There’s something so satisfying about the smell of garlic roasting in the oven. Whenever I’m in the kitchen and that aroma sweeps through the house, it transports me back to family dinners where good food and laughter filled the air. One of my all-time favorite side dishes that I find myself making time and again is Parmesan and Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Trust me, if you’ve ever had a moment where you thought you didn’t like Brussels sprouts, try this recipe—I guarantee you’ll become a fan!
What I love most about these little green gems is how incredibly easy they are to whip up, yet they deliver a gourmet flair. I remember the first time I made them; my husband was skeptical as he braced himself against the thought of “soggy cabbage balls.” But after one bite, he was reaching for seconds and thirds! Now, they’ve become a staple on our dinner table, and I bet they will be in yours too!
What’s in Parmesan and Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Brussels Sprouts: These bite-sized veggies are packed with nutrients and have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor when roasted. I recommend choosing fresh Brussels sprouts for the best taste—look for ones that are firm with bright green leaves.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential here. It helps achieve that perfectly crispy texture and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must! It caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving your Brussels sprouts a deliciously fragrant kick.
Parmesan Cheese: Ah, the star of the show! You’ll want to use freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts beautifully and forms a lovely crust on the Brussels sprouts.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet effective! These are necessary to enhance all the fantastic flavors in the dish.
Is Parmesan and Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Good for You?
You might be surprised to learn that these roasted treasures are not only delicious but also quite nutritious!
Brussels Sprouts: Packed with vitamins C and K, Brussels sprouts are loaded with antioxidants and may help lower inflammation in the body. Plus, they’re a good source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full longer.
Garlic: Renowned for its health benefits, garlic can boost your immune system, improve heart health, and even add a unique flavor to almost any dish.
Parmesan Cheese: While cheesy goodness certainly adds rich flavor, it does come with some calories, so just a sprinkle goes a long way—besides, a little Parmesan can make any dish feel extra special!
So yes, you can enjoy this dish without the slightest bit of guilt—win-win!
Ingredients
– 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
*Serves: 4 as a side dish*
How to Make Parmesan and Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). I love the sound of the oven preheating as it sets the stage for cooking!
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle in the olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until they are well coated.
3. Add the minced garlic and give them another gentle toss. You want to make sure each sprout is well-seasoned.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they roast evenly and get that coveted crispy texture.
5. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through. When they’re nicely browned and tender, remove them from the oven.
6. While the sprouts are still hot, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and get gooey.
7. Serve immediately and prepare to be showered with compliments!
Sprout-tastic Tips & Variations
If you want to mix things up a bit, feel free to try some variations:
– **Add Some Heat:** A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish a spicy twist.
– **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts just before serving for a sweet and tangy finish that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
– **Mix in Other Veggies:** If you’ve got other veggies lying around, throw in some carrots or sweet potatoes for a colorful and delicious mix.
– **Leftover Magic:** These roasted Brussels sprouts taste amazing as leftovers in salads, or even stirred into pasta.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! It’s become a cherished favorite in my household, and I love hearing how others have adapted it to their taste. So whip out your apron, heat up that oven, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite! Don’t forget to share how yours turned out—I can’t wait to hear about it!