Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for that weeknight dinner hero that’s both hearty and wholesome, Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole is about to become your go-to recipe. With a cozy mix of spicy Italian sausage, tender Brussels sprouts, and two kinds of gooey, golden cheese, this casserole embodies comfort food at its best. Every bite is bursting with savory flavors and creamy textures, perfect for family meals or when you need something a little special with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and super easy to make ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients come together to elevate this dish into something truly memorable. Every component serves a purpose, whether it’s adding depth, bringing in creaminess, or delivering that irresistible cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Italian sausage: Opt for mild or spicy, depending on your preference — it’s the backbone of the casserole’s flavor.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes in the skillet.
- Garlic: For irresistible aromatic notes that tie the whole dish together.
- Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved for maximum surface area; they roast up tender and slightly sweet.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and making every flavor pop.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and an extra layer of savory flavor to the veggie mix.
- Heavy cream: Creates that ultra-creamy texture that everyone craves in a casserole.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into oozy, cheesy goodness on top.
- Parmesan cheese: Gives a wonderful, nutty sharpness and golden color when baked.
- Dried thyme: Adds subtle earthy notes that complement the sausage and veggies perfectly.
How to Make Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it sizzles. Keep an eye out for that deep caramelization — that’s pure flavor! Once the sausage is fully cooked and browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Keep the flavor party going in the same skillet. Add a splash of olive oil, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until the onion softens and turns translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about a minute more. This is where your kitchen really starts to smell incredible.
Step 3: Add Brussels Sprouts and Seasonings
Now, pile in those halved Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like), and thyme. Let everything cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are a little golden around the edges. That caramelization will bring out their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. This will soften the Brussels sprouts and allow all those flavors to meld together beautifully. The broth also ensures the final casserole stays moist and luscious rather than dry.
Step 5: Creamy Mix and Transfer
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then stir in the heavy cream. Mix everything well so every bite gets a bit of sausage, veggie, and creamy sauce. Remove from heat, and transfer this glorious mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish — you’re almost at the finish line!
Step 6: Cheese Topping and Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until you see a bubbly, golden crust of cheese. Let the Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets up perfectly.
How to Serve Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Garnishes
This casserole is already a showstopper, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few grinds of black pepper just before serving makes it look extra inviting. If you love a little zing, a squeeze of lemon over each portion can truly brighten up the flavors.
Side Dishes
The Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole is hearty enough to shine on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or even some crusty gluten-free bread to mop up every bit of that cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get a little fancy! Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for dinner parties, or spoon it over a bed of creamy polenta for an ultra-comforting twist. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan and broil for a minute or two for an extra crispy top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors blend beautifully overnight, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day! Try not to leave it uncovered, as this can dry out the edges.
Freezing
If you’d like to stash portions away for busy nights, this casserole is freezer-friendly! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or transferring to a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze before baking and just add the cheese topping right before going into the oven. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole (or portioned servings) in a 350°F oven, covered, until heated through — usually 15–20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for single servings, but the oven keeps the cheese melty and delicious. A quick broil at the end revives that golden top.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage lends the most flavor, feel free to swap for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative if you want to lighten things up. Just choose a sausage with seasonings you love.
Is this casserole spicy?
It’s totally up to you! Using spicy Italian sausage and red pepper flakes will add a noticeable kick, but you can stick to mild sausage and skip the flakes for a family-friendly version.
Are there any dairy-free options?
For a dairy-free twist, use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk in place of the cream and swap in vegan cheese shreds. The textures will be slightly different, but it will still be rich and satisfying.
Can I prep Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the entire casserole up to the point before baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if you’re starting from cold.
What other veggies can I add?
Mushrooms, leeks, or chopped kale all work beautifully alongside the Brussels sprouts. Simply sauté them with the onion before adding the rest of the ingredients — it’s an easy way to customize the casserole with what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a crave-worthy dinner that’s bubbling with flavor, definitely give Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole a try. It’s that magical combo of simplicity and comfort, perfect for busy weeknights or gathering loved ones at the table. I guarantee it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation!
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Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole. A hearty combination of Italian sausage, Brussels sprouts, and cheese, baked to perfection. This casserole is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Italian Sausage:
1 pound, casing removed
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Yellow Onion:
1 small, diced
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced
Brussels Sprouts:
1 pound, trimmed and halved
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
1/4 teaspoon
Chicken Broth:
1/2 cup
Heavy Cream:
1/2 cup
Mozzarella Cheese:
1 cup, shredded
Parmesan Cheese:
1/4 cup, grated
Dried Thyme:
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Set aside.
- Sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic. Stir in Brussels sprouts, seasonings, and thyme.
- Add chicken broth, simmer until sprouts soften. Mix in sausage and cream.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheeses. Bake until golden.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a lower-carb version, skip the onion or replace the cream with unsweetened almond milk and add extra cheese.
- You can use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
- Tastes great reheated the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg