Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe with Crispy Topping

We call this The Best Brussels Sprouts Casserole for good reason. Creamy, cheesy, and studded with bacon, this casserole transforms shaved Brussels sprouts into a comforting side dish anyone will love.

If you enjoy Brussels sprouts, try other recipes on this site such as Sheet Pan Loaded Brussels Sprouts covered in cheese and bacon, or Crock Pot Crispy Brussels Sprouts for a simple dinner or Thanksgiving side.

Full disclosure: I wasn’t always a fan of Brussels sprouts. Their reputation can be mixed—some people love them, others don’t. But when you prepare them thinly sliced and pair them with rich ingredients like cream, cheese, and bacon, they become irresistible.

What Makes This The Best Brussels Sprouts Recipe?

There are a few techniques that make this casserole stand out. First, the sprouts are shaved or thinly sliced. That creates a tender texture and larger surface area so the sprouts soak up the creamy sauce and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. No more biting into a tough little ball—these slices blend beautifully with the other ingredients.

Second, bacon adds savory depth and a salty crunch that complements the mild, slightly sweet flavor of the sprouts. Third, a simple crispy panko topping finishes the dish with contrast: a soft, cheesy interior and a golden, crunchy top.

Finally, this casserole is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s a great weeknight side dish and also works perfectly for holidays—simple to scale and easy to make ahead.

How Do You Make This Casserole?

The method is straightforward: blanch the Brussels sprouts until just tender, slice them thin, then toss with cream, shredded white cheddar, and chopped bacon. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs over the top, and bake until bubbling and golden.

The results taste like a dish that took hours to prepare, but it really comes together quickly. It’s a great recipe to impress guests without spending the whole day in the kitchen.

Can You Make This Brussels Sprouts Casserole Ahead Of Time?

Yes. This casserole is ideal for make-ahead cooking. Prepare the full recipe up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, remove the casserole from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking so it comes closer to room temperature, then bake following the instructions. That little rest helps it heat evenly so it finishes bubbling and browning properly.

If you need to transport the casserole, keep it covered and cold until you reach your destination, then bake when you arrive. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for a couple of days and can be reheated in the oven until warmed through to help preserve the crunchy topping.

Tips and Variations

• Shaving sprouts: Use a sharp knife, a mandoline, or a food processor fitted with a slicing blade to get thin, even slices. Thinner slices will melt into the sauce more readily.
• Cheese options: White cheddar gives a nice tang, but Gruyère or mozzarella can be used for a different flavor and melt profile.
• Bacon alternatives: Pancetta or smoked ham work as substitutes for bacon. For a meatless version, omit the bacon and add a little extra salt and a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
• Panko topping: Toss panko with a tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling to encourage even browning and extra crunch.
• Serving: This casserole pairs well with roasted or grilled proteins and fits right in on a holiday table alongside mashed potatoes and turkey.

Need More Easy Brussels Sprouts Recipes?

Explore other sprouts recipes like Whiskey Glazed Baby Carrots and Brussels, Asian Chicken and Brussels Stir Fry, or a cold Thai Peanut Brussels Sprout Coleslaw for a bright, crunchy side. For a simple everyday preparation, see tips on how to roast Brussels sprouts for a reliable, healthy vegetable side.

Looking For More Side Dish Recipes?

• Grandma’s Stuffed Artichokes

• Spaghetti Squash with Bacon and Gruyere

• Spicy Mushroom Rice

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