Smashed Brussels Sprouts: The Ultimate Crispy and Cheesy Side Dish

Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Smashed Brussels Sprouts

If you’ve ever found Brussels sprouts a bit too bland or tough, this recipe will change your mind. With just five simple ingredients, these smashed Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with flavor. Topped with Parmesan cheese for a golden, cheesy finish, they’re perfect for a weeknight side dish, a festive meal, or even a healthy snack.

Whether you’ve been a Brussels sprout fan for years or you’re trying to win over a skeptical eater, this crispy and cheesy side is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Crispy, Golden Exterior: The smashing technique increases surface area, giving you the perfect crispy finish.
Cheesy and Savory: Parmesan cheese caramelizes in the oven for a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the Brussels sprouts.
Healthy Yet Addictive: This dish is a great way to enjoy a healthy vegetable without sacrificing taste.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just five ingredients, this recipe delivers gourmet flavors without the fuss.

Ingredients for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

This simple yet delicious recipe requires just a few ingredients:

Brussels sprouts – Fresh sprouts are the key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Olive oil – Helps to crisp up the sprouts while adding flavor. Avocado oil works as a great alternative.
Parmesan cheese – Finely grated parmesan crisps up beautifully and adds a rich, savory flavor.
Garlic powder – Adds depth to the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the sprouts.
Sea salt and cayenne pepper – Balances the flavors with a subtle kick. You can adjust the amount of cayenne for a milder or spicier version.

How to Make Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Boil the Brussels Sprouts

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still firm. Be sure not to overcook them—they should hold their shape once smashed.

Once cooked, drain the sprouts and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat them dry completely with a paper towel.

Tip: The key to getting crispy Brussels sprouts is ensuring they are completely dry before roasting.

Step 2: Season the Sprouts

In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and half of the parmesan cheese. Ensure each sprout is evenly coated for the best flavor.

Step 3: Smash and Arrange

Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a greased baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or jar, gently press down on each sprout until it flattens but still holds together.

Pro Tip: Flatten each sprout evenly to ensure they roast consistently.

Step 4: Add More Parmesan

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the smashed sprouts. This will help create an extra crispy and cheesy topping during baking.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. Bake until the edges are golden and the cheese is crispy.

Watch your oven closely after the 20-minute mark to avoid burning the cheese.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Don’t Overboil: The Brussels sprouts should be just tender enough to smash, not too soft.
Dry Thoroughly: Moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Pat the sprouts dry to ensure a crispy finish.
Skip the Parchment Paper: Directly place the sprouts on a greased baking sheet for maximum crispiness.
Use Finely Grated Parmesan: Finely grated parmesan crisps up more evenly than shredded cheese.
Smash Evenly: Make sure each sprout is evenly flattened and touching the pan for consistent roasting.
Keep an Eye on the Oven: Roasting times can vary, so check the sprouts after 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.

Flavor Variations for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest before serving for a fresh, bright kick.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the roasted sprouts for a sweet-savory contrast.
Bacon: For extra flavor, toss chopped bacon into the mix before roasting.
Mozzarella: Add shredded mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a gooey cheese pull.
Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the salty cheese.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Store in the Fridge: Leftover smashed Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Meal Prep: You can boil and smash the Brussels sprouts in advance, then season and roast them just before serving for the freshest taste.
Reheat: To restore the crispiness, reheat in an air fryer or oven. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the sprouts.
Freeze: You can freeze the roasted sprouts for up to 3 months. However, the texture may change slightly after reheating.

What to Serve with Smashed Brussels Sprouts

These crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts make the perfect side for a variety of dishes:

Grilled or Baked Chicken: The crispiness of the sprouts pairs well with juicy chicken.
Steak or Beef Tenderloin: The rich flavor of steak complements the savory, cheesy Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Pork: This side pairs perfectly with roasted pork or pork chops for a comforting meal.
Seafood: Serve with grilled shrimp, salmon, or cod for a light and flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts on Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Smashed Brussels sprouts are not just a side—they’re a star of the meal. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender center, they make Brussels sprouts a delicious option for even the pickiest eaters. The best part? This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or special occasions.

Ready to make your vegetables shine? Try this Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe today—you’ll never look at sprouts the same way again!