If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, effortlessly healthy, and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters, you’ve come to the right place. This Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe brings together the nutty crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts with the irresistible savory zing of garlic and a cheesy Parmesan finish. It’s a dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a superstar on your dinner table, balancing healthfulness and indulgence in every bite. Trust me, once you try this one, it’ll become a regular favorite you’ll be excited to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and thoughtfully combined ingredients that each play a crucial role in turning Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering treat. Every component adds something special, from the gentle heat of garlic to the salty depth of Parmesan cheese and the fresh pop of parsley.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Fresh Brussels sprouts provide the earthy, slightly sweet base with a wonderful texture when roasted.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to crisp up the sprouts and ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic punch that elevates the dish beyond simple roasted vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers subtle heat and a hint of earthiness to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a touch of spice, these flakes bring a lively kick.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers the creamy, nutty richness that ties everything together with a luscious coating.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the plate with color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Brussels Sprouts
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, give your Brussels sprouts a rinse under cold water. Pat them dry thoroughly — drying is key to getting that perfect crispy roast. Trim the ends, then slice each sprout in half lengthwise so they roast evenly.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want that extra spicy flair. Make sure every piece is well coated – the oil not only keeps them moist but helps create those irresistible caramelized edges.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid overcrowding — this ensures they roast evenly and get crispy instead of steaming. Pop the sheet into your oven and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a good toss to cook evenly. Watch closely towards the end for a gorgeous golden-brown color that signals they’re ready.
Step 4: Add the Magical Parmesan
Once roasted to crispy perfection, take the Brussels sprouts out and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss them so the cheese melts slightly and sticks to every crispy nook and cranny. This is where the magic really happens — that cheesy coating is pure indulgence on a healthy vegetable.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and finish with a scatter of freshly chopped parsley. The pop of green not only looks inviting but adds a touch of fresh earthiness that complements the rich Parmesan beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe
Garnishes
For an added boost in texture and flavor, consider tossing a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze alongside the parsley garnish. These small touches enhance the dish and bring a fresh, gourmet vibe to your kitchen table.
Side Dishes
These Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple pasta dish. Their robust flavor and healthy profile also make them perfect alongside grain bowls or as part of a vegetarian main plate with quinoa or lentils.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try serving the Brussels sprouts atop a bed of creamy polenta or spoon them into toasted baguette slices for a fantastic appetizer. Their crispy texture and bold flavor make them versatile enough to star in many creative presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their best quality for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for a second delicious round.
Freezing
Freezing roasted Brussels sprouts can be tricky as they may lose some crispiness. If you want to freeze them, spread cooled sprouts on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 to 2 months and expect softer texture once thawed.
Reheating
For the tastiest reheating, warm them in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to revive some of that wonderful roasted crispness. A quick toss will bring back the flavors and texture much better than nuking them.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw and pat them dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture, though fresh Brussels sprouts typically yield the best crispy texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can swap Parmesan cheese for a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor while making it vegan-friendly.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that gently lingers, but you can always adjust the amount or omit them for a milder version.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
Fresh parsley adds a nice bright finish but isn’t essential. You can substitute with fresh basil, chives, or simply skip the garnish for a straightforward presentation.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about sinking your teeth into these crispy, garlicky, Parmesan-coated Brussels sprouts that are as delightful to eat as they are nourishing. This Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe has become a personal staple for good reason — it’s simple, quick, and impressively delicious. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your go-to side for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish featuring roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe yields crispy, golden Brussels sprouts with a perfect balance of savory, garlicky flavors and a hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes. Garnished with fresh parsley, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasoning
- 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)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the Brussels sprouts.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water, then pat them dry completely. Trim off the ends and cut each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss thoroughly so all sprouts are coated in oil and seasoning.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the coated Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they have space to roast evenly.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing the sprouts halfway through cooking to promote even browning and crispiness.
- Monitor for Doneness: In the last few minutes of roasting, check for a golden brown, crispy exterior. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed to achieve desired crispiness.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently toss the sprouts to distribute the cheese evenly while still warm.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve warm as a flavorful side or a vegetarian main dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure Brussels sprouts are completely dry before tossing with oil.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- These Brussels sprouts can be reheated in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Great served alongside roasted meats, pasta dishes, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
