Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a tasty treat you can whip up quickly. In just a few easy steps, you can enjoy a dish that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you're a busy cook or just love bold flavors, this recipe will add zing to any meal. Let’s dive into how to transform simple Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich taste of garlic pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts, making each bite irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, so you can whip it up quickly on a busy weeknight.
- Healthy Side Dish: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, making this a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: These Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even added to salads for extra flavor.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts are simple and quick to make. You only need a few fresh ingredients. First, you’ll need one pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them for even cooking. Next, gather three tablespoons of olive oil. This oil helps the sprouts roast well and adds flavor.
Garlic is a key part of this dish. You will need four cloves of garlic, minced. The garlic gives a tasty aroma and flavor to the sprouts. To season, add one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. If you like heat, toss in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Cheese is where the magic happens. Use half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. It melts beautifully and adds richness. Finally, for a sweet touch, drizzle two tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the finished dish. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and a fresh taste.
These ingredients combine to create a dish that is both tasty and satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This baking temperature helps the Brussels sprouts become crispy. While the oven heats, trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. This step helps them cook evenly.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with these ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Toss everything until the sprouts are well-coated. This mixture brings flavor and richness to the dish.
Roasting Process
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roasting them helps enhance their natural flavors. Place them in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Once they turn golden brown and crispy on the edges, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the hot sprouts. The heat will melt the cheese just enough. Finally, drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the top. This adds a nice sweet touch. For a pop of color, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crispiness
To get that nice crunch, stir the Brussels sprouts halfway through roasting. This helps them cook evenly. I also recommend using parchment paper. It makes cleanup easy and helps the sprouts crisp up nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Consider thyme or rosemary to add depth. For a stronger garlic kick, try using garlic powder along with fresh garlic. This gives a richer garlic flavor. You can also mix in lemon zest for a bright touch.
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Skip the Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a robust flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for a fresher taste.
- Adjust the Parmesan: Feel free to use more or less Parmesan cheese based on your preference, or try a different cheese for variety.
- Perfect the Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze right before serving for a burst of flavor and to prevent it from becoming too thick during baking.
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can change up the cheese for your Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts. If you want a new taste, try using Pecorino Romano. It has a strong flavor that pairs well with the sprouts. You can also use Grana Padano. It is milder but still creamy.
If you want a vegan option, you can use nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just sprinkle some on top after roasting. You'll still get that great taste without the cheese!
Additional Flavor Profiles
To add extra flavor, consider mixing in bacon or prosciutto. Cook them first, then toss them with the sprouts before roasting. The salty meat adds a nice crunch and depth to the dish.
You can also mix in seasonal vegetables. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms work well. Just cut them to the same size as your Brussels sprouts. This way, they cook evenly. It adds color and nutrition, making your dish even better!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Store the sprouts in the fridge for up to three days. This duration keeps them tasty and safe to eat.
Reheating Suggestions
When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you can choose between the oven or the microwave. The oven is my favorite. It helps keep the sprouts crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave works too. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover the sprouts with a damp paper towel. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds. This keeps some moisture but may not keep them as crispy. For the best taste, the oven is the way to go!
FAQs
How do I know when Brussels sprouts are done roasting?
Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden and crispy. Check for a nice brown color on the edges. They should feel tender when you poke them with a fork. If you see a bit of char, that’s a good sign!
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them early! Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day before. Store them in a sealed container in the fridge. When you are ready to cook, just toss them with the olive oil and spices.
For reheating, I suggest using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy and tasty.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. They go great with grilled chicken or steak. You could also serve them with roasted salmon for a healthy meal.
If you want to mix flavors, try pairing them with Italian or Mediterranean dishes. Their savory taste complements pasta or risotto nicely. Consider adding a simple salad or some crusty bread on the side too!
In this blog post, I covered how to make Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to achieve perfect crispiness. You learned about tasty variations and best storage methods for leftovers.
Brussels sprouts are simple yet versatile. They can impress at any meal. Try adding your twist to the recipe. You’ll enjoy these delicious sprouts as much as I do.
