When I first tried Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, I was skeptical. How could these tiny cabbages, often the subject of many jokes about disliked vegetables, be transformed into something I’d crave? The secret lies in the crunchy garlic parmesan crust that turns these humble veggies into an addictive dish.
Baking them in the oven with a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs and a generous layer of parmesan creates a crispy texture that is truly mouthwatering.
Brussels sprouts have always been a side dish staple, but with this Parmesan Brussels Sprouts recipe, they steal the show. I love how the cheese forms a golden, crispy layer that complements the tender sprouts underneath.
Whether for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight meal, this dish adds a touch of indulgence that everyone appreciates. Trust me, even those who usually pass on Brussels sprouts will find it hard to resist.
Even better, the preparation is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort.
It’s one of those dishes where the oven does most of the work, freeing me up to focus on other parts of the meal. This recipe not only enhances the flavor of Brussels sprouts but also elevates them into something special that I can proudly serve to my family and friends.
Why You Will Love Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Parmesan Brussels sprouts are a fantastic dish that I love for several reasons.
First, they are incredibly mouthwatering with their crispy, golden crust. The combination of melted Parmesan and Brussels sprouts creates a delicious balance of flavors that is hard to resist.
The ease of preparation is another reason I adore this dish. With only about ten minutes of simple prep, I can have a tasty side ready to pair with almost any meal.
All it requires is some olive oil, sea salt, and Parmesan. Toss the sprouts, and they’re ready for baking.
When I bake them in a hot oven, it gives the Brussels sprouts a perfect crunchy texture. I find that adding a bit of lemon zest enhances the flavor, adding a slight tang that makes this dish even more enticing.
These Parmesan Brussels sprouts aren’t just for holidays. They are versatile enough for any day of the week. Whether paired with a turkey dinner or just a weeknight meal, they never fail to impress.
For me, it’s the crispy bits that truly stand out. That satisfying crunch, combined with the rich taste of Parmesan, makes these sprouts something special.
How To Make Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Creating Parmesan Brussels Sprouts involves gathering the right ingredients, using proper kitchen tools, and following a few simple steps. These sprouts feature a delightful mix of flavors with grated parmesan cheese, garlic, and a touch of black pepper for an extra kick.
Ingredients
To make this dish, I begin by gathering fresh Brussels sprouts, about a pound for a full recipe.
I use olive oil to coat them, ensuring a nice, crisp texture. A few cloves of fresh garlic, minced finely, add aroma and depth.
For seasoning, I rely on a pinch of salt and some freshly cracked black pepper.
The star of the dish is parmesan cheese. I prefer freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor. Approximately half a cup should be sufficient. Sometimes, I also add a little lemon zest for a refreshing zing after baking the sprouts.
Instruments
I always make sure I have a large baking sheet ready, which is crucial for even cooking. A good-quality knife helps me trim and halve the Brussels sprouts efficiently.
A mixing bowl and a spatula are essential for tossing the sprouts with oil and seasonings.
An oven or a high-quality air fryer will roast the Brussels sprouts to crisp perfection. For measuring, having measuring cups and spoons ensures the right balance of olive oil, cheese, and seasonings.
Step By Step Instruction
First, I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), prepping my baking sheet with a light coat of olive oil or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and helps the parmesan adhere.
While the oven heats, I trim the ends from the Brussels sprouts and halve them.
In my mixing bowl, I toss the sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Once they’re coated, I spread them on the baking sheet evenly.
I sprinkle grated parmesan cheese generously over the top, ensuring each sprout gets some of that cheesy goodness.
The sprouts roast for about 16 to 18 minutes until tender and golden brown. I let them cool slightly before serving, as the parmesan crisps up further.
Finally, I gently separate and plate them, maybe with a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredient Substitute
When making Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, I sometimes experiment with ingredient substitutes to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
For olive oil, you can swap it with unsalted butter or avocado oil for a richer flavor. If you prefer a vegan option, try replacing butter with a high-quality vegan butter.
Instead of Parmesan cheese, you might consider using sharp cheddar or mozzarella. They will not get as crispy but still bring a good taste. A vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast mixed with finely chopped cashews can make a great dairy-free alternative.
