Introduction
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when cooked correctly, they can be absolutely delicious! Parmesan Brussel Sprouts are a game-changer, turning this humble vegetable into a crispy, cheesy, and savory side dish that will have everyone reaching for more. The crispy edges paired with the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese make these Brussels sprouts a standout addition to any meal.
Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or as a side at your next holiday gathering, these Parmesan Brussel Sprouts will steal the show. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and full of nutrients. Let’s jump right into how to prepare this irresistible dish!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Parmesan Brussel Sprouts:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts (about 5-6 cups), trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Trim and halve the Brussel sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any tough outer leaves. Cut them in half from top to bottom. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy edges.
- Season the Brussels sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to make sure the sprouts are well-seasoned.
Step 2: Roast the Brussel Sprouts
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Try to place them cut-side down for extra crispiness.
- Roast in the oven: Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges, with a tender interior.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: When the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the hot sprouts with the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the sprouts. The heat from the Brussels sprouts will help the cheese stick.
- Return to the oven: For an additional cheesy finish, you can return the sprouts to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the Parmesan starts to melt and become golden brown.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Garnish: Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and cheesy, transfer them to a serving dish. For an extra touch of color and freshness, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and drizzle with a little lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve immediately: These Parmesan Brussels sprouts are best served warm, right out of the oven. Enjoy them as a side dish with roasted meats, pasta, or as part of a vegetable platter!
Tips and Tricks
- For extra crispiness: Make sure to arrange the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet, as this will help them get those crispy edges. Also, try not to overcrowd the pan—spread them out in a single layer for the best results.
- Add a little heat: If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Parmesan substitution: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes. Both offer a similar nutty flavor, though Pecorino is a bit sharper.
- Make them ahead: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and season them up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to roast them, just pop them in the oven. If you have leftovers, they reheat well in the oven or a skillet.
Why Parmesan Brussel Sprouts?
These Parmesan Brussel Sprouts are the perfect way to elevate a simple vegetable into something absolutely irresistible. The crispy texture and the savory, salty flavor of Parmesan create a wonderful balance with the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can serve them alongside your favorite proteins, throw them on a salad, or even snack on them as a healthy, cheesy treat.
With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can turn Brussels sprouts into a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. The best part? They’re packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, so you can feel good about indulging in this healthy side dish.
Conclusion
Parmesan Brussel Sprouts are an easy, flavorful, and healthy side dish that everyone will love. With the perfect balance of crispy texture, savory Parmesan, and a touch of garlic and paprika, these Brussels sprouts will steal the show at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side for a special dinner or just need a quick and delicious vegetable dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying! And don’t forget to share your results—I’d love to hear how your Parmesan Brussels sprouts turn out.