Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

Smashed Brussels Sprouts take this classic vegetable to a whole new level, turning them into a crispy, flavorful dish that’s impossible to resist. Think Brussels sprouts, but elevated—roasted until they’re perfectly crisp on the outside, then gently smashed and seasoned with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. The result is a savory, crunchy bite that’s sure to win over even the toughest critics.

I first tried making these for a holiday dinner, and they were an instant hit! Guests who usually bypassed Brussels sprouts couldn’t stop reaching for more. The combination of crispy edges and tender centers creates a delightful texture, while the garlic and Parmesan add a punch of flavor that keeps you coming back for another bite.

These smashed sprouts are incredibly versatile. They’re a perfect side dish to complement any main course, or you can serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce for a unique snack. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare—just boil the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender, smash them with the back of a spoon, season, and roast to crispy perfection.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a casual weeknight dinner, or simply craving something healthy yet satisfying, Smashed Brussels Sprouts are a game-changer. Get ready to transform this humble vegetable into a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why you’ll enjoy these Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

• Crispy Texture: These Brussels sprouts become delightfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples to create an incredibly flavorful dish without fuss.
• Perfect Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of main courses, adding a nutritious and tasty element to your meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy edges and savory flavor make it a great way to get kids to enjoy Brussels sprouts.
• Easy to Prepare: Requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a convenient addition to any meal.
• Customizable Flavor: Season them to your liking with different spices, herbs, or cheese for a unique twist.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, providing a delicious way to add more greens to your diet.
• Great for Entertaining: A crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Addictive Taste: The combination of caramelized edges and a hint of salt makes these Brussels sprouts irresistible.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Fiber: 5g, Sugars: 2g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Brussels Sprouts: The star ingredient, full of nutrients and flavor.
• Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps crisp up the sprouts.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

Boil the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Boil Brussels Sprouts: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Brussels sprouts and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.

Smash and Season

1. Drain and Cool: Drain the Brussels sprouts and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Smash the Sprouts: Place the sprouts on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently flatten each sprout.
3. Add Seasonings: Drizzle the smashed Brussels sprouts with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Bake Until Crispy

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and crispy.
2. Add Parmesan: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the sprouts with Parmesan cheese.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Enjoy your Smashed Brussels Sprouts with the following serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or pork for a balanced meal that adds a touch of crispiness.
• With Dipping Sauces: Pair with aioli, spicy mustard, or garlic yogurt dip for extra flavor and a fun way to enjoy them.
• Topped with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for a cheesy twist.
• With a Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts for a tangy, sweet contrast.
• In a Salad: Add to a warm salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and toasted nuts for an elevated dish.
• With a Squeeze of Lemon: Serve with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor and add brightness.
• As a Snack: Enjoy as a healthy, crispy snack, similar to chips, ideal for parties or movie nights.
• In a Grain Bowl: Include them in a grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and a poached egg for a wholesome meal.
• Topped with Crumbled Bacon: Add crumbled turkey bacon on top for extra flavor and a bit of indulgence.
• With Spices or Herbs: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or spices like smoked paprika for a burst of color and taste.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make the best Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts will hold up better during smashing and roasting, giving a crispier texture.
• Parboil First: Boil the Brussels sprouts briefly before smashing to soften them, making it easier to achieve a flat, even smash.
• Dry Thoroughly: Pat the sprouts dry after boiling to ensure they roast up crispy rather than steaming in the oven.
• Season Generously: Add salt, pepper, and your favorite spices liberally to enhance the flavor. Garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan cheese work well.
• Use a Glass or Mug to Smash: A flat-bottomed glass or mug can be ideal for smashing evenly without tearing the sprouts apart.
• Flip Halfway Through Baking: Turn the sprouts halfway through the roasting time to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
• Add Cheese at the End: For a cheesy topping, sprinkle Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar in the last few minutes of roasting for a golden, melty finish.
• Drizzle with a Finishing Sauce: Enhance the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, lemon juice, or even a garlic aioli just before serving.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Make Extra for Leftovers: Smashed Brussels sprouts reheat well and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a tasty side dish the next day.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations to customize your Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

• Cheesy Garlic Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Add minced garlic and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before baking for a crispy, cheesy finish.
• Balsamic-Glazed Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the sprouts right after roasting for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
• Buffalo Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Toss the smashed sprouts in buffalo sauce before roasting, then serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Spicy Sriracha Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Add a blend of sriracha, honey, and lime juice for a spicy, sweet, and zesty kick.
• Bacon-Wrapped Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Wrap each smashed sprout with a half slice of turkey bacon before roasting for a smoky, savory twist.
• Lemon Herb Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle with fresh lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme for a bright and aromatic touch.
• Honey Mustard Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard over the sprouts before baking to add a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Crispy Panko-Crusted Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Coat with seasoned panko breadcrumbs and a little olive oil for an extra crispy texture.
• Truffle Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with truffle oil after roasting and add a sprinkle of sea salt and Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
• Asian-Inspired Smashed Brussels Sprouts: Toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a savory umami flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Store your Smashed Brussels Sprouts properly for freshness:

• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Special Equipment

Have these tools ready to prepare Smashed Brussels Sprouts:

• Large Pot: For boiling the Brussels sprouts until tender, allowing for even cooking and easy transfer to a baking sheet.
• Colander: To drain the boiled Brussels sprouts thoroughly before smashing them, ensuring they don’t retain excess water.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy surface for roasting the smashed sprouts, helping them achieve a crispy, golden exterior in the oven.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup after roasting.
• Potato Masher or Fork: Essential for gently smashing the cooked Brussels sprouts to your desired thickness without mashing them into a puree.
• Olive Oil Dispenser: Allows for easy drizzling of olive oil over the sprouts, ensuring even coverage for roasting.
• Seasoning Grinder: For freshly grinding sea salt, black pepper, or other spices, enhancing the flavors of the dish with fresher aromas.
• Mixing Bowl: To toss the smashed Brussels sprouts with seasonings and oil before roasting, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Heat-Resistant Spatula: Useful for flipping the Brussels sprouts during roasting, ensuring even browning on all sides.
• Serving Platter: To present the finished smashed Brussels sprouts beautifully, enhancing the dining experience with an attractive display.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before boiling.
2. Do I have to boil the Brussels sprouts first?
   Boiling ensures the sprouts are tender enough to smash.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Can I reheat smashed Brussels sprouts?
   Yes, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.
6. What if my Brussels sprouts are too large?
   Cut them in half before boiling to ensure even cooking.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, mix with smashed potatoes or carrots for a mixed veggie dish.
8. What herbs work best for garnish?
   Fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme add great flavor.
9. Can I use another type of cheese?
   Yes, cheddar, Asiago, or Gruyère are good options.
10. How do I make them extra crispy?
    Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

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Conclusion

These Smashed Brussels Sprouts are a delightful and healthy way to enjoy a classic vegetable. With their crispy edges, cheesy goodness, and flavorful seasonings, they bring a unique twist to traditional Brussels sprouts, making them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for a simple weeknight meal or as a standout side dish at a festive holiday dinner, these sprouts are sure to impress.

The easy preparation and customization options allow you to tailor them to your taste. Whether you prefer them drizzled with a balsamic glaze, topped with crispy bacon, or sprinkled with your favorite herbs, these smashed sprouts are versatile enough to complement any meal.

So why not give them a try? I can’t wait to see how your Smashed Brussels Sprouts turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy the deliciousness!