Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Highlighted under: Fresh & Light
I absolutely love roasted Brussels sprouts, especially when they're tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying, transforming the often overlooked vegetable into a star dish. The combination of roasting and the sharpness of garlic paired with the nuttiness of Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that leaves everyone craving more. It's become a staple for family dinners and gatherings because it's both impressive and easy to prepare. Trust me, once you try these, they'll be a go-to side in your kitchen!
When I first tried roasting Brussels sprouts, I was amazed at how caramelizing them could enhance their natural sweetness and complexity. I always ensure to coat them generously with olive oil and season well before roasting, which makes a world of difference in flavor. There's something utterly satisfying about that crispy exterior combined with a tender inside; it's a textural delight that I crave regularly.
One tip I've learned is to roast them cut side down on the baking sheet for the first half of cooking. This allows the cut edges to get incredibly caramelized and crispy, creating a rich depth of flavor. Finish them off with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan right before serving for that cheesy, umami kick!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of savory garlic and rich Parmesan flavors.
- Crispy edges and tender interiors make every bite satisfying.
- Easy to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion.
The Science of Roasting
Roasting Brussels sprouts at the right temperature is critical for achieving that coveted crispy texture. By preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), you're optimizing the heat to caramelize the natural sugars in the sprouts while providing a satisfying crunch on the outside. If you're aiming for even more browning, consider using a convection setting if your oven has one; this circulates the air, helping to evenly roast your sprouts and enhance crispiness.
Another key aspect of roasting is the spacing on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer without overcrowding them. This ensures they roast rather than steam, avoiding a mushy texture. If you notice them steaming instead of browning, you might want to increase the temperature slightly or give them some extra room on the pan.
The Role of Garlic and Parmesan
Garlic and Parmesan are not merely flavor enhancers; they elevate the overall experience of roasted Brussels sprouts. Minced garlic caramelizes during roasting, creating a delightful aroma and adding a rich, savory depth. To maximize garlic's impact, ensure it's evenly distributed among the sprouts. If you're a garlic lover like me, consider adding an extra clove or two for an even more robust flavor.
Parmesan, with its nutty profile, complements the sprouts perfectly. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal since it melts and clings better than pre-grated varieties. If you want a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can add a similar umami flavor while keeping the dish vegan. Just sprinkle a bit more than you would Parmesan to achieve that savory depth.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a delicious side:
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these ingredients ready, it's time to bring the magic to the kitchen!
Instructions
Follow these steps for perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure your Brussels sprouts roast beautifully.
Prepare Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
Roast
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Add Parmesan
Once roasted, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
Serve
Serve warm as a delightful side dish for any meal!
Enjoy this savory delight with your favorite entrees!
Pro Tips
- For best results, make sure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with olive oil and do not overcrowd them on the baking sheet, as this can result in steaming rather than crisping.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These roasted garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts can be prepared in advance to save time on busy weeknights or during festive gatherings. You can trim and halve the sprouts a day ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast. Just remember to toss them with the garlic and olive oil right before roasting for maximum freshness.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last up to three days, but keep in mind the crispiness will diminish. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and pop them back in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts serve as a stellar side dish for any meal, especially alongside roasted meats or hearty grains. For a festive presentation, consider serving them on a platter drizzled with a balsamic reduction or topped with toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
If you're looking to bring in more flavor, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the entire dish and complements the richness of the Parmesan. Additionally, for a more filling option, try mixing in some cooked quinoa or farro for a wholesome grain salad that showcases the sprouts beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best texture and flavor.
→ How can I make this dish vegan?
You can substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and use olive oil as the fat source.
→ What else can I add to these Brussels sprouts?
Feel free to add diced bacon or pancetta for extra flavor, or toss in some balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the Brussels sprouts and store them in the refrigerator. Roast them just before serving for the best results.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
I absolutely love roasted Brussels sprouts, especially when they're tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying, transforming the often overlooked vegetable into a star dish. The combination of roasting and the sharpness of garlic paired with the nuttiness of Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that leaves everyone craving more. It's become a staple for family dinners and gatherings because it's both impressive and easy to prepare. Trust me, once you try these, they'll be a go-to side in your kitchen!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure your Brussels sprouts roast beautifully.
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Once roasted, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
Serve warm as a delightful side dish for any meal!
Extra Tips
- For best results, make sure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with olive oil and do not overcrowd them on the baking sheet, as this can result in steaming rather than crisping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g