Irresistible Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory, making them a standout side dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your holiday table, this easy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. The roasted Brussels sprouts are perfectly seasoned with garlic and olive oil, then topped with a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust. This dish is simple to make, full of flavor, and a great way to transform a vegetable that is often overlooked into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

These Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts stand out for many reasons:

• Crispy Texture: The roasted Brussels sprouts offer a satisfying crunch, making them irresistible to even the pickiest eaters.
• Cheesy Goodness: The Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously crunchy, golden crust that enhances the natural flavor of the sprouts.
• Quick & Easy: With minimal ingredients and only a few simple steps, these sprouts are ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: Thanks to their crispy texture and cheesy flavor, even kids will love eating their veggies.
• Versatile: This side dish pairs well with everything from roasted meats to grilled fish, making it perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are essential for achieving that nutty, slightly sweet flavor when roasted.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that crispy finish.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts and helps with the roasting process.
• Garlic Powder: Provides savory depth without burning during roasting.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient! Freshly grated Parmesan creates the perfect crunchy, cheesy topping.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even roasting.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse 1 pound of Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and slice each sprout in half for even cooking and a more roasted texture.
3. Season the Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Make sure all sprouts are evenly coated.
4. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned Brussels sprouts. Gently toss to coat every piece with the cheesy goodness.
5. Roast the Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, cut side down. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and the cheese has turned golden and crispy.
6. Optional Twist: For a fresh touch, drizzle a squeeze of lemon juice over the sprouts before serving. This adds a nice zesty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese.

Tips & Tricks

• Fresh Brussels Sprouts: For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh Brussels sprouts. Frozen sprouts may turn soggy when roasted.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming, which prevents them from getting crispy.
• Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the cheese as it roasts. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover the sprouts lightly with foil to prevent burning.
• Storage: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are versatile and pair well with many main dishes:

• Roasted Chicken: The savory flavor of roasted chicken complements the cheesy Brussels sprouts perfectly.
• Grilled Salmon: The light, flaky texture of grilled salmon balances the richness of the roasted sprouts.
• Quinoa Salad: For a lighter, healthier meal, serve the sprouts with a fresh quinoa salad to add crunch and fiber.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover cheese or juices from the Brussels sprouts.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for an extra touch of heat.
• Nutty Addition: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the Parmesan cheese before roasting.
• Zesty Lemon: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds brightness and a pop of flavor.

Storing and Freezing Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

• Fridge: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezer: To freeze, spread the roasted Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a light quinoa salad, this recipe offers versatility and mouthwatering flavor. With their crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and easy preparation, these Brussels sprouts will quickly become a household favorite. The best part? You can prep them ahead of time and still achieve the same perfect crunch when it’s time to serve. So next time you’re looking for a simple yet impressive side, reach for these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts. They’re sure to impress everyone at the table!

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