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Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Brussels Sprouts

CRISPY PARMESAN-CRUSTED ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS

These perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts boast a tender interior and a savory, crunchy Parmesan crust, making them the ultimate easy side dish. The key to the crust is using finely grated cheese and maximizing contact with the hot pan.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Must be finely grated, not shredded, for the best crust.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a slight kick

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Large Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper or Foil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, heavy-duty baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step is crucial to prevent the Parmesan from sticking and burning directly onto the pan.
  2. Coat with Oil: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts and the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss thoroughly using your hands or a large spoon until every piece is lightly coated with oil.
  3. Season the Sprouts: Add the garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper (and red pepper flakes, if using) to the bowl. Toss again until the seasonings are evenly distributed across the sprouts.
  4. Add the Parmesan: Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned sprouts. Toss gently one last time, ensuring the cheese adheres uniformly to the oil on the surface of the sprouts. Do not overmix at this stage; you want the cheese to sit on the surface.
  5. Arrange for Crisping: Spread the Brussels sprouts onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. It is critically important that the sprouts do not overlap or crowd the pan, as this will steam them instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
  6. Maximize Crust: As you arrange them, ensure that as many sprouts as possible are placed with their flat, cut sides facing directly down onto the baking sheet. This maximizes the surface area contact, leading to a crispier, golden Parmesan crust.
  7. Initial Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes.
  8. Flip and Finish: After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the oven. Using a sturdy metal spatula, gently flip the sprouts to expose new surfaces to the heat. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 8 to 12 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender in the center, the outer leaves are nicely charred, and the Parmesan crust on the bottom is deeply golden brown and crunchy. Serve immediately.

Notes

For maximum crispness, you must use finely grated (like powder consistency) Parmesan cheese. Shredded cheese will melt too quickly and not form a solid crust. The Parmesan crust loses some of its crispness as it cools, so immediate serving is highly recommended for the best texture.