If you are on the lookout for a dish that brings together comforting creaminess, smoky depth, and the fresh vibrancy of green veggies, the Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This casserole is a heavenly blend of tender Brussels sprouts, perfectly cooked shallots and garlic, savory smoked turkey bits, and a luscious mixture of sharp white cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Baked until bubbling and golden, this dish steals the show whether it’s a weeknight dinner side or part of a festive spread. It’s an effortless way to enjoy Brussels sprouts like never before, with flavors that dance on your palate and textures that satisfy every craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this casserole plays a starring role, combining simple pantry staples with fresh, wholesome elements. Together, they create a dish that’s balanced in flavor, pleasantly creamy in texture, and visually inviting with pops of green and golden cheese.
- Smoked turkey bits (4 oz): Adds wonderful smoky flavor and a hearty bite to the casserole.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Used to sauté shallots and garlic, delivering rich, silky undertones essential for flavor depth.
- Shallots (2, minced): Provide a sweet and mild onion flavor that complements the smokiness perfectly.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Give an aromatic punch that wakes up the entire dish.
- Brussels sprouts (2 lb, cleaned and halved): The star vegetable, offering a tender yet slightly crisp texture when cooked just right.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle heat that elevates the savory components without overpowering.
- Mustard powder (1/2 tsp): Gives a gentle tang that brightens the creamy base.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and bring out the natural flavors.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that envelops each sprout in a comforting hug.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Brings a tangy, robust flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey.
- Gruyere cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Adds a nutty, creamy layer that melts into a golden crust on top.
How to Make Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for baking the casserole until warm and golden. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add your minced shallots and garlic and sauté just for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick step gently releases their sweetness and ensures that your casserole base is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Brussels Sprouts
Next, add your cleaned and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Cook them for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so they soften evenly and soak up the buttery, garlicky mixture. The sprouts should be tender but still hold some bite—this texture is key to the dish’s appeal.
Step 3: Season and Stir in Cream
Sprinkle the cayenne pepper, mustard powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper over the sprouts. These spices add subtle complexity and warmth that complement the squashy creaminess. Then pour in the heavy cream and stir well to coat every sprout in smooth richness.
Step 4: Assemble and Top the Casserole
Transfer everything from the skillet into a baking dish. Evenly scatter the smoked turkey bits on top along with the shredded sharp white cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. This layering is what transforms the dish into a bubbly, golden casserole loaded with flavor bursts in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheeses are fully melted and lightly golden on top. As it bakes, the cheese melds with the creamy sprouts and smoky turkey, creating an irresistible golden crust you won’t be able to resist digging into.
How to Serve Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
To add freshness and a little crunch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the hot casserole right before serving. A light squeeze of lemon juice also brightens the rich flavors brilliantly, making each bite pop with freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with roast chicken or pork tenderloin. For a cozy meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to counterbalance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, portion out the casserole into individual ramekins. This makes for a beautiful presentation when hosting guests and ensures everyone gets their share of that cheesy, savory goodness. Plus, topping with crunchy buttered breadcrumbs adds a delightful texture contrast that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner reboots during the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture and melty cheese topping.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. This will ensure the cheese topping regains its golden crust and the filling remains creamy and warm throughout.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully thawed and well-drained before cooking to avoid any excess water that can make the casserole soggy.
Is this casserole gluten free?
Yes, this Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe is naturally gluten free as none of the ingredients contain gluten.
Can I substitute the smoked turkey with another protein?
Certainly! Cooked bacon, ham, or even shredded chicken can be delicious alternatives that bring their own unique flavors to the casserole.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the smoked turkey and add sautéed mushrooms or more caramelized onions for that rich umami flavor, ensuring the casserole remains hearty and satisfying.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have Gruyere?
A good melting cheese like Swiss or mozzarella can work in place of Gruyere, though Gruyere’s nutty richness does give this casserole its signature taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting about a bubbly, cheesy casserole filled with tender Brussels sprouts and smoky turkey. The Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both homey and a little special. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—once you’ve experienced how easy and delicious it is, it will surely become one of your go-to recipes for every season.
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Easy Brussels Sprouts Casserole with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and creamy Brussels sprouts casserole made with tender sprouts, aromatic shallots, savory smoked turkey, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, baked until melted and golden.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz smoked turkey bits, cooked and lightly crisped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 shallots, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lb Brussels sprouts, cleaned and halved
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the butter with flavors.
- Cook Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender but still retain some bite.
- Season and Combine: Season the Brussels sprouts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder. Stir in the heavy cream thoroughly to create a creamy base.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the Brussels sprouts and cream mixture to a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crispy smoked turkey bits on top, followed by the shredded white cheddar and Gruyere cheeses.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm as a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake just before serving to save time.
- Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions can be added for extra depth and flavor.
- For additional crunch, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used if they are fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
