Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that will wow your family and friends, these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are just the ticket! They strike the perfect balance between tender and crispy, making them a delightful addition to any meal. With their nutty Parmesan coating and sweet caramelized edges, they’re bound to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe will shine through.

I love how easy these Brussels sprouts are to prepare, and they pack such a flavorful punch. Plus, they make for an excellent conversation starter when people ask how you got them so deliciously crispy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts end up loving these tasty bites!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast them early in the day for a hassle-free meal later; they reheat beautifully.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy topping that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these with almost any main course for an impressive meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Add some spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little heat!
• Try different cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for aged Gouda or pecorino for a new flavor twist.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate other veggies: Mix in cauliflower or carrots for added color and nutrients.

How to Make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Brussels sprouts will roast perfectly, giving them that golden-brown exterior we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the tough stem ends from the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Then, slice each sprout in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly and allows more surface area for that glorious crispiness!

Step 3: Season with Olive Oil and Spices

In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil until they are well-coated. Then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again so every sprout gets its share of flavor. This step is key because it sets the stage for a delicious roast!

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Breadcrumbs

In another small bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the seasoned Brussels sprouts, tossing gently while pressing down to help it adhere. This layer adds irresistible crunchiness!

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated Brussels sprouts cut-side down on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This positioning maximizes contact with the pan, ensuring optimal crispiness during roasting.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Slide your baking sheet into the oven! Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them in those last few minutes; you want them perfectly browned without burning.

Step 7: Serve Hot with Fresh Parsley

Once out of the oven, transfer those beautiful sprouts to a serving dish. Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over them for color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot—trust me; everyone will want seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

To elevate your Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection, here are some tried-and-true tips that will guarantee a delicious outcome every time!

• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts will have a firmer texture and better flavor compared to older ones, leading to a more satisfying crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet allows for better air circulation, ensuring they roast evenly and develop that coveted crispiness.
• Press down the coating: After adding the Parmesan and panko mixture, gently press down on the sprouts to help the coating adhere better. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunchy exterior.
• Adjust cooking time based on size: Smaller Brussels sprouts will cook faster than larger ones. Keep an eye on them as they roast to prevent over-browning and ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning, for an extra burst of flavor that complements the Parmesan beautifully.

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving these delightful roasted Brussels sprouts can be as creative as you want! Their vibrant color and enticing aroma make them a fantastic centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Grated lemon zest: For an aromatic touch, sprinkle some lemon zest over the finished dish just before serving to enhance its visual appeal and flavor profile.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a delightful kick that pairs well with the savory cheese.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the crispy texture of the roasted veggies perfectly.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots seasoned with thyme or rosemary bring out natural sweetness and provide color contrast on your plate while maintaining a healthy balance.
• Baked Salmon: A simple baked salmon fillet seasoned with herbs makes for a delightful pairing that rounds out your meal with protein while keeping it light.

These ideas will not only make your Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts shine but will also create an inviting meal that everyone at your table will love! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are fantastic for meal prep! They hold up well in the fridge, making them a great side dish for busy weeknights or a tasty addition to your lunchbox.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze leftovers, lay the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp.
• For a quick option, microwave them on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, but note that they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones!

How do I make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts even crispier?

To enhance the crispiness, ensure that each Brussels sprout is evenly coated with the Parmesan-panko mixture. Also, try not to overcrowd the baking sheet; space them out for optimal air circulation during roasting.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan for this recipe?

Certainly! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that still delivers a cheesy taste.

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

These roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian platter. They’re also delightful alongside quinoa or mixed grains!

Can I prepare Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can trim and coat the Brussels sprouts earlier in the day. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them.

Are there any tips for selecting fresh Brussels sprouts?

Look for firm, bright green sprouts that feel heavy for their size. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or blemishes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying them as leftovers, they’re sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!