To add spice, if you don’t have garlic powder on hand, fresh garlic works well. Onion powder adds an extra layer of flavor when garlic isn’t enough. Adding some paprika can give a slight, smoky taste that complements the sprouts nicely.
For seasonings, kosher salt and ground black pepper are essential for taste. Feel free to adjust them according to your preference. Some people enjoy adding a little bit of mayonnaise to the mix to create a creamy texture and flavor.
These substitutes allow flexibility in the recipe and accommodate different diets while keeping the dish delicious.
What To Serve With Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
When I serve Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, I think about what main dishes complement their flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with a juicy roasted chicken. The tender meat and crispy skin match well with the crispy roasted Brussels sprouts‘ crunchy texture and cheesy taste.
Grilled or pan-seared salmon is another excellent choice. It brings a touch of freshness and richness that balances the savory side dish. The combination is both healthy and delicious, making it a favorite in my home.
For a heartier meal, I might serve them alongside a balsamic-glazed pork tenderloin. The sweet and tangy glaze contrasts nicely with the savory sprouts, creating a delightful mix of flavors.
In a pinch, I find these sprouts are a versatile meal planner asset. They work well with beef dishes like a tender steak or a comforting meatloaf.
Even simple proteins like grilled chicken breasts or turkey burgers can benefit from this flavorful accompaniment. It’s a side that adds personality to any meal.
For vegetarians, I enjoy pairing them with quinoa pilaf or baked sweet potatoes. These offer satisfying textures and complement the bold taste of Parmesan Brussels Sprouts.
This side dish is a go-to for any meal, bringing warmth and flavor to the table.
How To Store Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
When I store Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, I focus on keeping them fresh and tasty. Here’s how I do it.
After cooking, I let the sprouts cool to room temperature. This prevents moisture buildup in storage, which can make them soggy.
I love using an airtight container for storage. It keeps flavors locked in and odors out.
If I plan to eat the sprouts in the next few days, I pop them in the fridge. They typically stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If I need them to last longer, I turn to my freezer.
For freezing, I place the Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe, airtight container or bag. I prefer using something like a reusable silicone bag. I remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When it’s time to enjoy them again, I reheat the sprouts in the oven or air fryer. This helps them get crispy again! Being careful not to overcook them is important, so I keep a close eye on them while reheating.
With these steps, my Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are always ready and delicious for my meals. It’s simple, and they’re just as yummy the second time around.
Is Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Healthy
When I think of Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, I see a dish that’s both tasty and nutritious. These little green vegetables are full of vitamins and fiber.
Brussels sprouts are known for their high vitamin C and vitamin K content. These nutrients help keep our immune system and bones strong. They also contain fiber, which is great for digestion.
Adding Parmesan cheese gives a boost of flavor and provides some protein and calcium. Though cheese brings in fats and calories, using it carefully and in moderation keeps the dish healthier.
Here’s a simple list of benefits:
- Fiber for digestion
- Vitamin C for immunity
- Vitamin K for bone health
- Calcium and protein from cheese
A healthy balance involves using a moderate amount of olive oil and cheese. This way, I can enjoy the tasty crispiness without too much fat. Roasting instead of frying also keeps the calorie count lower.
Overall, by choosing the right ingredients and balancing portions, Parmesan Brussels Sprouts can be a healthy addition to my meals. They offer nutrients while satisfying my taste buds with their savory flavors.
Nutrition Fact
I’ve put together some key nutrition facts for Parmesan Brussels Sprouts:
- Calories: Approximately 39 calories per serving from olive oil (0.33 tbsp)
- Calories: Around 36 calories from Parmesan cheese (0.08 cup)
- Calories: About 34 calories from Brussels sprouts (3/4 cup)
Dietary Fiber: These sprouts are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
Serving Size: Usually, a standard serving size is about 3/4 cup.
Fat Content: A serving typically contains fat primarily from the olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
Protein: Parmesan cheese provides a good source of protein.
Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven or air fryer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs optional for extra crunch
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional, for added freshness
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Prepare the Sprouts:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- Toss with Seasonings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add Parmesan and Breadcrumbs:
- Spread the sprouts onto the baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Roast for 16–18 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and the Parmesan is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with lemon zest (if desired), and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~120
- Total Fat: ~7g
- Saturated Fat: ~2.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Protein: ~6g
- Sodium: ~200mg
