Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

Brussels sprouts, those tiny cabbages that have polarized dinner tables for generations, undergo a transformation so radical, they emerge as the star of the culinary show. When adorned with a crispy Parmesan crust, they become irresistible. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a revelation that turns skeptics into devout followers. Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are not merely a dish; they’re a testament to the magic of roasting, a process that caramelizes the edges and imbues every bite with nutty, cheesy goodness.

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the tender, roasted sprouts. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (about 450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare Brussels Sprouts:

In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated.

Mix Coating:

In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix these dry ingredients well.

Coat the Sprouts:

Dip each halved Brussels sprout into the Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating to all sides. Place the coated sprouts cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out evenly.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. The Parmesan cheese should have formed a nice, golden crust.

Serve:

Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Tips:

• For Extra Crispiness: For even more crispiness, you can broil the sprouts for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can add a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is classic, you can also try other hard, flavorful cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different taste profile.

Enjoy your Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts as a tasty and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses!

Variations to Spice Up Your Brussels Sprouts

To spice up your Brussels sprouts and bring new flavors to this classic side dish, consider incorporating additional ingredients or trying some substitutions. Here are several ideas to get you started:

1. Add Nuts for Crunch

• Walnuts, Almonds, or Pecans: Toast and chop some nuts, then sprinkle them on top of the Brussels sprouts before serving. They add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.

2. Incorporate Dried Fruits

• Cranberries or Raisins: For a touch of sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins to the Brussels sprouts after roasting. The warmth will slightly soften them, creating a nice texture contrast.

3. Use Different Cheeses

• Goat Cheese or Feta: Instead of Parmesan, crumble some goat cheese or feta over the roasted Brussels sprouts for a creamy tanginess.
• Smoked Gouda or Mozzarella: For a smokier, meltier experience, sprinkle grated smoked gouda or mozzarella over the sprouts during the last few minutes of baking.

4. Mix in Bacon or Pancetta

• Crispy Bits: Adding crispy, cooked bacon or pancetta bits to the Brussels sprouts before serving infuses them with a savory, smoky flavor.

5. Experiment with Different Seasonings

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbal: Mix in dried or fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage for an aromatic touch.
• Asian Twist: For an Asian-inspired flavor, toss the Brussels sprouts with a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey before roasting. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

6. Add a Balsamic Glaze

• Sweet and Tangy: After roasting, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with a balsamic reduction or glaze. This adds a lovely sweet and tangy flavor that complements the nutty, roasted sprouts.

7. Roast with Other Vegetables

• Variety: Mix Brussels sprouts with other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or butternut squash for a colorful and diverse side dish. Season and roast as usual.

8. Incorporate Citrus

• Lemon or Orange Zest: Add zest from a lemon or orange to the Parmesan mixture for a fresh, citrusy aroma. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the flavors.

9. Make it Creamy

• Cream Sauce: After roasting, toss the Brussels sprouts in a light cream sauce made with garlic and Parmesan for a decadent, creamy side dish.

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crunchy exterior similar to deep-frying but in a healthier way. Here’s how you can adapt the recipe for air fryer cooking:

Ingredients:

Use the same ingredients as the original recipe.

Adjustments for Air Fryer Cooking:

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Unlike an oven, most air fryers take only a few minutes to preheat.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

• Clean, trim, and halve the Brussels sprouts as you would for oven roasting.
• Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure they are evenly coated.

Prepare the Parmesan Mixture:

• In a bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (optional), garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings (such as smoked paprika) to form your crust mixture.

Coat the Sprouts:

• Dip each Brussels sprout half into the Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere the coating. Since you’re using an air fryer, ensure the coating is not too loose to prevent it from blowing off.

Arrange in the Air Fryer:

• Place the coated Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cut side down. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cooking:

• Cook for about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning.
• The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the Brussels sprouts, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes.

Finish and Serve:

• The Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
• If desired, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Tips for Air Fryer Cooking:

• No Need to Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each sprout has enough space for the air to circulate, achieving a crispy texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Since the air fryer enhances the flavor and crispiness, you might want to adjust the amount of salt and seasonings to taste.
• Check Frequently: Air fryers can cook food more quickly than conventional ovens, so start checking for doneness a bit earlier than you might otherwise.

Using the air fryer for Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts not only speeds up the cooking process but also reduces the need for oil, making this delicious side dish even healthier. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts with less guilt!

Serving Suggestions

Homemade Crack Chicken

The savory, creamy, and slightly salty flavors of crack chicken complement the crispy, nutty taste of the Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts. The contrast between the creamy chicken and the crunchy sprouts adds an interesting texture dynamic to the meal.

Cosmic Brownies

After enjoying the savory chicken and Brussels sprouts, the Cosmic Brownies serve as a sweet and indulgent end to the meal. The dense, chocolatey dessert provides a satisfying contrast to the savory main course and side, rounding off the dining experience with a touch of sweetness.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To ensure your Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts retain their flavor and crispiness when storing and reheating, follow these best practices:

Storing:

• Cool Before Storing: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make them soggy.
• Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled Brussels sprouts to an airtight container. If you have a large quantity, consider using multiple small containers to avoid stacking them too much, which can cause them to become mushy.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store the container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the Brussels sprouts can last for 3-4 days.
• Freezing Isn’t Ideal: While you can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts, it’s not recommended for this dish. Freezing can alter their texture, making them less appealing upon reheating. If you must freeze them, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This helps maintain their shape and texture as much as possible.

Reheating:

To maintain the crispiness of the Brussels sprouts, reheating them correctly is crucial. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Instead, use one of these methods:

• Oven/Toaster Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Reheat for 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes for extra flavor.
• Air Fryer: The air fryer is excellent for reheating and maintaining crispiness. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer, and reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and warmed through.
• Skillet: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tiny bit of oil or butter to the pan, then add the Brussels sprouts. Stir occasionally, and cook until they’re heated through and regain some of their crispiness. This method works well if you’re reheating a small amount.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid Overcrowding: Whether using an oven, air fryer, or skillet, make sure the Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer with some space between them. Overcrowding can steam them instead of reheating, making them soggy.
• Add Freshness: After reheating, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and add a bit of moisture without making them soggy.

FAQs

• Why did my Brussels sprouts burn in the air fryer? The high-speed circulation of hot air in an air fryer can cause thin leaves to burn quickly. To prevent this, ensure they’re cut into uniform sizes and watch the cooking time closely.
• Why won’t my Brussels sprouts get crispy? The key to crispiness lies in not overcrowding the pan and using enough oil. Each sprout should have room to breathe, allowing the hot air to circulate and crisp up every surface.
• Why do you soak Brussels sprouts before roasting? Soaking helps to remove any residual dirt and can reduce bitterness, ensuring your sprouts are clean and flavorful.
• Do you have to boil Brussels sprouts before frying? Boiling is not necessary, but it can speed up the cooking process and ensure tenderness. If you choose to boil, keep it brief to avoid mushiness.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture, capable of converting even the most fervent skeptics. With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to mastering what could only be described as a culinary delight. Enjoy the crunch, savor the cheese, and let every bite take you on a journey of rediscovery.