Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, look no further than Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts. These roasted veggies are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they pair well with chicken, steak, BBQ, or fish. Their crispy edges and cheesy topping will make them a family favorite!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• How to Make Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
• Step 3: Season and Smash
• Step 4: Add Cheese
• Step 5: Bake
• How to Serve Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• With Grilled Chicken
• As a Side for Steak
• Accompanied by BBQ Ribs
• Alongside Fish Tacos
• With Creamy Pasta Dishes
• How to Perfect Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• Best Side Dishes for Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• Reheating Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?
• Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
• How do I customize my Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?
• Are Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: Enjoy a guilt-free side dish that fits perfectly into low-carb diets.
• Versatile Side Dish: Serve these smashed sprouts alongside various main dishes for an appealing meal.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan adds a rich taste that elevates your dinner.
• Kid-Friendly Veggies: Even picky eaters will love the crispy texture and cheesy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will streamline your preparation and cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pot for steaming
• Colander
• Cup for smashing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting the brussels sprouts evenly.
• Parchment paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking during baking.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water after steaming, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

• 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

How to Make Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the bottoms and remove any bad leaves from your brussels sprouts. Steam them until they are fork-tender, which takes about 15 minutes. If using frozen brussels sprouts, follow package directions. After steaming, set them in a colander to drain and cool for several minutes.

Step 3: Season and Smash

In a large bowl, toss the cooled brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on your prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a cup to smash each sprout into flat patties.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the smashed brussels sprouts.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and the edges of the sprouts are crispy.

Enjoy your Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts as a delightful side dish that brings both health benefits and fantastic flavor to your meals!

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts make a delightful side dish that can complement various meals. Their crispy texture and savory flavor pair well with numerous proteins and sauces, making them incredibly versatile for any dinner table.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of smashed Brussels sprouts, adding protein and flavor to your meal.

As a Side for Steak

• The robust flavors of steak combined with the cheesy, crispy Brussels sprouts create a satisfying meal that’s great for special occasions or family dinners.

Accompanied by BBQ Ribs

• The smoky sweetness of BBQ ribs contrasts beautifully with the savory taste of these roasted sprouts, making for a hearty and enjoyable feast.

Alongside Fish Tacos

• Light and flaky fish tacos served with crispy smashed Brussels sprouts create a refreshing balance of flavors in your meal.

With Creamy Pasta Dishes

• Pairing these sprouts with creamy pasta dishes adds crunch and nutritional value, enhancing your overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Getting the perfect texture and flavor from your crispy smashed Brussels sprouts is essential. Here are some tips to help you achieve that crispy goodness.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts yield better flavor and texture than frozen. Look for firm, bright green sprouts without blemishes.
• Steam Properly: Make sure to steam them until fork-tender—this ensures they cook evenly when roasted.
• Don’t Skip the Oil: A generous amount of olive oil helps achieve that golden brown crispiness on the outside.
• Smash Evenly: Use the bottom of a cup to smash them into flat patties; this ensures even cooking and maximizes surface area for crispiness.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on them in the oven; baking too long can lead to burnt edges instead of crispy perfection.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices like paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for additional flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options that will complement their deliciousness.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crunchiness of the sprouts.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that balances nicely with the savory Brussels sprouts.
3. Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad brings a light, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the cheese in the sprouts.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch and sweetness as an enjoyable addition to your meal.
5. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option provides a fluffy base that pairs well without overpowering the flavors of your main dish.
6. Caprese Salad: The freshness from tomatoes and mozzarella adds vibrancy to your dinner while enhancing overall healthiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts, it’s important to avoid a few common mistakes to ensure the best results.

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts: Steaming them too long can lead to mushy sprouts. Aim for fork-tender, which takes about 15 minutes.
• Not using enough oil: Insufficient olive oil will prevent the sprouts from getting crispy. Make sure to coat them well for optimal crunchiness.
• Skipping the smashing step: Failing to smash the sprouts prevents them from roasting evenly and achieving that desirable crispy texture. Use a cup or flat object to press down firmly.
• Ignoring seasoning: Lack of seasoning can result in bland flavor. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance taste.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 450 degrees for the best roasting outcome. This high heat is crucial for crispiness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

• For freezing, make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but know they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and sauté until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are roasted brussels sprouts that have been steamed and then flattened before baking, resulting in a crunchy texture and delicious flavor.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Just follow package instructions for cooking them prior to smashing and roasting.

How do I customize my Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Feel free to add spices like paprika or chili flakes for extra heat. You can also mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.

Are Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Absolutely! They are low in carbs, keto-friendly, and packed with nutrients while being deliciously satisfying as a side dish.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. Whether served with chicken, steak, or as part of a vegetarian meal, they offer a tasty way to enjoy vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try customizing this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices!