful layers through the sides—instant wow factor at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying a serving or two, I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, the casserole actually tastes even better as the flavors meld overnight, but be sure to reheat gently so the cheese doesn’t separate.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a couple of times, especially when I made a double batch for holidays. To freeze, cover tightly with foil and then place in a freezer-safe container. It reheats well, but I recommend thawing overnight in the fridge to maintain creaminess and texture.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat is in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil so it doesn’t dry out, for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If you’re in a rush, reheating in the microwave works too; just do it in short bursts and stir in between to keep the cheese from getting rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Bacon Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it turned my notions about Brussels sprouts upside down. It’s comforting, cheesy, and smoky all at once—a total crowd-pleaser. I can’t recommend it enough if you want a side dish that feels indulgent but is straightforward to make. Give it a try and watch how even the most skeptical guests come back for more!

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