Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole
This delectable Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole strikes a perfect balance that pleases every palate, making it a must-have side for holiday gatherings or dinner parties. Originating from a cherished family recipe featured in a classic cooking magazine, this dish combines tender Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon and a rich creamy sauce, all topped with a cheesy breadcrumb crust. It's a fantastic way to showcase Brussels sprouts and convert even the staunchest skeptics into fans. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brussels sprouts
1.5 (lbs, trimmed and halved)
Bacon
8 (slices, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
Onion
1 (thinly sliced)
Heavy cream
2/3 (cup)
Salt
3/4 (teaspoon)
Dried thyme
1/2 (teaspoon)
Pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
Ground nutmeg
1/4 (teaspoon)
Plain breadcrumbs
1/2 (cup)
Grated Parmesan cheese
2 (tablespoons)
Butter or margarine
2 (tablespoons, diced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender. Drain and rinse them in cold water to cool. Once cooled, cut the sprouts in half and set aside.
3
In the same pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy, about 4 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain it on a paper towel. Carefully pour off excess fat from the pot, leaving just enough to sauté the vegetables.
4
Add the sliced onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5
Return the cooked Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon to the pot with the onions. Stir to combine evenly, then transfer the mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
6
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, salt, thyme, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture evenly over the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
7
In a small bowl, mix the plain breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of the casserole, then dot with the diced butter.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is bubbling.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Creamy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole.
What are the primary ingredients in this casserole?
The main ingredients include Brussels sprouts, bacon, onion, heavy cream, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long should I boil the Brussels sprouts?
Boil the Brussels sprouts in salted water for about 5 minutes or until they are tender.
How should the Brussels sprouts be prepared before cooking?
They should be trimmed and cut in half.
How much bacon is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 slices of bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
How long does it take to cook the bacon?
The bacon should be cooked over medium heat for about 4 minutes until browned and crispy.
What do I do with the bacon fat after cooking?
Carefully pour off the excess fat, leaving just enough in the pot to sauté the onion.
How long should the onion be sautéed?
Sauté the sliced onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
What size casserole dish is required?
A 1 1/2 quart casserole dish is needed for this recipe.
What ingredients make up the cream sauce?
The sauce is a mixture of heavy cream, salt, dried thyme, pepper, and ground nutmeg.
How much heavy cream is used?
The recipe requires 2/3 cup of heavy cream.
What is the topping for the casserole made of?
The topping consists of plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and diced butter.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for approximately 30 minutes.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
It is done when the top is lightly browned and the casserole is bubbling.
Is this dish suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is described as a must-have side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or holiday gatherings.
Can I use margarine instead of butter for the topping?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either butter or margarine.
What amount of Brussels sprouts is needed?
You will need 1.5 lbs of Brussels sprouts.
What kind of thyme is used?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How much Parmesan cheese is used in the topping?
Two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese are required.
Should the Brussels sprouts be cooled after boiling?
Yes, drain them and rinse in cold water to cool before cutting them in half.
What type of breadcrumbs are used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of plain breadcrumbs.
Is there any nutmeg in this dish?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg is added to the cream mixture.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include side dish, comfort food, holiday recipe, and vegetable dish.
Can this recipe convert Brussels sprouts skeptics?
Yes, it is described as a fantastic way to showcase the vegetable and win over fans.
Where did the inspiration for this recipe come from?
It originated from a cherished family recipe featured in a classic cooking magazine.
How should the butter be prepared for the topping?
The 2 tablespoons of butter should be diced before being dotted over the top.
Do I mix the cream into the sprouts before putting them in the dish?
No, transfer the sprout and bacon mixture to the dish first, then pour the cream mixture over them.
Is the onion added raw to the casserole?
No, the onion is sautéed in the pot until softened before being combined with the sprouts and bacon.