Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that will impress everyone at the table, look no further! These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts have a special place in my heart. I love how they turn from humble little sprouts into golden, crunchy bites of deliciousness. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these sprouts are not only easy to make but also pack tons of flavor. Honestly, once you try them, you’ll want to serve them at every meal!

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, this recipe is sure to brighten your plate and your day. The balance of tenderness inside and crispiness outside makes every bite a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this scrumptious side dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will be reaching for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the sprouts earlier in the day and roast them just before serving for a stress-free dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of nutty Parmesan and crispy panko creates an irresistible crunch that brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts shine:

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and toppings.

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Cheesy Twist: Substitute half of the Parmesan with your favorite cheese blend for added flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary mixed into the coating for an aromatic touch.
• Veggie Medley: Try adding other vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli to create a colorful roasted vegetable platter.

How to Make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love. While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim each Brussels sprout by cutting off their tough stem ends and removing any yellow or damaged leaves. This step ensures that you’re working with only the best parts of the sprouts.

Step 3: Slice Them Up

Next, slice each sprout in half lengthwise from top to bottom. This helps them roast evenly and allows more surface area for that delicious crispy coating!

Step 4: Season with Olive Oil and Spices

In a large mixing bowl, toss those halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil until they are thoroughly coated. Then sprinkle on garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again to make sure every sprout gets some love from those seasonings.

Step 5: Create the Crunchy Coating

In a separate small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. This mixture will give your Brussels sprouts that glorious crispy crust we’re after. Sprinkle it over the seasoned sprouts and toss gently so it adheres nicely.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Lay out your coated Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This position helps maximize crispiness during roasting.

Step 7: Roast Away!

Pop your baking sheet into that preheated oven! Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and perfectly crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them during those last few minutes; if needed, give them a gentle toss to ensure even browning.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Once they’re beautifully caramelized, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness! Serve immediately while hot and get ready to enjoy these delightful Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Creating the perfect crispy texture and flavor is all about the details, and I’ve got some great tips to help you achieve Brussels sprout perfection!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts will have a firmer texture and a sweeter flavor. Look for bright green, tightly packed sprouts with no yellow leaves.

• Dry Thoroughly After Washing: Excess moisture can prevent your sprouts from getting that golden crunch. Make sure to pat them dry after washing to ensure they roast perfectly.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spacing is key! If the Brussels sprouts are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in a less crispy finish. Give them room to breathe!

• Use High Heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps caramelize the natural sugars in the sprouts while achieving a nice crisp on the outside.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to mix in other herbs or spices to customize your flavor profile. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for any table setting. Here are some ideas for presenting this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a little balsamic glaze over the top can introduce a sweet-tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory cheese.
• Crushed Nuts: Add a handful of crushed almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of the Brussels sprouts while adding freshness.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide comforting creaminess that balances out the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts.
• Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty protein option that pairs well with the savory flavors of your side dish.
• Roasted Carrots: Honey-glazed roasted carrots add sweetness and color to your plate, making dinner visually appealing and delicious.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with an irresistible dish that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not just a delightful dish to serve fresh; they also make for an excellent meal prep option! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For best results, store them without additional sauce or toppings until ready to serve.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure that the Brussels sprouts have cooled down completely.
• Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the leftover Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.

FAQs

Got questions about these delicious Brussels sprouts? Here are some common ones!

Can I use other cheese instead of Parmesan for the Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, you can try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative. Both will give you a tasty result!

How do I make sure my Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn out crispy?

For perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure they are well-coated with oil and the cheese-breadcrumb mixture. Also, roasting them cut-side down helps achieve that desirable crunch.

What can I serve with Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or any hearty grain dish. They’re also an excellent side for holiday dinners!

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or any plant-based cheese alternative. The panko breadcrumbs typically do not contain animal products but check labels just in case.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They’re not only simple to prepare but also bring so much flavor and nutrition to your table. Enjoy every crunchy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations you try out! Happy cooking!