If you’re searching for a side dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, look no further. These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are here to steal the show at your next meal. Perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with a savory garlic-Parmesan coating—this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, steak, or pasta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be honest: Brussels sprouts have had a bad rap for years. But when they’re roasted to golden perfection and tossed with garlic butter and Parmesan, even skeptics can’t resist. This dish is:
- Crispy and caramelized: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while creating a satisfying crunch.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning is simply irresistible.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Healthy and nutritious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish is as good for you as it tastes.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with almost any main course—from hearty meats to light fish dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
To make these mouthwatering Brussels sprouts, you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients: fresh Brussels sprouts, olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. For an extra pop of brightness, consider adding some lemon zest before serving.
When choosing your ingredients, opt for high-quality options whenever possible. Freshly grated Parmesan makes a world of difference compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect texture. If you’re feeling indulgent, swap olive oil for melted butter—it adds a rich, luxurious flavor that pairs beautifully with the sprouts.
Instructions
Making these Brussels sprouts is so straightforward, you might wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. Here’s how to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish:
- Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. A hot oven ensures your sprouts get nice and crispy! - Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Halving them exposes more surface area, allowing for maximum caramelization during roasting. Be sure to pat them dry with a paper towel if they’re damp—dry sprouts = crispy results! - Season Generously
In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure each piece is evenly coated for consistent flavor. - Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This technique helps achieve those coveted crispy edges. Roast for 20 minutes, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to let the cheese melt and crisp slightly. - Garnish and Serve
Once done, transfer the sprouts to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, zesty finish. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every bite!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips to take your Brussels sprouts game to the next level:
- Go for Extra Crispy: If you love ultra-crispy sprouts, broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried or powdered versions.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet. Crowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Toss in toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch, or drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet-tangy twist.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While freezing isn’t recommended due to texture changes, reheating is a breeze. Simply warm them in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or pop them into an air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes. They’ll regain their crispiness and taste just as good as fresh out of the oven.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile. Pair them with grilled chicken for a weeknight dinner, serve them alongside roasted salmon for a healthy option, or bring them to a holiday feast as a standout side dish. Feeling adventurous? Drizzle them with honey or balsamic reduction for a sweet-and-savory combo that’s sure to impress.
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to customize it based on your preferences:
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love heat.
- Balsamic Bliss: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet note.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans over the top for added texture.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, for perfectly crispy sprouts without turning on the oven.
FAQs
Got questions? We’ve got answers!
- How do I make Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
Roast at high heat, place them cut-side down, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Broiling for a minute or two at the end also works wonders. - Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and thoroughly pat them dry first to ensure proper caramelization. - What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pecorino or asiago are excellent substitutes. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. - How do I reduce bitterness in Brussels sprouts?
Roasting naturally reduces bitterness, but tossing them in a bit of honey or balsamic vinegar before cooking can help balance the flavors.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. With their crispy exteriors, tender interiors, and bold seasoning, they’re guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. So grab a bunch of fresh sprouts, fire up the oven, and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Arrange Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20 minutes, then remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Return to the oven and roast for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
