Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

There’s something about Brussels sprouts that makes them feel like a veggie you should definitely love but may not always crave. Well, that is until you’ve tried them roasted with a crisp, cheesy Parmesan crust. Let me tell you—this is a game-changer. These Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are so crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor that they’ll convert even the most skeptical sprout eater into a fan.

I first came across this recipe when I was looking for a way to make Brussels sprouts more exciting for my kids. They had been a bit hesitant about this leafy green veggie for years, but I wasn’t about to give up on making them love it. And guess what? The crispy, golden crust did the trick! Since then, these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts have become a regular part of our family dinners. Whether paired with roasted chicken, a juicy steak, or just enjoyed as a savory snack, they always steal the show.

This recipe is so easy to put together that even a beginner cook can make it with confidence. With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll be on your way to crispy, golden Brussels sprouts in no time. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts recipe is everything you want in a veggie dish. Here’s why:

• Crispy, golden perfection: The Parmesan crust adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender Brussels sprouts inside. It’s the kind of texture that makes each bite irresistible.
• Super simple ingredients: You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients for this dish. Just fresh Brussels sprouts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a few basic seasonings. Easy peasy!
• Perfect for any meal: Whether you’re looking for a side dish to impress guests or a healthy snack to munch on while watching your favorite show, these Brussels sprouts fit the bill. They’re light, crispy, and packed with flavor.
• Customizable: You can tweak this recipe in so many ways—whether it’s adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet touch, this dish is adaptable to your personal taste.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 (perfect for a side dish or a veggie-heavy snack)

Nutrition Facts (Per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g

(Please note that nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Ingredients

You don’t need much to make these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts, but the few ingredients you do need come together in such a magical way! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp garlic powder (for that lovely garlicky punch)
• 1/2 tsp salt (season to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Brussels sprouts: The star of the show! These little cabbages are full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a super healthy side dish. Plus, they get beautifully crispy when roasted.
• Parmesan cheese: It’s rich, salty, and adds that irresistible umami flavor that makes these Brussels sprouts so addictive. You can’t skip this ingredient!
• Breadcrumbs: These give the Parmesan crust that extra crispy crunch. Panko breadcrumbs, in particular, have a lighter texture and help create an even crispier topping.
• Garlic powder: For that savory depth of flavor. It’s a pantry staple that makes these Brussels sprouts taste like they’ve been cooked by a pro.
• Olive oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts roast beautifully in the oven and ensures that Parmesan crust crisps up just right.
• Salt and pepper: To bring out all the flavors. Simple but essential.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts is super simple and almost foolproof. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to crispy, golden goodness in no time!

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection without burning the Parmesan crust.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Slice off the woody ends and remove any outer leaves that look a bit tough or damaged. Then, slice each Brussels sprout in half from top to bottom, ensuring they cook evenly and get that perfect crispy edge.
3. Toss with olive oil: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure they’re evenly coated so they roast beautifully and crisp up on all sides.
4. Season the sprouts: Sprinkle the Brussels sprouts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give them another toss to make sure all of the seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Prepare the Parmesan topping: In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. If you’re feeling extra, add a little more Parmesan for an extra cheesy crust. The breadcrumbs will help the Parmesan form a crisp layer on top of the sprouts.
6. Coat the sprouts: Lay the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps them crisp up without sticking. Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture generously over the Brussels sprouts, pressing lightly so that it sticks.
7. Roast in the oven: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the Parmesan crust is golden and crispy. You can flip them halfway through for even crispiness, but it’s optional.
8. Garnish and serve: Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with a little fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Serve them hot and crispy!

How to Serve

These Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are versatile enough to serve with pretty much any main dish! Here are a few serving ideas:

• As a side dish: Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. They make the perfect veggie side, adding crunch and flavor to any meal.
• Over pasta: Toss the roasted sprouts with your favorite pasta, a drizzle of olive oil, and some extra Parmesan cheese for a vegetarian-friendly main course.
• As a snack: These Brussels sprouts are so good, they can even be enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack or appetizer. You’ll find yourself reaching for one after another!
• On top of salads: Add them as a crunchy topping to a fresh salad for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Additional Tips

To make sure your Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts turn out perfect every time, here are a few handy tips:

1. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give your Brussels sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roasting, and you won’t get that crispy crust.
2. Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan can be a little drier and less flavorful than fresh Parmesan. Grate it yourself for the best results!
3. Adjust the baking time: Ovens can vary, so check your Brussels sprouts at the 20-minute mark. If you want extra crispy edges, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end.
4. Try different herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
5. For extra crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for a lighter, crispier texture.

Recipe Variations

Want to make these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts your own? Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Add a spicy kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the Brussels sprouts before roasting. It adds a nice contrast to the savory Parmesan crust.
• Balsamic drizzle: After roasting, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts for a sweet and tangy finish that pairs perfectly with the rich Parmesan.
• Make them vegan: If you’re looking for a vegan version, you can swap the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your meal, here are some great side dishes and drinks that complement these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts:

• Side dishes: Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy flavor of the sprouts.
• For kids: These Brussels sprouts are a great way to sneak in some veggies. Pair them with a favorite kid-friendly dish like mac and cheese or chicken tenders.

FAQ: Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts give the best results in terms of texture and flavor, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe. Otherwise, the coating might not stick as well.

2. How do I store leftover Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts?

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will—they’re so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get the crust crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a couple of minutes for that extra crunch!

3. Can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the Brussels sprouts ahead of time! Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, toss them with olive oil and seasonings, and prepare the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Store the sprouts and the Parmesan mixture separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply coat the sprouts with the Parmesan mixture and roast them according to the recipe.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Parmesan is the star of this recipe, but you can experiment with other cheeses. Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even sharp cheddar would make great alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind, though, that Parmesan offers a unique, nutty, and salty flavor that’s hard to replicate.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko. They will give you that crispy texture while keeping the recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check that the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free, as some brands may contain traces of gluten.

6. How can I make these Brussels sprouts even crispier?

For extra crispy Brussels sprouts, try flipping them halfway through roasting. If you want an extra crunch, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn!

7. What’s the best way to cut Brussels sprouts?

Start by trimming off the tough ends of each Brussels sprout, then slice them in half from top to bottom. This helps them cook evenly and allows more surface area for the crispy crust to form. If you’re working with large Brussels sprouts, you can even quarter them for a more bite-sized piece.

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Conclusion

These Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at dinner, tossing them in a salad, or enjoying them as a snack, this recipe is sure to make you fall in love with Brussels sprouts all over again. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and adaptable to suit your taste buds.

Plus, the best part? They’re made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a vegetable side dish that will wow your family or guests, look no further than these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts. Trust me, they’ll be a hit at any dinner table!

Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!