Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe

I’ve totally fallen for this smashed Brussels sprouts recipe because it’s the perfect blend of crispy goodness and cheesy delight, making my taste buds do a happy dance. Plus, the easy prep and simple ingredients mean I can whip these up whenever I’m in the mood for a cozy, yet sophisticated side dish that impresses everyone at the table!

My absolute favorite thing to do is to take Brussels sprouts and make them into a delicious dish. My principle for these particular tiny cabbages is the same as for any other vegetable: Cook it wrong, and it will hurt; cook it right, and it will do you good—by tasting great and being incredibly nutritious.

That’s what my Smashed Brussels Sprouts are all about. One pound of sprouts combines with two tablespoons of olive oil (I use peanut oil in my wok) and a little hint of garlic powder (or actual sautéed garlic, which I think ramps up the flavor) for an irresistible and simply savory side dish.

Ingredients

Brussels sprouts:
These mini cabbages are low-calorie, antioxidant-rich, and packed with fiber and vitamins.

Olive oil:
Fat that is heart-healthy, enhances flavor, and provides beneficial monounsaturated fats for cardiovascular health.

Garlic powder:
Contributes rich, delicate flavors and allows for the presentation of antioxidant components with anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties.

Parmesan cheese:
It provides a salty, nutty taste and a rich source of protein and calcium, making the dish even more delicious.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your oven temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and prepare a baking sheet by either lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray.

2. Eliminate the stems from the Brussels sprouts and take off any outer leaves that look yellowing. Then wash the sprouts in cold water.

3. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a small handful of salt and the Brussels sprouts. Boil them for about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender.

4. Remove excess moisture from the Brussels sprouts by draining them and then laying them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. They should not be in a tethered or tight situation; instead, they should be laid out in a single layer on the towels. Gently, pat the Brussels sprouts dry.

5. The prepared baking sheet is where the Brussels sprouts belong. Each sprout should be gently smashed to about 1/2-inch thickness using a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher.

6. Ensure the smashed Brussels sprouts are well-coated with olive oil. Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed Brussels sprouts.

7. In a tiny dish, combine the powdered garlic, salt, and black pepper. Evenly dust these seasonings over the Brussels sprouts.

8. Place the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. They should be completely golden brown and crispy on the edges.

9. Take the baking sheet from the oven and scatter the grated Parmesan cheese across the Brussels sprouts. Put them back in the oven for another 5 minutes, ensuring that the cheese becomes as melted and bubbly as it possibly can.

10. Move the Brussels sprouts onto a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over them before they make their way to the dinner table. These smashed sprouts are perfectly crisp and flavored to enjoy as a side dish to almost any entrée.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper or cooking spray
4. Knife
5. Large pot
6. Colander or sieve
7. Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
8. Flat-bottomed glass or potato masher
9. Small dish
10. Measuring spoons
11. Measuring cup
12. Serving platter

FAQ

• Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?Absolutely, it is acceptable to utilize frozen Brussels sprouts. Thaw them fully before proceeding to smash them, and ensure they are well-drained to preclude any excess moisture.
• How can I make the Brussels sprouts even crispier?For an extra 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting, you can use the broiler. Burble them but watch to avoid burning.
• What can I substitute for Parmesan if I’m dairy-free?Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free substitute for Parmesan cheese.
• Can I add other spices or herbs?Certainly! You can absolutely add your favorite spices or herbs. Just like rosemary, thyme, or paprika, as they boost the flavor even more.
• How do I store leftover smashed Brussels sprouts?Leftover food should be stored in a container with an airtight seal in the refrigerator. They will last there for about 3 days. The best way to reheat the food is in the oven.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance?Brussels sprouts can be prepped ahead of time. You can do this by boiling and smashing them. Once done, store them in the fridge. When it is time to serve, roast the sprouts for the best taste and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Olive oil: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute melted butter or avocado oil.
Garlic powder: Replace it with minced fresh garlic or onion powder for a slight shift in flavor.
Salt: Use alternatives such as sea salt or kosher salt.
Black pepper: Substitute with either white pepper or red pepper flakes to achieve a different kind of heat and taste.
Cheese Parmesan: Use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy taste.

Pro Tips

1. Parboil With Flavor When boiling the Brussels sprouts, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a few slices of fresh lemon to the water for a subtle citrusy flavor that complements their taste.

2. Achieve Maximum Crispiness After boiling, ensure the Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dried. Excess moisture will prevent them from crisping up in the oven, so take the time to pat them as dry as possible.

3. Even Smashed Technique When smashing the Brussels sprouts, press them gently and evenly to ensure consistent thickness. This helps them roast uniformly and get crispy edges.

4. Customize Seasonings Feel free to enhance the seasoning mix by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy kick.

5. Cheese Alternatives For a twist, substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or aged Gouda. These cheeses can introduce new and exciting flavors to the dish.