Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a scrumptious side dish that will steal the show at your next family dinner, then you’ve come to the right place! These Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are not only easy to whip up, but they also bring a delightful crunch and savory flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Trust me, once you try these crispy delights, they’ll be in high rotation on your dinner table!

Just imagine serving these delicious Brussels sprouts alongside your favorite protein – they pair beautifully with chicken, steak, or even grilled fish. Plus, they’re low carb and keto-friendly, making them a great choice for anyone watching their diet. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can have a tasty side dish ready to impress.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy texture and cheesy flavor. It’s a great way to introduce veggies into your meals!
• Versatile Pairing: These Brussels sprouts complement almost any main dish. They’re perfect for casual dinners or festive occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and bake them just before serving, saving you precious moments during busy mealtimes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that your Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but healthy too! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3-4 cups brussels sprouts (see notes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Delight: Substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, before baking for an aromatic twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with some toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispiness we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the bottoms of the brussels sprouts and remove any damaged leaves. Give them a good rinse under running water. Next, steam them until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). If you’re using frozen sprouts, just follow the package instructions. Drain and let them cool in a colander for a few minutes—this step helps ensure they roast rather than steam later on.

Step 3: Smash and Season

In a large bowl, toss the cooled brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on your prepared baking sheet. Now comes the fun part! Use the bottom of a cup to gently smash each sprout into flat patties—this increases their surface area for maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the smashed sprouts. This cheesy layer will melt beautifully while adding an irresistible flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Crispy

Place your baking sheet in the center of the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for that deep golden-brown color on top and crispy edges all around.

And there you have it—deliciously crispy smashed brussels sprouts that are sure to delight! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Creating the perfect crispy smashed Brussels sprouts is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts will give you a better texture and taste. Look for firm, green sprouts without any yellow leaves or blemishes.
• Steam, Don’t Boil: Steaming the Brussels sprouts keeps them tender while preventing excess water from making them soggy. This ensures a nice crisp when roasted.
• Use High Heat: Roasting at 450 degrees Fahrenheit allows for that perfect crispy exterior. The high temperature caramelizes the edges beautifully, enhancing the flavor.
• Smash Them Well: When smashing, aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch. This gives enough surface area to crisp up nicely while still keeping some of that tender interior.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Giving each sprout enough space on the baking sheet allows them to roast evenly and crisp up instead of steaming each other.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Serving your crispy smashed Brussels sprouts can be as fun as preparing them! Here are some ideas to help you present this delectable side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A handful of chopped parsley or chives can brighten the dish visually and add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad with veggies and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of Brussels sprouts, making your meal even more nutritious.
• Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy, seasoned chicken thighs complement the crispy texture of the sprouts, creating a satisfying balance on your plate.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, garlic mashed cauliflower brings comfort food vibes while keeping it healthy.
• Grilled Salmon: The flaky texture and rich taste of salmon offer a delightful contrast to the crunchy Brussels sprouts, making for an elegant yet simple dinner option.

These serving suggestions will not only elevate your meal but also impress your family and friends with your culinary creativity! Enjoy exploring these combinations!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze these smashed sprouts.
• Let them cool completely and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Use within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts that might help you out!

Can I use other seasonings for my Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian herbs to add your personal touch.

How do I ensure my Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure to spread the sprouts out evenly on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. The higher temperature also helps achieve that delightful crunch!

What can I serve with Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes such as grilled chicken, steak, or even fish. They also make a great addition to any holiday meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! Their delightful crunch and savory flavor make them a standout side dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; it’s simple, quick, and oh-so-satisfying. Happy cooking!