Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

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Introduction

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are a savory, crispy, and flavorful side dish that transforms the humble Brussels sprout into a mouthwatering treat. Roasted to perfection and coated with a golden Parmesan crust, these Brussels sprouts are the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and tender on the inside. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and sure to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy, low-carb snack, a side for your main course, or an easy recipe for a gathering, Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts will be the answer to your culinary needs.

Perfect for:

• Holiday dinners
• Family gatherings
• Weeknight meals
• Meal prep
• Health-conscious eaters
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Here’s why Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts will quickly become one of your favorite vegetable dishes:

• Savory and Cheesy Flavor: The combination of Parmesan cheese and a crispy coating brings out a savory, umami-rich flavor that complements the naturally earthy taste of Brussels sprouts.
• Crispy and Tender Texture: The Parmesan crust adds a crispy bite, while the Brussels sprouts remain tender inside, creating the perfect contrast in texture.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and healthy side dish ready in under an hour.
• Healthy: Roasting these Brussels sprouts retains their nutrients while adding rich flavor. Plus, they are naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and high in fiber and vitamins.
• Kid-Friendly: Many kids who typically aren’t fans of Brussels sprouts find them more palatable when roasted and coated with Parmesan cheese.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 14g, Fiber: 4g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Brussels Sprouts: The star of the dish, Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins (C, K, and folate), and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and healthy vegetable choice.
• Parmesan Cheese: A rich, salty cheese that creates a delicious crispy coating on the Brussels sprouts, giving them a cheesy crunch that everyone loves.
• Olive Oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts roast evenly while ensuring the Parmesan coating crisps up perfectly. Olive oil also adds a rich flavor to the dish.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Adds depth and savory flavor to the Brussels sprouts, making them even more irresistible.
• Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, which complements the Brussels sprouts and Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and even roasting.
2. Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, removing any outer leaves that are discolored or damaged. Slice the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy edges.
3. Toss with Olive Oil: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until they are evenly coated. The oil helps the sprouts crisp up and evenly roast.

Make the Parmesan Coating:

4. Prepare the Parmesan Mixture: In a separate small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano (or Italian seasoning), and red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture will form the crispy crust on the Brussels sprouts.

Coat the Brussels Sprouts:

5. Coat the Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the Brussels sprouts. Toss them again, ensuring they are evenly coated with the cheese and seasoning mixture. Make sure each piece gets a good layer of the Parmesan coating for a golden, crispy result.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Spread the coated Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the cut sides are facing down to ensure a nice caramelization and crispy texture.
7. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown, crispy on the edges, and tender in the center.

Finish and Serve:

8. Serve with Lemon: Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the Brussels sprouts for a tangy contrast to the savory, crispy crust.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts as a side dish to your favorite meal, or enjoy them on their own as a healthy snack.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Side Dish: These crispy Brussels sprouts make the perfect side dish to complement any main course, from grilled chicken to roasted lamb. They pair well with other roasted vegetables as well.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them as a light appetizer at your next dinner party. They’re perfect for snacking and sharing with friends.
• With Dipping Sauce: Try serving the Brussels sprouts with a side of creamy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• With Grains or Salad: Add the crispy Brussels sprouts on top of a bed of quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad for a hearty meal.
• As a Snack: These Brussels sprouts are great as a mid-day snack or a healthy treat for when you’re craving something crispy and savory.

Additional Tips for Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Here are some tips to make your Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts even better:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: If the Brussels sprouts are too close together, they’ll steam rather than roast, which will affect the crispy texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to customize the flavor. A little smoked paprika or thyme can elevate the dish.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent the cheese from crisping up properly.
• For Extra Crispiness: After roasting, you can broil the Brussels sprouts for an additional 1-2 minutes to get an extra crispy finish. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Add a Sweet Twist: Drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts right before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory flavor.

Recipe Variations of Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Here are 10 variations of Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts you can try:

• Bacon-Wrapped Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Wrap each Brussels sprout in halal turkey bacon before roasting for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the Brussels sprouts a spicy kick.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Add minced garlic and extra lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for a burst of citrus and garlic flavor.
• Herbed Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Use fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant twist.
• Parmesan and Pine Nut Brussels Sprouts: Add toasted pine nuts to the Brussels sprouts for a crunchy, nutty element.
• Honey Glazed Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle honey on top of the Brussels sprouts after roasting for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Pesto: Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts in a dollop of homemade pesto for a fresh, basil-forward twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits: Add crumbled halal turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits for an extra savory punch.
• Parmesan and Walnut Brussels Sprouts: Toss with toasted chopped walnuts for a crunchy, nutty finish.
• Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts after roasting for a tangy-sweet glaze.

Freezing and Storage for Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

• Freezing: To freeze these Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts, place the cooled sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Storage: Store the cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They may lose a little bit of crispiness upon reheating, but they will still be delicious.

Special Equipment for Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Here are 10 special equipment items you might need to make Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet is essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts evenly.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents the Brussels sprouts from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Grater: A box grater or microplane will help you grate the Parmesan cheese finely for an even coating.
• Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing the Brussels sprouts in the olive oil and Parmesan mixture.
• Tongs: Use tongs to flip the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking, ensuring even browning.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
• Citrus Juicer: If you’re using fresh lemon juice for serving, a citrus juicer makes it easy to extract the juice.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements for the seasonings will ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
• Cooling Rack: Once the Brussels sprouts are done, you can place them on a cooling rack to help them stay crispier.
• Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when removing the baking sheet from the oven.

FAQ Section about Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe, as they roast with a crispier texture. Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to be softer and may not crisp up as well.
2. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you’re using does not contain any added flour or gluten.
3. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and coat them with Parmesan ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and roast them just before serving.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   While Parmesan is the most flavorful choice for the crust, you can experiment with other hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
5. Are these Brussels sprouts spicy?
   The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the level of spice by adding more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.

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Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are a delicious and versatile dish that adds a crispy, cheesy twist to a classic vegetable. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these sprouts are a perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them on their own as a savory snack. With a golden, crispy crust and tender interior, these Brussels sprouts will win over even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy this healthy, flavorful dish today!