Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts have come a long way from being the dreaded vegetable on many dinner tables. When properly prepared—especially when roasted to crispy, caramelized perfection—they transform into an irresistible side dish that even former Brussels sprouts skeptics will love. This Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts recipe elevates the humble vegetable with savory Parmesan cheese, aromatic garlic, and the perfect seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Brussels sprouts recipe deserves a place in your regular meal rotation:

• The Brussels sprouts become deliciously crispy and caramelized on the outside while staying tender inside
• The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible savory flavor profile
• It’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
• The dish is naturally low-carb, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients
• It’s versatile enough for both special holiday dinners and everyday meals
• You can easily customize it with additional flavors or ingredients

Brussels sprouts are not only delicious when prepared this way, but they’re also nutritional powerhouses. Like other cruciferous vegetables, they’re rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins while being naturally low in calories. This makes our roasted Brussels sprouts recipe both indulgent-tasting and good for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of this recipe is its simplicity. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to create this flavorful side dish:

• Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound (about 450g), trimmed and halved
• Olive Oil: 2-3 tablespoons (you can substitute melted butter for a richer flavor)
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated, plus extra for serving if desired
• Salt and Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (optional but recommended)

For a variation with even more texture, you can add 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs to create an extra crispy coating.

Equipment Needed

This recipe requires minimal equipment, making cleanup a breeze:

• Large baking sheet or roasting pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for trimming the Brussels sprouts
• Garlic press (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts every time:

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect caramelization.
2. Rinse your Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water.
3. Trim the ends and remove any discolored outer leaves.
4. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise through the stem. This increases the surface area that will caramelize.

Seasoning the Brussels Sprouts

1. In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
2. Toss thoroughly until all the sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to distribute it evenly among the sprouts.

Roasting Process

1. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on your baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this would cause them to steam rather than roast.
2. For maximum caramelization, place the sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges. The exact time will depend on the size of your sprouts and your oven’s calibration.
4. For even crispier sprouts, you can stir them halfway through the cooking time, though this isn’t strictly necessary.

Serving

1. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven when they’re golden and crispy.
2. For additional flavor, you can sprinkle some extra freshly grated Parmesan on top while the sprouts are still hot.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with these professional tips:

• Size Matters: Try to select Brussels sprouts of similar size so they cook evenly.
• Dry Thoroughly: After washing, make sure to pat the sprouts dry. Excess moisture will prevent proper caramelization.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give your Brussels sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of roasting.
• Cut Side Down: Place the halved sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet for maximum caramelization on the flat surfaces.
• Check for Doneness: The edges should be crispy and dark golden, and a fork should easily pierce the center.
• Fresh Garlic Is Best: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic provides superior flavor.
• Quality Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged varieties for the best flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this base recipe is incredibly delicious, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences:

Flavor Enhancements

• Add Lemon: For brightness, add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest before roasting.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction after roasting for a sweet-tangy finish.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Herb Variations: Substitute rosemary, thyme, or herbs de Provence for the Italian seasoning.

Textural Add-Ins

• Nuts: Toss with toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or slivered almonds after roasting.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan for an extra crispy coating.
• Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon bits just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

While these Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare elements in advance:

• Prep Ahead: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Storage: Leftover roasted Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled or baked salmon
• Beef tenderloin or steak
• Pork chops or tenderloin
• As part of a vegetarian grain bowl

They’re perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but simple enough for weeknight dinners too.

Nutritional Benefits

Brussels sprouts aren’t just delicious—they’re also incredibly nutritious:

• High in fiber, promoting digestive health
• Rich in vitamins K and C
• Good source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
• Contain alpha-lipoic acid, which has been shown to have multiple health benefits
• Low in calories but high in nutrients

When paired with the healthy fats from olive oil and the protein from Parmesan, this dish becomes even more nutritionally balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?

A: Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright green, firm, and compact. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter. Avoid any with yellowing leaves, which indicates age.

Q: Why are my Brussels sprouts bitter?

A: Bitterness usually comes from undercooking or overcooking. Properly roasted Brussels sprouts develop a sweet, nutty flavor. The caramelization process reduces bitterness.

Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

A: Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for roasting, as frozen ones contain more moisture and won’t crisp up as well. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry before roasting.

Q: Are Brussels sprouts and cabbage the same thing?

A: They’re related but different vegetables. Brussels sprouts are in the same family (Brassica) as cabbage but are a different variety. They look like mini cabbages but have their own distinct flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative for a similar flavor profile.

Whether you’re a longtime Brussels sprouts enthusiast or a recent convert, this Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The crispy, caramelized exterior combined with the savory garlic and Parmesan flavors creates a side dish that’s as impressive as it is simple to prepare.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman