Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful side dish that balances tender interiors with a golden, crunchy exterior. Perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts—these sprouts showcase the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan, elevated by their caramelized edges that bring out their natural sweetness. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a tasty addition to your main course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious side dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, onion, and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly complements various entrees, from chicken to vegetarian meals.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and fiber, these Brussels sprouts make for a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who aren’t fans of Brussels sprouts will love this crispy version!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfect roasting.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you will 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
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the tough stem ends and removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
2. Slice the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise from top to bottom.

Step 3: Coat the Sprouts

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Sprinkle this mixture over the Brussels sprouts and toss gently, pressing down to ensure it sticks.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

1. Arrange the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down for maximum crispiness.
2. Place in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

During the last 5 minutes of roasting:
1. Check for over-browning; give them a gentle toss if necessary for even crispiness.
2. Once done, remove from oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
3. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy these crispy, flavorful Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts!

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with roasted chicken for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside grilled turkey burgers for a fresh twist.
• Enjoy with baked salmon to balance the richness of the fish.

In a Salad

• Toss with mixed greens and vinaigrette for a warm salad.
• Add to quinoa salad for extra texture and flavor.
• Combine with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese for sweetness and creaminess.

As an Appetizer

• Serve in small bowls as finger food at parties.
• Accompany with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or balsamic glaze.
• Offer on a charcuterie board for a delightful veggie option.

How to Perfect Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Achieving the perfect crispy texture is key to making these Brussels sprouts shine. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts have better flavor and texture. Look for bright green, firm sprouts without blemishes.
• Cut evenly: Halving the sprouts ensures even cooking. Make sure all pieces are roughly the same size for consistent roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd: Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which prevents crispiness.
• Use high heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve that golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender.
• Check for doneness: Monitor closely during the last few minutes of roasting to prevent over-browning. A quick toss can help achieve even crispiness.
• Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve these Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven. They taste best when hot!

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair well with many side dishes. Consider these options to round out your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side dish that complements the crunchy sprouts perfectly.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber while enhancing your meal’s overall nutrition profile.
4. Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lemon and herbs provides a light and refreshing accompaniment to this dish.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the roasted sprouts.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Smoky grilled asparagus brings an earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with crispy Brussels sprouts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the trimming: Failing to cut off the tough stem ends or remove damaged leaves can lead to unappetizing textures. Always trim and clean your Brussels sprouts for the best results.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet can cause them to steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
• Not preheating the oven: Starting with a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure that the Brussels sprouts roast perfectly from the start.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking them too long can lead to burnt edges, while undercooking will leave them soggy. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end, for that perfect golden brown color.
• Forgetting to toss halfway through: Neglecting to toss the sprouts during roasting may cause uneven browning. Give them a gentle toss halfway through cooking for consistent crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover crispy Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, but note this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for varied flavors!

How do I make these Brussels sprouts vegan?

You can substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and remove any animal-derived products for a plant-based version.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep and season them ahead of time and then roast just before serving.

What pairs well with Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts go well with roasted meats, salads, or even as part of a vegetarian platter.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not only delectable but also versatile enough to complement various meals. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful dish!