Yummy. Cheesy Brussel Sprouts Casserole. Everyone loves this side dish whether on weeknights or at your next holiday gathering.
It's a low carb and keto-friendly dish that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up something hearty and satisfying without too much fuss and plenty of bacon.
This recipe is LOW CARB, KETO-FRIENDLY and GLUTEN-FREE.
Inspiration for this Cheesy Brussel Sprouts Recipe
The inspiration for this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole came from a memorable evening at a friend's house. He was a bachelor at the time, aiming to create something that felt a bit classy yet simple.
When he served up this dish, it was a delightful surprise. The first bite was all it took for us to ask for the recipe. It was packed with deep flavors and a richness that complements the Brussels sprouts so well.
Anyhow, I was going through some old, handwritten recipes and found this one stashed away… so I wanted to share with you.
Are Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Low Carb or Keto?
Absolutely, Cheesy Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic choice a low carb or keto diet. This casserole, with its main ingredient being Brussels sprouts, is inherently low in carbohydrates.
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that fits perfectly into a low carb lifestyle, providing essential nutrients without the carb overload commonly found in starchy sides.
When you add in the other components of the dish – melted cheese, crispy bacon, and heavy cream – you're enhancing the flavor without significantly upping the carb count.
I like this side dish for its high-fat content and ability to keep me satisfied longer… plus, it just tastes delicious.
What are the Ingredients to Make Cheesy Brussels Sprouts?
1. Brussels Sprouts: The star of the dish, Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also low in carbs and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They bring a lovely, slightly nutty flavor to the casserole, making it both nutritious and keto-friendly.
2. Bacon: The addition of bacon introduces a smoky, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the Brussels sprouts. Its high-fat content is ideal for keto diets, and it adds a delightful texture contrast.
3. Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients. Keep in mind that store-bought shredded cheddar usually has anti-caking agents that are usually starchy… this can add hidden carbs!
4. Gruyere Cheese: Gruyere adds a rich, creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Like cheddar, it’s also high in fat and low in carbs, aligning well with keto principles.
5. Heavy Cream: This helps create a luxurious, thick sauce that binds all the components together. It’s high in fat and low in carbs, enhancing the keto-friendly nature of the dish.
6. Shallots: Shallots are used for their mild, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
7. Garlic: Garlic adds depth and aroma to the casserole.
Are Brussels Sprouts Keto?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are perfect for a keto diet. They are low in carbs and high in fiber, which makes them an excellent vegetable choice for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. Their carb content is offset by their fiber, resulting in a lower net carb count, essential for maintaining ketosis.
Is it Brussels Sprouts or Brussel Sprouts?
The correct term is "Brussels sprouts." This name comes from the city of Brussels, Belgium, where it's believed they were grown extensively in the 16th century. The 's' at the end of Brussels is often dropped in casual conversation, but the correct spelling includes it. I'm spelling it the way I am because people search for it this way.
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How to Make Cheesy Brussels Sprouts in Your Own Kitchen
To whip up a batch of Cheesy Brussels Sprouts in your kitchen, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Begin with the Brussels sprouts, by trimming and halving (or quartering) about a pound of them, then give them a quick sauté in a cast-iron skillet until they turn slightly tender and acquire a golden hue.
This is where things get even tastier – add in finely chopped shallots and minced garlic to the skillet, letting them mingle with the sprouts and release their aromatic flavors. Pour a cup of heavy cream over the blend, allowing it to simmer into a thick, creamy sauce that lovingly coats every sprout.
Now, sprinkle in a generous cup each of shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese, watching as they melt into the mix. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, and for an added kick, a dash of paprika or nutmeg can work wonders.
Once everything is beautifully combined in the skillet, top it off with more cheese and perhaps a crunchy layer of almond flour or crushed pork rinds for texture. Slide the skillet into the oven and bake until the top bubbles and browns, signaling that your Cheesy Brussels Sprouts are ready to delight your taste buds.
Make sure that you let this recipe rest before serving… the sauce thickens to a really nice consistency!
FOLLOW THIS VISUAL GUIDE TO BAKED CHEESY BRUSSEL SPROUTS
I've tried to capture the essential steps to making this delicious low-carb side dish and share them with you. If you have questions, please ask in the comments!
Tell Me About Brussel Sprouts Carbs
Brussels sprouts are relatively low in carbs, making them a great option for low-carb diets. A typical serving of about ½ cup of cooked Brussels sprouts contains about 5-6 grams of carbs. However, they are also high in fiber, with around 2 grams per serving, which can be subtracted from the total carb count to calculate the net carbs.
What Cheese Goes with Brussels Sprouts?
When pairing cheese with Brussels sprouts, you want something that melts well and complements their nutty flavor. Cheddar and Gruyere are excellent choices for their ability to melt into a smooth, creamy texture while providing a rich, deep flavor. Other cheeses like Parmesan or Fontina can also work well, offering a delightful blend of savory notes to the sprouts.
Storing, Freezing and Reheating Baked Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
Storing: After enjoying your freshly baked Cheesy Brussels Sprouts, any leftovers can be easily stored in the refrigerator. Simply let the casserole cool down to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last for 3-4 days in the fridge. I've experienced some fridge odors from storing beyond 3 days though... just to keep in mind.
Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life of your Cheesy Brussels Sprouts, freezing is a great option. Divide the casserole into portion-sized containers or wrap it securely with freezer-safe wrap or aluminum foil. When stored in the freezer, it can last for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date, so you keep track of how long they've been frozen.
