Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that manages to be delightfully crispy, bursting with flavor, and downright irresistible, these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts, caramelized in the oven, tossed with golden garlic and finished with a generous shower of Parmesan—salty, cheesy, and absolutely crave-worthy. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family dinner or craving a wholesome snack, this recipe transforms simple veggies into a feast that has everyone reaching for seconds. You’ll find the perfect balance of savory, zesty, and just a little kick, all wrapped up in every bite of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts lies in its short, no-nonsense ingredient list. Each star brings something special to the table—be it nuttiness, brightness, or a hit of umami. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how every ingredient does its part in crafting serious flavor magic.

• Brussels sprouts: Select fresh, bright-green sprouts for the sweetest taste and crisp-tender texture—halving them helps them roast evenly and soak up every bit of flavor.
• Olive oil: This kitchen staple not only helps the sprouts crisp up but also infuses them with that rich, unmistakable Mediterranean flavor.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of fragrance and savory depth—don’t skimp, it’s where much of the magic happens!
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts just enough to become irresistibly crisp in the oven, lending a salty, nutty finish you don’t want to miss.
• Salt and pepper: These classics enhance all the flavors—season generously, tasting as you go for perfect results.
• Lemon juice: A fresh squeeze awakens the dish, balancing richness and adding a bright, tangy layer.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of excitement, sprinkle these on at the end—just a little brings gentle heat that suits the cheese and garlic beautifully.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Giving your oven time to fully heat up is key, as a hot oven ensures your Brussels sprouts roast to crispy, golden perfection. While it preheats, you can get everything else ready—this little bit of prep makes all the difference for those irresistible caramelized edges.

Step 2: Toss Brussels Sprouts with Olive Oil, Garlic, Salt, and Pepper

Place your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, then add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to toss everything together until all the sprouts are evenly coated. You’ll want that glorious olive oil and fragrant garlic to touch every single piece—it’s where the deep flavor begins to build.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Next, grab a large baking sheet and spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single, even layer. Make sure the cut sides are facing down—this little trick helps them get beautifully caramelized and deliciously crisp. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, so give them some space to shine!

Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Tender

Slip the tray into your preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for deep golden color and crispy edges, with the inside perfectly tender. If your oven is a bit on the hot side or your sprouts are on the small side, check them at the 20-minute mark. Give them a gentle shake halfway through so they roast evenly.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Lemon Juice

Once the sprouts are roasted, immediately sprinkle them with the grated Parmesan cheese and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The cheese will gently melt from the residual heat, adding that signature salty, nutty taste, while the lemon balances out the richness and rounds everything out beautifully.

Step 6: Serve with Red Pepper Flakes (If You Dare!)

For the final flourish, scatter the red pepper flakes over the top if you enjoy a pop of heat. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts right away—they’re best when the cheese is melty and the edges are still crisp!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

For that little something extra, don’t be shy about the garnishes. A fresh grating of Parmesan right before serving makes these sprouts look and smell irresistible. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh burst of color that pops beautifully against the golden sprouts, and a final squeeze of lemon juice or a scattering of flaky sea salt can really bring the flavors alive.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are truly versatile, pairing well with both casual weeknight mains and holiday feasts. They shine next to roasted chicken, pan-seared steak, or a juicy pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian meal, they’re fantastic with creamy polenta or a hearty grain salad. Their bold flavors also stand up to rich mains, so don’t be afraid to serve them with your favorite comfort food classics.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in the mood to mix things up, try skewering the roasted Brussels sprouts for party appetizers or stacking them on top of a platter of zesty quinoa. You can also toss them with toasted nuts, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a festive twist. Basically, let your creativity run wild—these little sprouts easily adapt to new flavors and fun presentations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, simply let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days, maintaining much of their flavor and texture when stored properly.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze your leftovers if you like. Place cooled sprouts in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent them from sticking together. They’ll keep for a month, though keep in mind the texture will be a little softer once thawed.

Reheating

To recapture that roasted crispness, spread your refrigerated or thawed Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts on a baking sheet and reheat in a 400°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but the oven is your best bet for reviving their wonderful crunchy edges.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh is ideal for achieving the best caramelization, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen Brussels sprouts can work. Thaw and dry them thoroughly first to prevent sogginess, then follow the recipe steps as usual.

What’s the best way to make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

Spread your Brussels sprouts in a single, uncrowded layer with the cut side down. Roasting at a high temperature and not overloading the pan are key tricks for achieving those craveable crispy edges.

Can I make this dish dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap in your favorite plant-based Parmesan alternative or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy. The results are delicious and satisfying, even without traditional cheese.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To avoid burnt garlic, toss it well with the olive oil to coat each piece and keep an eye on your sprouts towards the end of roasting. If you like, add the garlic partway through the roasting time for a softer, less toasted punch.

Is there a way to add some protein to this recipe?

You can toss in some cooked, crumbled bacon or top the dish with crispy chickpeas right before serving. Both options add protein and an extra layer of texture that pairs wonderfully with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t fallen for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts yet, this recipe is sure to win you over. There’s something special about the contrast of crispy edges, garlicky aroma, and Parmesan magic. Give this recipe a try—I promise, it just might become your go-to way to enjoy Brussels sprouts for any occasion!

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