
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts have become my secret weapon for making weeknight dinners feel special This recipe infuses humble Brussels sprouts with garlicky depth and that crispy Parmesan finish that no one can resist
I started making these to convince my family Brussels sprouts were delicious My kids especially request them for every holiday now
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts: fresh and firm for the best roasting texture sliced in half to maximize crisp edges
- Garlic: choose large cloves for more robust flavor mince fine so it roasts evenly
- Olive oil: extra virgin brings richness and helps sprouts brown
- Parmesan cheese: use freshly grated for a creamy melt and nutty finish
- Salt and pepper: sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper balance flavors and highlight the cheesy notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim the bases and remove outer leaves from each Brussels sprout Slice them in half through the root for even cooking and crisp cut edges
- Season Everything:
- Combine Brussels sprouts with minced garlic olive oil salt and pepper in a large bowl Toss until each piece feels slick and coated which helps with caramelization
- Arrange and Roast:
- Spread the sprouts cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment Make sure they sit in a single layer with space around each This step is the key to browning
- First Roast:
- Place in the oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Roast about twenty to twenty five minutes Brussels sprouts should be deep golden with crisped edges For larger sprouts give a few more minutes
- Add Parmesan and Finish:
- Take out the baking sheet Sprinkle all sprouts generously with grated Parmesan Place back in the oven for five more minutes until cheese bubbles and melts
- Serve Warm:
- Transfer immediately to a serving dish The Brussels sprouts will be crispy hot and savory

The Parmesan cheese is my favorite part because it forms irresistible golden patches My family always squabbles over those especially at holiday dinners It is the one vegetable dish that disappears entirely from the table
Storage Tips
Store leftover Brussels sprouts chilled in an airtight container They stay good for about three days To reheat arrange on a baking sheet and crisp in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for ten minutes This maintains texture much better than microwaving
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for Parmesan if you have them
Add a dash of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes with the olive oil for a touch of heat
If you are dairy free a sprinkle of nutritional yeast brings a similar savory hit
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Brussels sprouts as a festive holiday side or toss them into a grain bowl for lunch
Stir leftovers into an omelet for a satisfying breakfast
They also make a great topping for pizza adding pops of flavor and crunch

Cultural and Historical Context
Brussels sprouts hail from the Mediterranean but rose to fame on Belgian tables Growing up my family did not love them until we discovered roasting Roasting brings out their sweetness and tames the bitterness Now this dish is a family tradition at Thanksgiving and winter gatherings
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep Brussels sprouts crispy in the oven?
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer, cut-side down. Roasting at high temperature (400°F) helps them become golden and crisp. Avoid crowding the pan for best texture.
- → Can fresh garlic be substituted with garlic powder?
Yes, you may use garlic powder in place of fresh garlic. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- → What other cheeses work well in this dish?
Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar sharpness, or a blend of hard Italian cheeses for variety.
- → Is it necessary to return sprouts to the oven after adding Parmesan?
Yes, briefly returning them to the oven melts the cheese and helps it adhere, creating a savory crust.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to preserve crispness.
- → How can I add more flavor to this side?
Add a dash of lemon juice, chili flakes, or toasted nuts before serving for extra zing and texture.