If you have been searching for a dish that transforms humble greens into an irresistible treat, look no further. This Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts like never before. The combination of crispy edges, tender centers, and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion that will make these sprouts the star of your meal. Whether you’re new to Brussels sprouts or a longtime fan, this recipe brings out their best qualities in the most comforting and delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts, adding layers of taste and gorgeous golden color. From aromatic garlic to freshly chopped thyme, everything works in harmony to create a dish you’ll want to serve on repeat.
- 2 lbs. Brussels sprouts (ends trimmed): Fresh sprouts give you the best texture and flavor, and trimming the ends ensures they cook evenly.
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted): This rich fat helps to crisp the sprouts and carry flavors beautifully throughout.
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed): Adds a fragrant, savory depth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh, finely chopped): Thyme’s earthy notes perfectly balance the sweetness of the sprouts and cheese.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors and brings everything together.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste): Just a touch adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Parmesan creates a golden crust and melts into the sprouts for that irresistible savory finish.
How to Make Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Starting with a hot oven is crucial because it allows the Brussels sprouts to crisp up beautifully while baking, giving you that perfect texture contrast between the soft interior and crunchy edges that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 2: Boil and Blanch the Brussels Sprouts
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add your trimmed Brussels sprouts. Boiling them for 10 minutes softens the sprouts enough so they can be smashed without falling apart. After boiling, immediately transfer the sprouts to an ice bath. This chilling step stops the cooking process, preserving their bright green color and fresh flavor. Dry the sprouts thoroughly before moving to the next step; wet sprouts won’t crisp as well!
Step 3: Smash the Sprouts
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and space the Brussels sprouts at least 1 inch apart, cut side up. With a flat-bottomed glass or a sturdy cup, gently press down on each sprout until it is about half an inch tall. This smashing creates more surface area for crisping and allows the butter and Parmesan to cling to every nook and cranny.
Step 4: Coat with Butter and Parmesan
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, crushed garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture evenly over each smashed sprout, making sure every one gets coated. Next, sprinkle ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese over all the sprouts, setting the stage for that perfect golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. You’ll want to watch them carefully as the Parmesan melts and browns, while the edges of the Brussels sprouts crisp up to a delicious crunch. The aroma coming from the oven at this point is absolutely irresistible—trust me, you won’t want to wait long before tasting!
Step 6: Add More Cheese and Herbs
Once the sprouts come out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. If you have extra fresh thyme around, add a few more leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve immediately and prepare yourself for compliments—these Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe creations are simply sensational.
How to Serve Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation as tasty as the flavor, think about adding a few vibrant garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or extra thyme leaves brings a fresh green pop that looks stunning against the golden Parmesan. For the adventurous, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a sweet tang that pairs beautifully with these savory sprouts.
Side Dishes
This Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Imagine serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty pasta dish. Its savory, cheesy goodness complements both meat and vegetarian options, making it a versatile side that can shine in any kitchen.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Brussels sprouts on a rustic wooden platter or a crisp white plate to highlight their golden crust. For a fun twist, try stacking them in a mini tower or bowl to invite your guests to dig right in. Offering a small bowl of extra Parmesan or lemon wedges nearby can also encourage everyone to customize their bites just how they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though with this recipe, that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool them completely before covering to maintain their texture as much as possible.
Freezing
Freezing is an option but not the preferred one for preserving the crispiness. If you must freeze, flash freeze the baked Brussels sprouts on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Use within a month for best results and be prepared for a softer texture upon reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftovers and restore some of their original crispness is in the oven. Preheat to 375°F and spread the sprouts out on a baking sheet. Warm them for about 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that fantastic texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before boiling and smashing. The texture might be slightly less crisp but still delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, and swap the Parmesan cheese for a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast to get that cheesy flavor. The dish will still be bursting with flavor!
How do I get the Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
Spacing the sprouts at least an inch apart on the baking sheet and using a hot oven are key. Also, make sure they are completely dry before smashing and coating with butter. These steps help create maximum crispiness.
Can I prepare these sprouts ahead of time before baking?
You can boil, blanch, smash, and coat the sprouts up to a day ahead and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When ready, just bake as directed. This makes it easier to get dinner on the table quickly.
What can I serve with these Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe for a full meal?
They make a fantastic side to roasted meats like chicken or pork, and also pair well with pasta dishes, grain bowls, or even on toast as a topping for appetizers. Their savory richness balances out so many main courses beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy this often-underappreciated vegetable. It’s cozy yet sophisticated, easy yet impressive, and packed with flavor that sings with every bite. I encourage you to make it soon—once you taste these crispy, cheesy sprouts, you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again!
Print
Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously crispy smashed Brussels sprouts baked to perfection and topped with savory Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make side dish features tender sprouts boiled and blanched before being smashed, coated with garlic butter, and baked until golden and crispy. A perfect accompaniment to any meal, bursting with flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs. Brussels sprouts (ends trimmed)
Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh, finely chopped)
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it ready for baking the Brussels sprouts crispy.
- Boil and Blanch the Brussels Sprouts: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the trimmed Brussels sprouts and cook for 10 minutes until tender. Drain them and immediately place them into an ice bath to halt cooking and keep their vibrant color. Once cooled, remove and dry them thoroughly to ensure crisping during baking.
- Smash the Sprouts: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the Brussels sprouts cut side up, about 1 inch apart. Using a flat-bottomed glass or similar object, press down on each sprout to flatten it to approximately ½ inch thick.
- Coat with Butter and Parmesan: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, crushed garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle or spoon this mixture evenly over each smashed sprout. Sprinkle ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese over all the sprouts.
- Bake in Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts edges are crispy and the Parmesan cheese is lightly browned, indicating a perfect savory crust.
- Add More Cheese and Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the sprouts along with additional fresh thyme if desired, adding a fresh herbal note and extra cheesy flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Drying the Brussels sprouts thoroughly after the ice bath is crucial to achieve maximum crispiness during baking.
- Use a flat-bottomed glass or sturdy spatula to gently but firmly smash the sprouts to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and thyme according to your taste preference.
- If Parmesan is unavailable, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a flavorful vegetarian side.
