If you’ve been on the lookout for a cozy, hearty dish that brings together savory flavors and a touch of green goodness, this Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a comforting blend where tender Brussels sprouts meet perfectly browned Italian sausage, all wrapped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re craving something filling for weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this casserole strikes the perfect balance of rich, fresh, and satisfying. Trust me, this recipe has quickly become a personal favorite for bringing warmth and flavor to the table any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic of this Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe starts with simple, fresh, and carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering that fantastic combination of textures and flavors you’ll savor in every bite.
- Italian sausage (1 lb): Choose mild or spicy to suit your taste; removing casings helps it crumble beautifully for even cooking.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing, it adds a subtle fruity note and richness.
- Yellow onion (1 small, diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation that complements savory sausage perfectly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides that irresistible savory punch, just enough to enhance without overwhelming.
- Brussels sprouts (1 lb, trimmed and halved): The star vegetable that brings texture, slight bitterness, and vibrancy to the dish.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and elevates all the other flavors in the casserole.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a hint of warm spice for depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Introduces moisture and savory richness to keep everything juicy.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates the luscious, creamy base that binds the casserole into a cheesy dream.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Melts smoothly and adds gooey, mild creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that punches up the cheesy profile.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup, optional): Adds a delightful golden crunch on top, making each bite exciting.
- Butter (1 tablespoon, for topping): Helps toast the breadcrumbs to perfect crispiness and richness.
How to Make Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Sausage
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium casserole dish so your cheesy creation won’t stick later on. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage (making sure to crumble it as you cook), and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step is crucial because those browned bits will infuse the dish with deep, savory flavor. Once done, set the sausage aside but keep the delicious drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Brussels Sprouts
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and turns fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute, careful not to burn it—this will amplify the overall flavor. Next, add your halved Brussels sprouts, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re opting for a little spice. Sauté everything for 5 to 7 minutes until the sprouts turn tender and get a lovely light brown sear, which really brings out their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce and Combine
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream straight into the skillet, stirring everything together to form a silky sauce that will hold the casserole together. Return the browned sausage to the pan and mix all the ingredients well. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and ingredients get cozy. Then, remove the pan from heat and stir in both shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese; these cheeses not only add richness but also help bind the casserole as it bakes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your creamy Brussels sprouts and sausage mixture into the prepared casserole dish for the final step before oven magic. If you’re including the breadcrumb topping, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated, then sprinkle over the top to create a golden, crunchy crust. Bake your casserole for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s bubbling and the topping is gorgeous and golden brown. After it comes out of the oven, let it rest a few minutes—this helps everything set so it slices beautifully.
How to Serve Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this casserole just a bit more, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving. These simple additions add a pop of color and fresh, bright flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. A squeeze of lemon juice is also unexpectedly wonderful for a subtle zing.
Side Dishes
While the Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe is a meal in itself, pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad can round out your meal perfectly. For those seeking comfort food vibes, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby carrots make great companions, balancing the savory and cheesy notes with their own textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or remix the presentation, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also scoop it over fluffy cauliflower rice or stuffing for a more festive twist. Another fun idea is layering the casserole with thin slices of roasted potatoes for added heartiness and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe tastes fantastic the next day, especially after those flavors have had even more time to mingle. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days to enjoy peak freshness.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. After baking and cooling completely, cover the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole assembled in a freezer-safe dish for easy baking later on.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers or a frozen casserole, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge first for even cooking. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the topping crisp and the textures delightful.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and will work wonderfully in this casserole without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if the sausage is precooked.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
The casserole can be made gluten-free by simply omitting the breadcrumbs or substituting them with gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients naturally don’t contain gluten, making it an ideal dish for gluten-sensitive eaters.
What can I substitute for heavy cream to make it lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter to mimic creaminess, but the sauce might be less rich and thick. Alternatively, coconut cream can add a dairy-free twist, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or even some cooked butternut squash cubes would blend well with the sausage and Brussels sprouts, adding more variety and nutrition while keeping the dish hearty.
How spicy is this casserole if I include the crushed red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth and subtle heat; it won’t overwhelm unless you increase the quantity. You can always leave them out or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe—it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a bit of elegance to any occasion without fuss. Easy to make and generous on taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings alike. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try and see how this one-pan wonder can quickly become a beloved staple in your home kitchen.
Print
Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a comforting dinner. Combining savory Italian sausage with tender Brussels sprouts sautéed in a creamy blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, it’s topped with melty mozzarella, Parmesan, and a crispy breadcrumb crust for a satisfying texture contrast. Ideal for fall or any time you crave a cheesy, low-carb casserole that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Sausage and Veggies
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Brussels Sprouts: Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet along with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts begin to soften and develop a light golden brown color.
- Add Liquids and Combine: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the sausage and Brussels sprouts mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping: If using breadcrumbs, melt the butter and mix it into the breadcrumbs, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the dish to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
- For a lighter variation, substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage.
- To keep the dish low-carb, omit the breadcrumbs or replace them with crushed pork rinds.
- If avoiding gluten, ensure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or eliminate them altogether.
