Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that turns even the most skeptical eaters into Brussels sprouts fans, then these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are just what you need! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve served these at family gatherings or on busy weeknights and received nothing but rave reviews. There’s something magical about the way the crispy, golden coating complements the tender inside of the sprouts, making them a delightful treat for everyone.

Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive holiday feast, this recipe brings warmth and joy to any table. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you might find yourself making it more often than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: Even kids who usually shy away from vegetables can’t resist these crispy bites! It’s a great way to sneak in some greens.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep everything in advance and pop them in the oven right before serving, saving you time during mealtime.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese and spices creates a savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with any main course, from roasted chicken to hearty grains.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You probably have most of these items already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll 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

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with it. Here are a few variations to try:

• Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a vegan option!
• Mix In Other Veggies: Toss in some sliced carrots or bell peppers with your Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This step ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast evenly and makes cleanup super easy!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim off the tough ends of your Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow leaves. This helps eliminate bitterness and gives you nice, tender bites.

Step 3: Halve Them

Slice each sprout in half lengthwise. Not only does this help them cook faster, but it also allows more surface area for that delicious crispiness!

Step 4: Season with Olive Oil

In a large mixing bowl, toss your halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil until they are well coated. The oil is essential as it helps achieve that beautiful golden color while roasting.

Step 5: Add Spices

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over your oiled sprouts. Toss again until everything is evenly distributed—this seasoning makes all the difference in flavor!

Step 6: Combine Cheese and Breadcrumbs

In a separate bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. This combination creates that irresistible crispy crust.

Step 7: Coat with Cheese Mixture

Sprinkle your Parmesan-panko mixture over the seasoned Brussels sprouts. Gently toss them again so every sprout gets its fair share of that crunchy goodness.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place your coated Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This position helps them caramelize beautifully as they roast.

Step 9: Roast Away!

Roast in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; nobody wants burnt veggies!

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Once done, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and color—perfect for impressing guests! Serve hot and watch everyone enjoy their new favorite side dish!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Getting that perfect crispiness can be a game changer for your Brussels sprouts!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts will roast better than older ones. Look for bright green, tightly closed heads for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut Evenly: Halving the Brussels sprouts ensures they cook evenly. This way, every piece becomes golden brown and crispy without leaving any undercooked parts.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each sprout enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam and leads to sogginess instead of crispiness.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a lighter, airier crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. This helps achieve that delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside.
• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on the sprouts during roasting to avoid over-browning. A quick toss halfway can help them crisp up evenly.

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These delicious Brussels sprouts not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table. Here are some great ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds a bright pop of flavor that complements the richness of the Parmesan.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the top for a sweet-tangy finish that enhances the savory notes.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes will bring a nice kick to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with these sprouts and adds a refreshing touch.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts, making it an ideal side for any meal.
• Roasted Chicken Thighs: The juicy meat of roasted chicken thighs complements the crispy vegetables beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying dinner plate.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs makes for an aromatic side that works wonderfully alongside these roasted delights.

Enjoy serving your Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts with these wonderful additions! They’re sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy their delightful crunch throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
• Spread the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the leftover Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this recipe.

What makes these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts so special?

The combination of nutty Parmesan cheese and crunchy panko breadcrumbs creates a delightful texture that enhances the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, making them irresistible!

Can I use other types of cheese for Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a unique flavor, you can try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a delicious twist. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.

How do I make sure my Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn out crispy?

To ensure maximum crispiness, make sure to coat the sprouts evenly with oil, space them out on the baking sheet, and roast them at a high temperature. Tossing them halfway through helps achieve even browning.

Is there a way to adjust this recipe for different dietary needs?

Yes! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, nutritional yeast can replace cheese for a vegan-friendly option while still providing that cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They’re perfect as a side dish or even as a tasty snack. The balance of flavors and textures will surely impress anyone at your table. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you tried — happy cooking!