Crispy Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Your New Favorite Easy Side Dish
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Parmesan transform a simple vegetable into the most delicious side dish imaginable. These often-misunderstood sprouts are baked to crispy perfection, boasting irresistible golden-brown parmesan cheese edges that will make even the most skeptical eaters ask for seconds.
Unlock the Deliciousness of Brussels Sprouts!
Brussels sprouts have a reputation that often precedes them, but when cooked correctly, they are truly one of the most flavorful and satisfying vegetables you can enjoy. Forget the bland, soggy versions you might have encountered in the past; this recipe focuses on bringing out their natural sweetness and creating an incredible texture.
We’re no strangers to creative ways to enjoy this cruciferous powerhouse. Some of our other favorite preparations include a rich brussels sprouts gratin, perfect for a cozy meal, and surprisingly addictive brussels sprouts chips for a healthier snack.
However, today’s recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts with parmesan stands out as a true gem. It’s an effortless yet elegant side dish that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight dinner rotation, but is equally impressive for special occasions and holiday feasts. Imagine these crispy, cheesy sprouts gracing your Thanksgiving or Christmas table – they’re guaranteed to be a showstopper!
The magic to truly delicious Brussels sprouts lies in a combination of factors: the right cooking method, the perfect texture, and a harmonious blend of flavors. Our method ensures a perfect balance of tenderness on the inside and glorious crispiness on the outside, all enhanced by the savory, salty goodness of Parmesan.
In my household, these delicious Brussels sprouts vanish almost as quickly as they emerge from the oven. It’s a rare feat when even the kids are reaching for more vegetables, but this recipe consistently achieves it. Get ready to convert any Brussels sprout skeptics!
Why This Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a Game Changer
This isn’t just another roasted vegetable recipe. There are specific elements that make these Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts truly exceptional:
- High Heat Roasting: The secret to their incredible crispiness is a blazing hot oven. High heat ensures that the sprouts caramelize beautifully on the outside while becoming tender within, avoiding any dreaded sogginess.
- The Perfect Cut: Halving the Brussels sprouts is crucial. It creates more surface area for that gorgeous browning and allows the Parmesan to adhere better, forming those desirable crispy edges.
- Parmesan Power: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds a rich, umami flavor but also creates an irresistible, golden-brown crust as it bakes. This cheesy “skirt” around the sprouts is truly the best part!
- Simple Seasoning: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper provides a foundational savory flavor that complements the sprouts without overpowering them. It’s a classic combination that always delivers.
- Kid-Friendly Appeal: Thanks to the crispy texture and cheesy flavor, these Brussels sprouts often win over even the pickiest eaters. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a nutritious vegetable in a highly palatable form.
You’ll find the complete recipe card with precise measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this post. But first, let’s explore the simple yet essential ingredients you’ll need to create this fantastic side dish.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Creating truly outstanding roasted Brussels sprouts with Parmesan doesn’t require a long list of exotic items. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of a few key ingredients:
- Fresh Brussels Sprouts: This is where it all begins! Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have soft spots. While this recipe is designed for fresh, we do have a separate recipe for roasted frozen Brussels sprouts if that’s all you have on hand.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the ultimate crispy edges and rich, salty flavor, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is non-negotiable. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting and crisping up as beautifully. Grab a wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano and grate it yourself – you’ll taste the difference!
- Garlic Powder: This provides a mellow, savory garlic flavor that disperses evenly throughout the sprouts. It’s easier than mincing fresh garlic and less prone to burning at high temperatures.
- Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor without the moisture or texture of fresh onion.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and adjust salt to your preference, especially since Parmesan also contributes salinity.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil helps coat the sprouts, promoting even browning and crispiness. It also acts as a binder for the seasonings and cheese.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Roast Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts every time. Precision in prep and temperature is key!
First, preheat your oven to a blazing 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). This high temperature is absolutely crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture and beautiful caramelization on the sprouts. Don’t skimp on the heat!
Step 1: Prepare Your Brussels Sprouts
The initial preparation of your fresh Brussels sprouts sets the stage for success. Begin by:
- Removing any shriveled, discolored, or loose outer leaves. These can become tough or bitter when roasted.
- Trim a small portion off the stem end of each sprout.
- Crucially, slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. This is not just for aesthetics; it’s essential for the recipe. Halving them creates a flat surface for optimal browning and ensures that the heat can penetrate evenly, leading to a perfectly crisp-tender interior. Whole Brussels sprouts, while still tasty, will not roast as efficiently or achieve the same all-around crispiness.
Step 2: Season and Coat
Once prepped, place the halved Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Now, it’s time to add the flavor powerhouses!
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a generous drizzle of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (or a large spoon) to thoroughly toss and stir all the ingredients together. Ensure every single sprout half is well-coated with oil, seasonings, and Parmesan. This even coating is vital for consistent flavor and maximum crispiness.
Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Once coated, spread the Brussels sprouts evenly in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure they roast rather than steam. Adequate space allows air to circulate, promoting maximum crispiness.
Roast them in your preheated 425-degree F oven for an initial 20 minutes. At this point, they should start to soften and develop some browning. Remove the pan from the oven and carefully stir the sprouts around. This helps to expose different sides to the heat, ensuring all edges get a chance to caramelize and crisp up. The Parmesan cheese that has fallen off will begin to form delicious, lacy crusts on the baking sheet.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to roast for an additional 10 – 15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are beautifully browned, tender-crisp, and those Parmesan edges are golden and irresistibly crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as they can go from perfectly golden to slightly burnt quickly!
