If you love delicious sides that wow your taste buds, you’re in for a treat! These Crispy Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts combine rich butter, fresh garlic, and a hint of spice to create a dish that transforms any meal. Perfectly roasted and topped with cheese, they satisfy both cravings for comfort and flavor. Get ready to elevate your dinner table with this simple recipe that everyone will adore!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnishes
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. Their unique taste shines when you roast them. I use fresh, firm sprouts for the best flavor. If they look sad or wilted, they won’t taste good.
Unsalted butter adds richness. It helps the garlic and seasonings stick to the sprouts. I love using fresh garlic because it gives a strong, bold taste. It browns as it cooks, adding a lovely aroma.
For seasonings, sea salt enhances the flavor. Black pepper adds a slight kick. If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes. They give a nice spicy twist.
Garnishing with Parmesan cheese is a must. It melts perfectly onto the hot sprouts. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. It makes the dish look inviting and lively.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for roasting the sprouts to crispiness.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
First, wash the Brussels sprouts under running water. This helps remove dirt. Next, trim any dry ends. Then, slice each sprout in half lengthwise. Halving them ensures even cooking.
Make Garlic Butter Mixture
In a large bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s just melted and not browned. After that, add minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want spice. Mix it well.
Coat and Arrange
Carefully add the halved Brussels sprouts to the garlic butter mixture. Toss them until every sprout is coated. Now, spread the coated sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step helps them get crispy.
Roasting Process
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, toss the sprouts again for even cooking. You want them crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Final Touches
When the Brussels sprouts are done, take them out of the oven. Quickly sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top while they’re hot. The cheese will melt slightly. Finally, add chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispiness
To get those Brussels sprouts nice and crispy, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps the hot air flow around each sprout. If they are too close together, they will steam instead of crisp up. Halfway through roasting, toss the sprouts. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy all around.
Choosing Brussels Sprouts
Look for bright green sprouts with tight leaves. Avoid any that have yellow or brown spots. Fresh sprouts feel firm and heavy. The size matters too; smaller sprouts cook quicker and taste sweeter. When you pick quality sprouts, your dish will shine.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your Brussels sprouts in a rustic bowl or on a wooden platter for an inviting look. For added flavor, drizzle leftover garlic butter from the baking sheet over the sprouts. This not only enhances taste but also makes your dish visually appealing. A sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley on top adds color and a gourmet touch.
Variations
Adjusting Seasonings
You can change the flavor of your Crispy Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts with ease. If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. This gives your dish a spicy kick that makes it exciting. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs add depth and richness to the dish. Just remember, start with a little and taste as you go.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Want to try something new? Use an air fryer! It cooks Brussels sprouts quickly and makes them crispier. Just toss them in the garlic butter mixture and place them in the air fryer. Cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway to get an even cook.
If you prefer stovetop cooking, sautéing is a great option. Heat some butter in a large pan. Add the coated Brussels sprouts and cook on medium heat. Stir them often until they turn brown and crispy. This method gives you control over the cooking process and lets you keep an eye on the sprouts.
Cheese Alternatives
If you want a vegan dish, skip the cheese or use a vegan substitute. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also try vegan Parmesan cheese for a similar taste. If you want to stick with dairy, explore different cheese types. Goat cheese or feta can add a tangy twist. Creamy cheeses like gouda can enhance the flavor as well.
Storage Info
Refrigerator Storage
To store your crispy garlic butter Brussels sprouts, first let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and helps avoid moisture buildup. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember, the longer they sit, the less crispy they become.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to eat leftovers, you have two good options: the microwave or the oven. The microwave is quick but may make the sprouts soft. The oven keeps them crispier. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This way, they stay crunchy and tasty.
Freezing Information
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the Brussels sprouts. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. First, thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, place them in warm water for about 15 minutes. After thawing, drain them well. Frozen sprouts may have extra moisture, so dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel. This step helps them crisp up in the oven. Follow the same cooking method as fresh sprouts. You may need to adjust the roasting time slightly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach the perfect crispness.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, swap the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter. There are many great options on the market. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without using dairy. This way, you can enjoy the crispy garlic butter Brussels sprouts while keeping them plant-based. The taste will still be rich and satisfying. You won’t miss the dairy at all!
What to serve with Crispy Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts?
Crispy garlic butter Brussels sprouts make a great side dish. They pair well with roasted chicken or grilled fish. You can also serve them with a hearty grain dish, like quinoa or farro. For a vegetarian option, try them alongside a rich mushroom risotto. The flavors of the sprouts balance beautifully with these dishes. They add a nice crunch and depth to your meal. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover garlic butter over your main dish for added flavor!
In this post, I shared how to make delicious crispy garlic butter Brussels sprouts. I detailed each step, from preheating the oven to roasting and garnishing. You now have a clear guide to enjoy this dish with friends or family. Don’t forget to try the tips for crispy sprouts and variations to suit your taste. With simple ingredients and easy methods, this recipe fits any meal. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t hesitate to explore new flavors!
