Brussel sprout casserole features savory roasted sprouts, bubbly, creamy cheese sauce, and salty, crispy bacon. What’s not to love? I make mine in the air fryer for the ultimate caramelization and an easy side dish, from weeknight dinners to the holiday table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy And Cheesy. The air fryer creates deliciously browned edges while the cheese gets perfectly melty
- Loaded With Bacon. Crispy bacon adds smoky, savory flavor that makes Brussels sprouts extra irresistible!
- Easy To Make. The air fryer keeps preparation simple with less fuss than a traditional casserole
- Great For Brussels Sprout Skeptics. Bacon, cheese, and crispy edges make these vegetables much more tempting
- Comfort Food Favorite. Creamy, cheesy, savory flavors turn Brussels sprouts into a hearty side dish
- Perfect For Holidays. A great addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other special-occasion meals
- Great For Weeknight Dinners. It’s easy enough for an everyday meal but special enough for guests
- Easy To Customize. Switch up the cheese or add your favorite seasonings to make it your own!
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Ingredients List
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (quarter if really large)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
- ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 Tbsp butter, melted (only if using breadcrumbs)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Instead of the shallot, you can use a leek or sweet onion instead. Alternatively, substitute ½ tsp onion powder
- The panko can be omitted if preferred, or swapped for French fried onions instead (you don’t need to add butter with the onions)
- All seasonings are adjustable to taste. Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat if you like!
- Gruyere can be swapped for Swiss cheese if preferred, or asiago is another good choice
- The Dijon is optional, but I like the little added tang you get from it, so I do recommend it unless you dislike mustard
- For a creamier dish, you can add some cream cheese (1-2 ounces) instead, or in addition to the heavy cream
Equipment Notes
You need an oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer to make this recipe. I have a Dual Zone air fryer with two compartments, so I split the casserole into two smaller oval casserole dishes.
However, if you have a single basket unit, you can just use one regular round or square casserole dish that fits. If it’s oven-safe, it’s air fryer safe!
Step By Step Instructions
- Toss the trimmed Brussels with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread them in an even layer in your air fryer’s basket
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until they just start to brown
- Remove the sprouts, and stir in the bacon, heavy cream or half and half, Dijon (if using), shallot, and half the shredded cheese, until well combined. Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish(es) that fit into your air fryer, then place into the air fryer
- Cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Top with the remaining shredded cheese (and if using panko, toss the panko with melted butter to coat, then add it on top of the shredded cheese)
- Return to the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese (and panko if using) is melted and browned to your liking. Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Brussels sprouts casserole is rich, creamy, and savory, so it pairs especially well with roasted meats, classic holiday sides, and fresh dishes that add a little contrast. It’s hearty enough to be the star of the side-dish spread while still fitting right in with a traditional dinner!
Meat & Seafood
- Roast Turkey: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving or any cozy holiday meal. Any of my Air Fryer Turkey Recipes would be great choices!
- Glazed Ham: The salty-sweet flavor of ham works beautifully with the savory Brussels sprouts. Try my air fryer hot honey glazed Small Ham!
- Roast Chicken: Simple and comforting without competing with the creamy casserole
- Pork Chops: A hearty option that complements the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts
- Roast Beef: Rich and savory for a more substantial Sunday dinner
Classic Comfort Sides
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes and Brussels sprouts make a classic comfort-food combination!
- Sweet Potato Casserole: The natural sweetness balances the savory, cheesy casserole
- Stuffing: A natural choice for a Thanksgiving-style plate with plenty of cozy flavors
- Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce! If you want a Thanksgiving-themed side, then my adorable Turkey Dinner Rolls fit the bill!
Fresh Sides
- Cranberry Sauce: Bright, tart cranberry cuts through the richness of the casserole. Try my easy Microwave Cranberry Sauce!
- Apple Slaw: Crisp apples and a tangy dressing add refreshing contrast
- Green Salad: A simple salad keeps the meal from feeling too heavy
- Roasted Apples: Their sweetness pairs nicely with the earthy Brussels sprouts
Drinks
- Dry White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole
- Hard Cider: The apple flavor is especially nice for a fall or Thanksgiving meal, or try my Apple Cider Sangria for the best of both worlds!
- Light Lager: A crisp beer helps balance the richness without overwhelming the food
- Sparkling Apple Cider: A festive nonalcoholic option with plenty of fall flavor
Recipe FAQs
What’s A Unique Twist On Brussels Sprout Casserole?
