Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply as a healthy snack, these sprouts are tender on the inside and wonderfully crispy on the outside. The nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese combined with the crunch of panko breadcrumbs creates a unique texture that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Crunch: The combination of Parmesan and panko gives these Brussels sprouts a deliciously crispy exterior.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for beginner cooks.
• Versatile Side Dish: These roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with a variety of main courses, making them a great addition to any meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this dish offers a guilt-free way to enjoy vegetables.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for an extra flavor kick!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

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 an even surface for roasting, ensuring your sprouts cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily toss ingredients together for even coating.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for trimming and slicing the Brussels sprouts efficiently.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Fresh Produce

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts

Pantry Staples

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings

• 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: Season the Sprouts

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the halved Brussels sprouts.
2. Drizzle olive oil over them and toss thoroughly until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the sprouts; toss again to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Add the Coating

In a separate small bowl:
1. Combine grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Sprinkle this mixture over the seasoned Brussels sprouts, tossing gently while pressing down so that it sticks well.

Step 5: Roast the Sprouts

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 preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on edges.

Step 6: Final Touches

During the last 5 minutes of roasting:
1. Check on them to prevent over-browning; if necessary, give them a gentle toss for even crispiness.

Step 7: Serve

Once done:
1. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving dish.
2. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over them for added color and freshness.
3. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts!

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or a cozy dinner, here are some fantastic ways to present and enjoy them.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli complements the crispy texture with a smooth finish.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze for a sweet-tart contrast that enhances the sprouts’ flavor.

As a Salad Topping

• Mixed Greens: Toss these sprouts on a bed of mixed greens for added crunch and nutrition.
• Quinoa Salad: Add them to quinoa salad for a hearty, healthy addition packed with protein.

Alongside Main Courses

• Grilled Chicken: Pair with grilled chicken for a balanced meal full of flavor.
• Turkey Meatballs: Serve alongside turkey meatballs for a delicious, comforting combination.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Veggie Wrap: Include in a veggie wrap with hummus and other fresh vegetables for a satisfying lunch.
• Sandwich Filling: Use as a filling in sandwiches for an unexpected twist on traditional flavors.

How to Perfect Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Achieving the perfect crispy texture and flavor can elevate your Brussels sprouts game. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out sensational every time.

• Bold seasoning: Use generous amounts of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful base.
• High heat roasting: Roast at 400°F (200°C) to achieve that golden brown and crispy exterior.
• Single layer placement: Arrange the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Toss halfway through: Give the Brussels sprouts a gentle toss halfway through roasting to promote even browning.
• Fresh cheese topping: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and crispiness.
• Garnish wisely: Finish with fresh parsley or other herbs after roasting for added freshness and color.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance the crispy texture of the sprouts.
2. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic complements the flavors beautifully.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is light yet satisfying alongside crispy sprouts.
4. Lemon Herb Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with lemon juice and herbs adds brightness to your plate while being nutritious.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers freshness and pairs well with the rich Parmesan crust.
6. Couscous Salad: A couscous salad packed with vegetables provides both flavor and texture, making it an excellent companion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help achieve the best flavor and texture for your Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven reaches 400°F (200°C) before roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many Brussels sprouts on one sheet can trap steam, preventing crispiness. Arrange them in a single layer for optimal results.
• Skipping the oil: Omitting olive oil will lead to dry sprouts. The oil helps the seasoning adhere and promotes browning, so don’t skip this important step.
• Ignoring the size of sprouts: Using Brussels sprouts of different sizes can cause uneven cooking. Aim for uniform-sized sprouts for consistent doneness.
• Not checking their doneness: Leaving them in the oven without checking can lead to burnt edges. Monitor them during the last few minutes for perfect crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container.
• They will remain good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
• Microwave: Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, but note that they may lose their crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.

How do I make these Brussels sprouts vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based gelling agent if needed.

What should I serve with Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These roasted sprouts pair well with grilled chicken, turkey, or as part of a mixed vegetable platter.

Can I prepare these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and season them ahead, but it’s best to roast them just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are sure to impress at any meal. This versatile side dish allows room for customization; try adding your favorite herbs or spices to tailor it to your taste preferences. Enjoy making this delicious recipe!