Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but this recipe transforms them into a crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful side dish that even veggie skeptics will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients—Brussels sprouts, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan—you can elevate an everyday vegetable into a restaurant-quality dish.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or just want a healthy snack, these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts deliver a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and nutrition. Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know to master this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside – Roasting at high heat caramelizes the edges while keeping the center perfectly tender.
- Savory, Garlicky, Cheesy Flavor – A combination of roasted garlic and freshly grated parmesan transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a gourmet delight.
- Quick and Easy – Prep in 10 minutes and roast in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, beef, or even pasta.
- Healthy & Low-Carb – Naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, with the option to make it vegan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish:
- 1½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Optional Ingredients:
- Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness
- Drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor
Pro Tip: Using fresh parmesan gives a superior flavor and melting quality compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Tools and Equipment
To make this recipe smooth and easy, you’ll need:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Grater or microplane for parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Slice them in half lengthwise. Place them in a large bowl.
3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning
Add olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss until each sprout is evenly coated.
4. Arrange for Roasting
Spread the sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet. This ensures maximum caramelization and crispiness.
5. Roast
Place the sheet in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch carefully during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.
6. Add Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the sprouts in the final 5 minutes of roasting. Allow it to melt and form a slightly crispy, golden crust.
7. Serve
Transfer to a serving dish. Optional: add lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast!
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Do not overcrowd the pan – Give each sprout space to roast evenly.
- Roast cut-side down – This ensures a golden, caramelized surface.
- Use olive oil instead of butter – Oil helps achieve crispiness, while butter may cause sogginess.
- Add cheese at the end – Prevents parmesan from burning and maintains flavor.
- Thoroughly dry frozen sprouts – If using frozen, pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Optional Variations
- Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or drizzle hot honey post-roast.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
- Garlic Butter Boost: Swap olive oil with garlic-infused butter for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
These roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with:
- Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken – Sweet and spicy with cheesy sprouts
- Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – Double the garlic, double the flavor
- White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers – A hearty and flavorful combo
They can also be added to grain bowls, pasta dishes, or salads for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Note: Adjust based on the exact weight of Brussels sprouts and amount of cheese used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting. The texture won’t be as crispy as fresh, but still delicious.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative. Use olive oil or vegan butter for roasting.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Prep the Brussels sprouts and seasoning ahead of time. Roast just before serving for best texture.
Are these Brussels sprouts keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Low in carbs and high in fiber, these sprouts fit perfectly into a keto diet.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which makes them soggy.
Why Roasting Brussels Sprouts Works Best
Roasting transforms Brussels sprouts from slightly bitter to nutty, buttery, and caramelized. The high heat evaporates moisture, creating crispy edges while maintaining a tender interior. Paired with garlic and parmesan, it’s an easy way to turn a simple vegetable into a crowd-pleasing dish.
Pairing Wine or Beverages
- White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the garlic and parmesan.
- Beer: Light ales or pilsners balance the roasted, cheesy flavor.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or a lightly sweet iced tea pairs well.
Advanced Tips for Flavor Boost
- Roast garlic separately: For a smoother, sweeter garlic flavor.
- Use fresh herbs: Thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant note.
- Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add crunch and flavor.
- Finish with acidity: A squeeze of lemon or drizzle of balsamic glaze balances richness.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftovers
- Toss with quinoa or farro for a hearty grain bowl.
- Mix into scrambled eggs or frittatas for breakfast.
- Add to pasta dishes with cream or tomato sauces.
- Use as a salad topping for crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the cut-side down method – Reduces crispiness.
- Adding cheese too early – Leads to burnt parmesan.
- Crowding the pan – Creates steaming instead of roasting.
- Over-roasting – Can make sprouts bitter.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
- High in Fiber: Supports digestion and gut health.
- Rich in Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin C, K, and folate.
- Antioxidants: Protects against oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Low in Calories: Perfect for healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike boiled or steamed Brussels sprouts, roasting enhances natural sweetness and creates a crunchy, caramelized exterior. The combination of garlic and parmesan provides umami-rich flavor that transforms an ordinary vegetable into a main attraction on the plate.
This recipe is:
- Quick and easy
- Budget-friendly
- Kid- and adult-approved
- Fully customizable
Fun Presentation Ideas
- Serve on a platter with parmesan curls on top.
- Add a pop of color with pomegranate seeds or fresh parsley.
- Make individual servings in mini ramekins for holiday dinners.
Presentation makes a difference—crispy, golden Brussels sprouts look as good as they taste!
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a perfect combination of crispiness, cheesiness, and garlicky goodness. Whether it’s a weeknight meal, a holiday side dish, or a snack to impress friends, this recipe delivers every single time.
Take the humble Brussels sprout and elevate it into a dish that disappears from the plate faster than you can say “cheesy, crispy goodness.”
Don’t forget to experiment with variations, pairings, and leftovers to make it your own. Once you try this recipe, it may become your go-to veggie side forever.
