If you’re on the lookout for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and downright addictive, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: the Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe. This dish transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a crispy, garlicky, cheesy masterpiece that makes even the most skeptical veggie eaters come back for seconds. Roasted to golden perfection and finished with freshly grated Parmesan and a fresh parsley garnish, this recipe is the perfect combination of savory, comforting, and a little bit fancy. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a permanent favorite in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the wonderful things about this Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe is how simple yet impactful the ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role: from the earthy sprouts themselves to the rich olive oil and nutty Parmesan cheese that build layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: The star of the dish—fresh and firm for the best roasting results.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the sprouts get that irresistible crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a lovely salty, nutty finish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a pop of fresh color and flavor.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the Brussels sprouts so they develop a crispy exterior while staying tender inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and dry them thoroughly—this step is essential for getting that perfect roast. Trim the ends and cut each sprout in half lengthwise, which helps them cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, coat the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Toss everything together to make sure each sprout is well covered in the flavorful mixture.
Step 4: Roast to Golden Perfection
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet—crowding will cause steaming instead of roasting. Place them in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them toward the end to achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Toss
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the hot Brussels sprouts. Gently toss to coat every piece with cheesy goodness. This step gives the dish its signature savory richness that makes it so irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Transfer your Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This final touch brightens the flavors and adds a lovely splash of color. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also experiment with finely chopped chives or a zest of lemon for a zingy twist. For extra indulgence, a few shavings of extra Parmesan right before serving will add an elegant flair.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. It’s also fantastic alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa or wild rice, balancing the meal with its bold, nutty flavors and crisp texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Brussels sprouts on a rustic wooden board for casual gatherings or plating them neatly in a colorful bowl for a dinner party. They also work well tossed into a warm grain bowl or even on top of a loaded flatbread as a tasty vegetarian option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and believe me, that’s rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy these crispy, cheesy sprouts another time.
Freezing
While Brussels sprouts can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them before roasting for optimum texture. The roasted version tends to lose some crispness when thawed, but if necessary, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating
To bring back the crunch and flavor, reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or oven rather than a microwave. This method helps restore their crispness and keeps the garlic and Parmesan flavors fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts give the best texture and flavor for this Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe, you can use frozen sprouts if needed. Just thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting to avoid sogginess.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, which provides a similar nutty, cheesy taste without animal products.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
If you’re sensitive to heat, simply omit the red pepper flakes. The garlic and Parmesan already pack plenty of flavor without needing extra spice.
Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance?
You can trim, halve, and toss the Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast—just be sure to give them a quick stir before placing them in the oven.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries! You can substitute fresh parsley with other herbs like basil, thyme, or even a sprinkle of dried herbs for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe enough because it truly turns a simple vegetable into your new favorite dish. Warm, crispy, bursting with garlic and cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and the perfect companion to almost any meal. I’m confident that once you taste it, you’ll be making it again and again—so go ahead and treat yourself to these irresistible sprouts!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful and healthy side dish featuring crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the natural sweetness and nuttiness of Brussels sprouts, enhanced with aromatic garlic and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasoning & Flavor
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it reaches the correct temperature before roasting begins for even cooking.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry completely to avoid excess moisture that can hinder roasting.
- Trim and Halve: Trim the ends of each Brussels sprout and cut them in half lengthwise to promote even roasting and caramelization.
- Combine with Olive Oil: In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts and drizzle with olive oil to coat them evenly.
- Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the bowl to infuse the sprouts with its aromatic flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle heat element.
- Toss to Coat: Thoroughly mix all ingredients until the Brussels sprouts are well coated with oil and seasonings, ensuring maximum flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly without steaming.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing the sprouts halfway through to promote even browning.
- Monitor for Crispiness: In the final minutes, watch closely to ensure the Brussels sprouts become golden brown and crispy without burning.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove the sprouts from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top while they are still hot.
- Toss Gently: Toss the Brussels sprouts gently to distribute the Parmesan cheese evenly throughout the dish.
- Serve: Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts to a serving dish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Enjoy: Serve warm as a delicious side dish or a main vegetarian course.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spread Brussels sprouts out so they aren’t touching on the baking sheet.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice mild heat that complements the garlic and Parmesan.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Brussels sprouts can be substituted with other small, dense vegetables like halved baby cauliflower or broccolini if desired.