Reheating: To reheat, the oven is recommended as it helps to maintain the dish's texture and flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the casserole (thawed if frozen) in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until it's heated through.
This Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Recipe Pairs with the Following Main Dishes
Golden Rotisserie Chicken: A classic favorite, Golden Rotisserie Chicken offers a succulent, flavorful experience that complements the rich taste of the cheesy Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Bistecca Fiorentina: Indulge in the luxurious Italian flavors of Bistecca Fiorentina, a perfectly grilled steak that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture and savory notes of the cheesy Brussels sprouts.
Grilled Pork Chops: These Grilled Pork Chops are juicy and tender, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy and cheesy goodness of the Brussels sprouts, making for an irresistibly hearty meal.
The Perfect Porterhouse: Elevate your dining experience with The Perfect Porterhouse, a steak that brings robust flavors and a rich, meaty texture that beautifully complements the cheesy, velvety Brussels sprouts.
Baked Pork Tenderloin: Enjoy the tender and flavorful Baked Pork Tenderloin, a dish that pairs exquisitely with the cheesy Brussels sprouts, creating a gourmet, low carb feast.
Crispy Oven Roasted Chicken: A comforting meal from every angle starts with some crispy, oven roasted chicken and gets rounded out with the creamy richness of the oven baked brussel sprouts.
Find Other Great Brussels Sprouts Recipes Right on This Blog!
Baked Brussels Sprouts Gratin: Dive into the creamy and comforting Baked Brussels Sprouts Gratin, a dish that combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with a rich, cheesy topping, perfect for those who love a gratifying, low carb side dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Savor the perfect blend of smoky and savory in the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, a recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts, complemented by the crispy, salty bacon for a truly irresistible combination.
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Hash: For a hearty and flavorful meal, try the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Hash, combining the robust flavors of Brussels sprouts with bacon in a hash form, ideal for a fulfilling breakfast or a comforting dinner.
Balsamic Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Experience the delightful tang of Balsamic Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts, where the balsamic vinegar and honey create a mouthwatering glaze, enhancing the sprouts' natural flavors for a sophisticated and tasty side. Please note: this recipe is not low carb.
Sauteed Brussels Sprouts Recipe: Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of the Sauteed Brussels Sprouts Recipe, a dish that highlights the sprouts' natural flavors, sautéed to perfection for a quick, easy, and delicious side that pairs well with any main course.
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Cheesy Brussel Sprouts
This Cheesy Brussel Sprouts Casserole is a delightful blend of sautéed Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, all smothered in a rich, melty mix of cheddar and Gruyere cheese. This recipe is a dream come true for those following a low carb or keto-friendly lifestyle or anyone who loves delicious food. Simple, satisfying, and irresistibly tasty, this side dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved or quartered
- 3-4 strips of thick-cut bacon, sliced into batons
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 shallots or 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ teaspoon of paprika or nutmeg for added flavor
For the Almond Breadcrumb Topping
- ¼ cup of Almond Breadcrumbs (or almond flour)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Brown the Almonds: In a small pan, melt the tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in the almond breadcrumbs or almond flour. Cook, stirring well, for a couple of minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside to cool.
- Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your cast iron skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the Brussels sprouts. Cook them on medium heat until they start to brown and soften (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add Shallots and Garlic: Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shallots are translucent. They do not need to be cooked through as this will go into the oven. If the mixture looks dry, add some olive oil.
- Deglaze with Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir to combine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. The cream will start to thicken slightly. Turn off the heat on the stovetop.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Add half of the cheddar and Gruyere cheese into the skillet, along with the crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese starts to melt and mix well with the Brussels sprouts. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Layer the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the cast iron skillet in the preheated oven. Cook for 7-8 minutes. Remove from the oven and add the almond breadcrumb topping. Continue to bake until golden brown (approximately 7-8 minutes more). If you would like, turn on the broiler to brown the cheese.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Reduced Cooking Time with Premade Bacon Bits: If you're using premade bacon bits, you can reduce the overall cooking time by about 10 minutes. Since you won't have bacon fat from cooking the strips, add three tablespoons of butter to the skillet for cooking the Brussels sprouts.
- Dry Pan Caution: Brussels sprouts absorb fat while cooking. Add a little olive oil if your pan starts to look dry during the sautéing process. Be cautious with the amount; adding too much can make the dish too oily once the cheese is melted.
- Pan Temperature Management: Cast iron retains heat very well. Turn off or lower the heat if you notice the Brussels sprouts browning too quickly. The residual heat in the pan will continue to cook them without the risk of burning.
- Even Cooking: Stir the Brussels sprouts occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning. This is especially important in a cast iron skillet with hot spots.
- Cheese Addition: Add the cheese gradually and stir consistently to ensure it melts evenly and incorporates into the cream, creating a smooth and consistent sauce.
- Final Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final baking stage. The top should be golden and bubbly, but if it starts to brown too much, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Patience is Key: The sauce may seem a little thin out of the oven. Wait for a few minutes for it to cool, and it will all come together!
- Alternate Flavors: This recipe loves fresh flavors to be added... think cayenne pepper and chives or spring onions. It helps to punch up the flavor of this already delicious dish.
- Making Ahead: I suggest that if you need to make this dish ahead you stop the cooking process after deglazing with the cream.
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