Description
Keto Brussel Sprouts Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked side dish that features tender Brussels sprouts combined with bacon, garlic, and a rich cheese sauce made from cream cheese, heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. This low-carb, savory casserole offers a perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy textures, making Brussels sprouts irresistible as a comforting holiday or weeknight meal accompaniment.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Cheese & Dairy
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp butter
Meat
- 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, then remove and crumble it. Set aside.
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, heat butter and olive oil together. Add the Brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook until they start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Onion: Add diced onion to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Add the cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Mix in Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper for flavor balance.
- Add Cheeses and Bacon: Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, then fold the crumbled bacon into the mixture.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the Brussels sprouts and sauce mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top for a golden crust after baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used but should be fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- To make the top extra crispy, add crushed pork rinds or chopped nuts before baking.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead and baked when ready.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat uncovered in the oven for the best texture.
- Omit bacon for a vegetarian version or replace with mushrooms or nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American