Description
This comforting Sausage and Brussels Sprouts Casserole combines savory Italian sausage with tender Brussels sprouts in a creamy cheesy sauce, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a hearty family meal, this dish balances the flavors of garlic, onion, and cheese with a touch of spice from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the halved Brussels sprouts along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sprouts are slightly browned and tender.
- Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping the browned bits off the bottom. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly and enhance the flavor.
- Combine & Assemble: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top & Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. Optionally add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.
- Brussels sprouts should be trimmed and halved for even cooking and tenderness.
- Make sure to deglaze the pan well for extra depth of flavor.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley brighten the dish just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
