Description
This recipe for Smashed Brussels Sprouts offers a delicious and crispy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Boiled briefly to tenderize, then smashed and baked with olive or canola oil, seasoned with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and topped with shredded parmesan cheese for a flavorful finish. Perfect as a side dish or a snack with a satisfying crunchy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
Seasonings & Toppings
- 2 tablespoons canola oil or olive oil
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil Water: Heat a large pot filled with at least 6 cups of salted water over high heat. Bring it to a rolling boil to prepare for cooking the Brussels sprouts.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 425 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready for baking the Brussels sprouts later.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: While the water heats, wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, trim off the stem ends, and remove any loose or wilted outer leaves.
- Cook Brussels Sprouts: Boil the prepared Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes if they are small to medium-sized, or 7 minutes for large ones, until tender but still firm. Then drain them well using a strainer.
- Smash Brussels Sprouts: Arrange the drained Brussels sprouts on one or two half-sheet pans lined with parchment paper. Use a heavy glass or mug to gently smash each sprout flat to increase surface area for crisping.
- Season and Add Cheese: Toss the smashed Brussels sprouts evenly with the oil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over them evenly.
- Bake Until Crispy: Place the sheet pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are crispy, golden, and caramelized on the edges.
Notes
- Boiling before baking softens the sprouts and reduces baking time.
- Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and promotes easy cleanup.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.
- Canola or olive oil can be used interchangeably depending on preference.
