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Creamy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Top

Creamy Brussels Sprouts Casserole - featured image

This comforting casserole features roasted Brussels sprouts enveloped in a homemade creamy sauce and topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing holiday side dish that will convert even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (quarter if large)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim ends and halve Brussels sprouts (quarter if large). Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread sprouts on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and slightly crispy.
  4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  5. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute until it resembles wet sand.
  6. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  7. Stir in thyme, nutmeg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  8. Place roasted Brussels sprouts in a 2-quart casserole dish. Pour sauce over and gently stir to coat.
  9. In a mixing bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
  10. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over sauced sprouts. Add parsley if desired.
  11. Bake casserole for 15-20 minutes, until topping is golden and crispy.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Roasting the Brussels sprouts first is key for flavor and texture. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. If the topping browns too quickly, tent with foil. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, swap flour, breadcrumbs, and dairy as needed. Can be made ahead and baked fresh before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts casserole, creamy casserole, holiday side dish, Parmesan topping, Thanksgiving, Christmas, vegetarian, comfort food