Are you ready to transform Brussels sprouts into a crispy, cheesy delight? In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts that are sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and fun to share. Let’s dive into the world of flavor and enjoy a veggie treat that even the pickiest eaters will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
– 2 tablespoons thick balsamic vinegar
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
In this dish, I focus on fresh Brussels sprouts. Choose firm ones with bright green leaves. The olive oil adds richness, while garlic brings a bold flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan gives that yummy cheesy touch. I often use sea salt and cracked black pepper for extra taste. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes. The balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and tang, making each bite delightful. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color. With these ingredients, you will create a dish that is both tasty and fun to eat. You can find the Full Recipe above for detailed steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the Brussels sprouts become really crispy. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will stop sticking and make cleanup easy.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, take 1 pound of halved Brussels sprouts. Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss everything well. Make sure each sprout gets coated in oil and seasonings for great flavor.
Roasting Process
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. Keep them in a single layer. This space helps them roast evenly and get crispy. Roast the sprouts in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, carefully take the baking sheet out. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts. Toss gently to coat. Then, put them back in the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes. You want them golden brown and crispy.
Enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness! For the full recipe, check out the main article!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get the best crispiness from your Brussels sprouts, space them out on the baking sheet. If they sit too close, they will steam instead of roast. Aim for a single layer. This allows hot air to flow around each sprout.
Adjust roasting time based on your oven. If your sprouts are smaller, check them a bit earlier. For larger ones, you may need a few more minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the flavor? Add extra spices or herbs! A sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can add depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can work wonders too.
If you want to switch up the cheese, try using Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese brings a new twist to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts pair well with many main dishes. They go great with roasted chicken or grilled steak. You can also serve them alongside pasta for a vegetarian option.
Serve them hot for the best taste. The crispy texture fades as they cool, so enjoy them fresh out of the oven. For more details on the recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
To spice up your Brussels sprouts, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. This gives the dish a nice kick. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can always add more if you want more heat. Mix these spicy additions with the oil and garlic before coating the sprouts. The heat blends well with the cheese and garlic flavors, creating a delightful contrast.
Vegan Option
You can make these Brussels sprouts vegan by skipping the cheese. Instead, use nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast has a cheesy taste, making it a perfect substitute. Use about 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast to cover the sprouts. This change keeps the dish flavorful while making it dairy-free. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy a plant-based meal.
Add-In Ideas
Adding nuts or seeds to your Brussels sprouts can elevate the texture. Try tossing in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds. They add a delightful crunch. You can also mix in other veggies for more flavor. Carrots or bell peppers work nicely. Cut them into small pieces and roast them with the Brussels sprouts. This way, you create a colorful and tasty dish that is fun to eat.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts fresh, first let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavor and keeps them from drying out. Store the container in your fridge. You can keep them for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, don’t forget to label the container with the date.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your Brussels sprouts and keep them crispy, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. Check often to avoid burning. You can also use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes. This method works great for keeping that tasty crunch.
FAQs
How do I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?
To reduce bitterness, you can soak the Brussels sprouts in salted water before cooking. This helps draw out some of the strong flavors. Another tip is to roast them with a bit of sweetness, like honey or maple syrup, to balance the taste.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. Thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking. This helps remove excess moisture that can make them soggy.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Both options add a nice tang. You can also mix a bit of honey with your vinegar for a sweet twist.
Brussels sprouts can be a delicious and healthy side dish. This guide breaks down easy steps to roast them perfectly. We covered the best ingredients, prep methods, and cooking tips. I shared fun ways to enhance flavor and make variations. Storing leftovers properly keeps them fresh. Remember, fresh sprouts and the right seasonings make a big difference. I hope you enjoy cooking and sharing these tasty sprouts with friends and family. They are a great addition to any meal!