Try adding crispy bacon, caramelized onions, toasted nuts, stuffing, or a little sharp cheese for extra flavor and texture. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a sweet and tangy finish!
What Seasoning Is Best On Brussels Sprouts?
Garlic, black pepper, salt, and Parmesan are classic choices that complement Brussels sprouts beautifully. For more flavor, try adding smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
What Can I Do With A Bunch Of Brussels Sprouts?
There are plenty of options, including roasting, air frying, sautéing, shredding them into slaw, or adding them to soups and salads. Brussels sprouts casserole is another delicious way to use a large batch, especially for a holiday meal.
Tips For the Best Brussels Sprouts Casserole
- For a creamier casserole, you can add a little extra cream as desired. If it’s looking too dry when you go to add the cheese and panko to the top, you can drizzle more in then too
- I do not preheat my air fryer, and times are based on my results with my Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Other air fryers can vary slightly, and different pan sizes, so adjust in small increments if needed for your particular unit
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Let the casserole cool slightly before transferring to the refrigerator. Use within 3-4 days for best quality
- Store Covered: Keep leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap in the fridge
- Freeze If Needed: Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container (or in portions) for up to 2-3 months. However, the creamy sauce may change slightly in texture after thawing
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F until heated through, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp the top
- Air Fryer: For smaller portions, reheat at 350°F until hot and bubbly, watching closely so the top doesn’t brown too quickly (cover loosely with foil if needed)
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in short 30-second intervals, stirring gently when possible, until warmed through (but the sprouts and topping will lose crispiness)
- Add A Splash Of Liquid: If the casserole looks dry, add a small splash of milk or cream before reheating to help loosen the sauce
- Refresh The Topping: Add a little fresh Parmesan, crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or fried onions before reheating if you want to bring back some crunch!
- Don’t Overheat: Reheat just until hot to help prevent the creamy sauce from separating or becoming greasy
Final Thoughts
This creamy, savory air fryer Brussels sprout casserole is loaded with bacon, cheese, and seasonings for a delicious yet easy option that turns brussel sprout haters into lovers. I think they make a great Thanksgiving side dish, but are simple enough even for a weeknight dinner!
The casserole cooks up perfectly in the air fryer, with crispy spouts and a golden brown topping, but it can also be made in the oven if preferred (I just like keeping my oven free for larger dishes). No matter how you make it, it’s sure to be love at first bite!
Katie’s tip
For more great ways to prepare this classic vegetable, check out all of my Air Fryer Brussel Sprout Recipes for inspiration for any occasion!
Air Fryer Brussel Sprout Casserole (With Bacon)
Servings: 4
Brussels sprout casserole is creamy and delicious, loaded with crispy air fryer roasted sprouts, savory bacon, and melted cheese for a side dish easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for a holiday.
Equipment
- Spatula (or spoon)
- Casserole dish (or similar oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer)
- Nonstick spray
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 small shallot (finely diced)
- 1 tso Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
- ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese (divided)
- ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (divided)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 Tbsp melted butter (only if using breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Toss the trimmed Brussels with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread them in an even layer in your air fryer basket1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, 1 Tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until they just start to brown
- Remove the sprouts, and combine with the bacon, heavy cream or half and half, Dijon, shallot, and half the shredded cheese, mixing well. Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish(es) that fit into your air fryer, then place into the air fryer4 slices bacon, 1 small shallot, 1 tso Dijon mustard, ½ cup heavy cream or half and half, ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese, ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- Cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Top with the remaining shredded cheese (if using panko, toss the panko with melted butter to coat, then add it on top of the shredded cheese)½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese, ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 Tbsp melted butter, ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- Return to the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese (and panko if using) is melted and browned to your liking. Enjoy!
Notes
- Instead of the shallot, substitute leek, sweet onion, or ½ tsp onion powder
- The panko can be omitted if preferred, or swapped for French fried onions instead (you don’t need to add butter with the onions)
- All seasonings are adjustable to taste. Add cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want some heat
- Gruyere can be swapped for Swiss cheese or asiago
- The Dijon is technically optional, but adds a nice tang, so I recommend it unless you dislike mustard
- For a creamier dish, you can add some cream cheese (1-2 ounces) instead of, or in addition to, the heavy cream
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any swaps or additions, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Serving: 197g | Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 629mg | Potassium: 563mg | Fiber: 4.7g | Sugar: 3.9g | Vitamin A: 915.8IU | Vitamin C: 97mg | Calcium: 309mg | Iron: 1.9mg
