How to Make Crunchy Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Are you tired of the same old veggie sides? Let me guide you through an easy and delicious way to level up your side dish game. Introducing Crunchy Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Brussels Sprouts – a dish so good, it might just steal the spotlight from the main course!

Gone are the days of ignoring these tiny green gems. When cooked right, Brussels sprouts are incredibly tasty and full of benefits. This recipe not only makes them irresistible but also retains their nutritious value. So, let’s dive into how you can create this mouth-watering dish at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 lb of fresh Brussels sprouts
2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to getting those sprouts perfectly crispy.

2. Clean and Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim off the bottom stem and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then, cut each sprout in half. If you have extra-large ones, you might prefer to quarter them to ensure even cooking.

3. Season Them Well

In a large bowl, toss the prepared Brussels sprouts with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well coated. This will not only help them roast beautifully but also enhance flavor absorption. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic over them, followed by a generous pinch of salt and pepper. If you enjoy a bit of heat, this is the perfect time to add those optional red pepper flakes into the mix.

4. Arrange for Roasting

Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow each one to become perfectly crispy.

5. Roast to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a stir or a shake to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully golden and crispy on the outside.

6. Add the Parmesan Magic

As soon as you take the sprouts out of the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top. The heat from the Brussels sprouts will melt the cheese slightly, creating a heavenly blend of flavors.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Your Crunchy Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are now ready to be devoured! Serve them hot as a fabulous side dish that will impress anyone at your dining table.

Tips for Success:

Pick Fresh Sprouts: Look for bright green Brussels sprouts that feel firm when you squeeze them. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter, while the larger ones can be more bitter.
Don’t Skip the Preheat: Making sure your oven is hot before the sprouts go in is crucial for achieving that delightful crispiness.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite herbs or swapping Parmesan for another type of cheese like Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Serve Immediately: Like most crispy roasted veggies, these sprouts taste best when fresh out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, they can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to bring back some of the crunch.

Conclusion

Making Crunchy Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Brussels Sprouts is not only easy but also a surefire way to turn this humble vegetable into a star side dish. By combining the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the natural goodness of Brussels sprouts, you end up with a dish that’s not only healthy but incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or impress your guests at a gathering, these roasted Brussels sprouts will not disappoint. So, go ahead, give them a try, and watch as everyone asks for seconds!