Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible 🥦🧀✨
Table of contents
1. Introduction

Elevate your side dish game with Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, a simple yet irresistible recipe that combines crispy roasted sprouts with nutty Parmesan cheese and bold seasonings. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights—it’s easy to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast, pairing them with grilled proteins, or enjoying them as a standalone snack, these Brussels sprouts are sure to become a family favorite.
To learn why Brussels sprouts are a nutrient-packed superfood, visit this link. For tips on mastering the art of roasting vegetables, explore our guide on perfectly roasted veggies here.
2. What Are Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts take this humble vegetable to new heights by combining crispy exteriors, tender interiors, and a savory Parmesan coating that adds richness without overpowering the natural flavors of the sprouts. Enhanced with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, they strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. Their versatility makes them ideal for pairing with roasted meats, grilled proteins, or even serving as a standalone appetizer or snack.
For more ideas on roasted vegetable dishes, browse our collection of easy vegetable sides here.
3. Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)
To create these mouthwatering Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, gather the following ingredients:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
These carefully selected ingredients ensure your Brussels sprouts will be both crispy and flavorful. For more ingredient ideas, explore our guide on herb-infused recipes here.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the ends of 1 ½ lbs of Brussels sprouts, remove any loose or yellowed leaves, and cut them in half. Rinse under cold water and pat dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Toss the sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut-side down, to maximize caramelization. For prep tips, visit our guide on roasting techniques here.
Roasting the Sprouts

Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before adding the seasoning. For roasting advice, explore our resource on quick weeknight sides here.
Adding the Parmesan and Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the roasted sprouts and toss gently to coat. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes to allow the Parmesan to melt slightly and adhere to the sprouts. For seasoning inspiration, browse our collection of flavorful recipes here.
Finishing Touches

Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor. For presentation ideas, explore our guide on holiday side dishes here.
5. Customizing Your Brussels Sprouts
To make your Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts truly unique, consider these customizations:
- Flavor Variations: Swap garlic for shallots or onion powder for a milder flavor.
- Spice Blends: Experiment with smoked paprika, cayenne, or Cajun seasoning for a kick.
- Toppings: Add crumbled bacon, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra indulgence.
- Healthier Option: Use less oil and roast at a slightly lower temperature for a lighter version.
These tweaks ensure the recipe suits diverse tastes and dietary needs. For more customization ideas, check out our easy recipe swaps here.
6. Serving Suggestions

These Brussels sprouts shine when paired with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled salmon for a complete meal. Serve alongside other roasted veggies like carrots, potatoes, or asparagus for a hearty side dish. They also make a great party appetizer with dipping sauces like aioli, ranch, or tzatziki. For more pairing ideas, browse our collection of family-friendly meals here.
7. Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly adaptable:
- Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all seasonings (like spice blends) are certified gluten-free if needed.
- Vegetable Substitutes: Swap Brussels sprouts for cauliflower florets or broccoli for a different twist.
These variations ensure everyone can enjoy the dish. For more substitution ideas, check out our healthy swaps here.
8. Nutritional Information
Each serving of Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts contains approximately 120 calories. Here’s the macronutrient breakdown per serving:
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fats: 8g
- Proteins: 5g
Please note these values may vary slightly based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Enjoy responsibly!
9. FAQs Section
Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, roast the sprouts up to a day in advance and reheat in the oven before serving. Reheating restores their crispiness better than microwaving.
Q: Why aren’t my Brussels sprouts crispy?
If your sprouts aren’t crispy, ensure they’re dry before roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan. Proper spacing allows for air circulation, which promotes caramelization.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh ones?
Yes, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before roasting. However, fresh sprouts yield better texture and crispiness.
Q: Can I air fry these Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispiness. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model.
10. Conclusion
Making Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a simple yet rewarding way to elevate your side dish game with crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious results. With their versatility, endless customization options, and crowd-pleasing flavor, these sprouts are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your own twists, this dish promises to delight everyone who tries it.
We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #ParmesanBrusselsSprouts and tag us for a chance to be featured. Have feedback or questions? Leave a comment below—we’re here to help! For more easy side dish recipes, explore our collection of comfort food classics here. Happy cooking! 🥦🧀✨
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Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with these Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly cheesy. A crowd-pleaser for any meal! 🍴🌞
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh herbs)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preparing the Brussels Sprouts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose or yellowed leaves, and cut them in half. Rinse under cold water and pat dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut-side down, to maximize caramelization.
- Roasting the Sprouts: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Adding the Parmesan and Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, dried herbs, and grated Parmesan. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the roasted sprouts and toss gently to coat. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes to allow the Parmesan to melt slightly and adhere to the sprouts.
- Finishing Touches: Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Gluten-free by default, but ensure all seasonings (like spice blends) are certified gluten-free if needed.
- Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4th of the recipe)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg