Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. These little green gems are transformed into crispy, caramelized bites of goodness when roasted to perfection. The natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts comes alive in the oven, while the garlic and Parmesan cheese add a savory depth that makes each bite irresistible.

I first made these Brussels sprouts for a family dinner, and they disappeared almost as quickly as I put them on the table! The rich, garlicky flavor paired with the salty Parmesan was an instant hit. What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to make, yet it feels so indulgent. Plus, it’s a great way to turn Brussels sprouts—often a vegetable some might overlook—into a dish everyone loves.

Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty roast, a light chicken dish, or simply enjoying them on their own as a snack, these roasted Brussels sprouts offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of that savory punch that elevates any meal. If you’ve never tried Brussels sprouts this way, trust me, you’re in for a treat! They’re a wonderful addition to any dinner and will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Perfect for:

• Holiday dinners
• Family meals
• Weeknight dinners
• Parties and gatherings
• Veggie lovers

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Here’s why Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts will become your go-to side dish:

• Crispy and Caramelized: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, creating crispy, caramelized edges that add irresistible texture.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese makes each bite savory and delicious, with a perfect balance of earthy, cheesy goodness.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a quick and easy side dish to prepare.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes, adding extra spices or herbs for a unique twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g, Protein: 4g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Brussels Sprouts: These mini cabbages are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Roasting them helps bring out their natural sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that crispy golden texture when roasting.
• Garlic: Provides a savory, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the Brussels sprouts.
• Parmesan Cheese: This nutty, salty cheese adds an irresistible savory finish that complements the roasted sprouts perfectly.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down. This will help them get crispy and caramelized.
5. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Add the Finishing Touches:

6. Sprinkle with Parmesan: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.
7. Garnish with Parsley: If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals:

• With Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Serve alongside a golden roasted chicken or turkey for a flavorful, well-rounded meal.
• As a Standalone Snack: Enjoy them as a healthy snack, perfect for munching on during the day or as a light appetizer.
• With Grilled Meat: These roasted Brussels sprouts make a great accompaniment to grilled steaks, pork chops, or fish.
• Topped with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts for a tangy, sweet finish that complements the garlic and Parmesan.
• In a Salad: Add the roasted Brussels sprouts to a salad for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Additional Tips for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Here are some tips to make sure your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure to arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to sogginess.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a more aromatic flavor compared to pre-chopped or jarred garlic.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon: After roasting, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors and add a fresh contrast to the richness of the Parmesan.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season your Brussels sprouts generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like to ensure they are flavorful.
• Try with Different Cheeses: While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Here are 10 variations you can try for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add crispy turkey bacon bits for a smoky, salty touch.
• Lemon Garlic Brussels Sprouts: Add lemon zest and juice to the Brussels sprouts before roasting for a fresh citrusy flavor.
• Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before roasting for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Cheddar Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for a richer, gooey finish.
• Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or smoked paprika to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with a honey-balsamic glaze after roasting for a sweet-savory flavor combo.
• Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Coat the Brussels sprouts in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan before roasting for an extra crispy texture.
• Garlic Herb Brussels Sprouts: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mix for a fragrant, earthy flavor.
• Maple Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the sprouts before roasting for a caramelized, sweet finish.
• Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Pine Nuts: Add pine nuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the roasted Brussels sprouts.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them by spreading the cooked sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing them for a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, though they may lose some of their crispiness.

Special Equipment for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts easier:

• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet provides plenty of room for the Brussels sprouts to roast evenly.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts quickly and safely.
• Garlic Press: A garlic press helps you mince garlic quickly and evenly for this recipe.
• Tongs or Spatula: Use tongs or a spatula to toss the Brussels sprouts halfway through the roasting process for even cooking.
• Grater or Microplane: A fine grater or microplane is perfect for grating the Parmesan cheese finely.

FAQ Section for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, but if using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before roasting.
2. How can I make these Brussels sprouts less bitter?
   Roasting Brussels sprouts helps reduce their bitterness, but you can also remove any outer leaves that may be too bitter before cooking.
3. Can I make these Brussels sprouts in advance?
   While Brussels sprouts are best when freshly roasted, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to maintain some crispiness.
4. Can I use other cheese instead of Parmesan?
   Yes, other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even Gruyère can be used for a different flavor.
5. How can I add more flavor to these Brussels sprouts?
   Try adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano, or experiment with balsamic vinegar or a touch of honey for added sweetness.

Print

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, while the garlic and Parmesan create a savory, cheesy coating that makes every bite irresistible. The crispy edges add a satisfying texture, turning these sprouts into a dish that’s not only healthy but also delicious.

With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, this recipe is easy to customize to suit your tastes. You can add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. Whether you’re serving these sprouts at a holiday dinner, as a weeknight side, or just enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Feel free to leave a comment or share any variations you made to the recipe. Enjoy!