The star of the show, in my humble opinion, is undoubtedly the parmesan cheese edges. As the cheese melts and caramelizes against the hot baking sheet, it forms a delicate, crispy crust that clings to the sprouts. This cheesy, savory, slightly nutty crisp is truly addictive and takes these Brussels sprouts from good to extraordinary!
This side dish is consistently a huge hit in my family and has earned its permanent spot on our Thanksgiving and holiday tables. The best part is how incredibly easy it is to prepare. With just a few minutes of hands-on prep, you can pop them in the oven and let them bake to perfection while you focus on other components of your meal.
Tips for the Crispiest Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Ever
To ensure your roasted Brussels sprouts reach their full crispy potential, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is arguably the most important rule for any roasted vegetable. When vegetables are packed too tightly, they steam instead of roast. Use a large baking sheet, or two if necessary, to ensure the sprouts are in a single layer with some space between them.
- Dry Sprouts are Happy Sprouts: After washing your Brussels sprouts, make sure they are thoroughly dry. Excess moisture will lead to steaming and prevent that beautiful crisp exterior. Pat them dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner.
- High Heat is Non-Negotiable: As mentioned, 425°F is the sweet spot. This high temperature helps to quickly brown the sprouts and caramelize their natural sugars.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Seriously, skip the pre-shredded stuff if you can. Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps up much better, forming those desirable cheesy crusts.
- Line Your Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat makes for easier cleanup and can help prevent the cheese from sticking excessively, though a little sticking is part of the charm!
- Cut Uniformly: Try to cut your Brussels sprouts into roughly equal halves so they cook at the same rate. Smaller sprouts can be left whole or halved, larger ones should definitely be halved or even quartered.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Sprouts
These Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire your meal planning:
- Holiday Feasts: They are a quintessential side for Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or a festive roast beef. The savory, cheesy notes complement rich holiday flavors beautifully.
- Weeknight Dinners: Elevate a simple roasted chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or a juicy pork chop. They add a touch of gourmet without extra effort.
- Steak or Lamb: The robust flavor of the sprouts stands up wonderfully to heartier meats like grilled steak or lamb chops.
- Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside a light lemon garlic pasta or a creamy alfredo for a balanced meal.
- Vegetarian Meals: They can even be the star of a vegetarian plate alongside quinoa, rice pilaf, or other roasted vegetables.
Storing Leftovers & Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence with this recipe!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they won’t be quite as crispy as when fresh, they’ll still be incredibly flavorful.
For the best possible texture when reheating, avoid the microwave. Instead, spread them out on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and re-crisped. An air fryer also works wonders for bringing back their crispiness in just a few minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts:
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe? While fresh are highly recommended for the best crispy texture, you *can* use frozen. However, they will release more moisture and may not get as crispy. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them very dry before roasting. You might also need to increase the roasting time slightly.
- How do I make my Brussels sprouts even crispier? The key is high heat, not overcrowding the pan, and ensuring they are very dry before tossing with oil and seasonings. You can also roast them for an extra 5-10 minutes if you prefer them exceptionally crispy, keeping an eye on the Parmesan to prevent burning.
- Can I prepare Brussels sprouts ahead of time? You can prep the sprouts (trim and halve) a day in advance and store them in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator. However, for the best crispiness, wait to toss them with the oil, seasonings, and Parmesan until just before roasting.
- What if my Brussels sprouts taste bitter? Bitterness can be a common complaint. Roasting at high temperatures helps to caramelize their natural sugars, reducing bitterness significantly. Choosing fresh, firm, and bright green sprouts can also help, as older sprouts tend to be more bitter. A touch of sweetness, like a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting, can also counteract any remaining bitterness.
- Can I add other seasonings or ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice after roasting brightens the flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a kick. You could also try adding crumbled bacon bits during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting.
I’ll bet if you’ve never loved this vegetable, this recipe will change your mind! The combination of crispiness, savory Parmesan, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts creates an irresistible side that defies any previous negative experiences.
This truly is the best all-purpose, easy recipe for Brussels sprouts. It’s foolproof, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it a staple in any kitchen. You simply can’t go wrong!
More Delicious Side Dishes to Try
Looking for more easy and delicious vegetable side dishes to complement your meals? Check out these other fantastic recipes:
- Cheesy Cauliflower: A creamy, comforting side dish that’s sure to please.
- Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots with a delightful glaze.
- Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower: A simple and healthy roasted classic.
- Honey Butter Skillet Corn: Sweet corn cooked to perfection in a skillet.
- Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms infused with rich garlic butter.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and satisfying side.
- Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan: If you love this recipe, you’ll adore our cheesy roasted broccoli too!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Parmesan
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Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs brussel sprouts
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 C).
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Remove any outer shriveled leaves from the brussel sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Place the halves in a large mixing bowl.
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Add the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil to the brussel sprouts. Toss thoroughly to combine, ensuring all sprouts are well-coated.
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Transfer the seasoned brussels sprouts to a large baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan.
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Roast the brussels sprouts at 425 degrees F for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, stir them around to redistribute, then return to the oven and roast for an additional 10 – 15 minutes, or until crispy and browned on the edges. The parmesan cheese will stick to some of them and form a delicious browned, cheesy crust. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 12g,
Protein: 6g,
Fat: 12g,
Saturated Fat: 3g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g,
Cholesterol: 7mg,
Sodium: 369mg,
Potassium: 465mg,
Fiber: 4g,
Sugar: 3g,
Vitamin A: 928IU,
Vitamin C: 96mg,
Calcium: 123mg,
Iron: 2mg
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