Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Introduction
Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts are a delicious and easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Roasted until golden and topped with Parmesan, they make a perfect snack or side dish for any meal.

Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
- ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Step 2: Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Near the end, prepare a bowl of ice water.
- Step 3: Drain the Brussels sprouts and immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 4: Once cooled, drain well and pat dry if desired. Place the sprouts on a flat surface.
- Step 5: Using the bottom of a flat object like a sturdy glass or mug, press down on each sprout to flatten it.
- Step 6: Toss the smashed sprouts in a medium bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 7: Spread the sprouts out on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Step 8: Remove from oven and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, make sure to dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly before smashing and roasting.
- Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
Storage
Store any leftover crispy smashed Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without boiling the Brussels sprouts first?
Boiling helps soften the Brussels sprouts so they smash easily and cook evenly. Skipping this step may result in tougher, less crispy sprouts.
What can I use instead of Pink Himalayan Sea Salt?
Regular sea salt or kosher salt can be used as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste if the salt crystals differ in size.
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Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe combines tender, boiled Brussels sprouts with a perfectly crisp roasted exterior. Flavored with garlic and onion powder, seasoned with Himalayan sea salt and black pepper, and finished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a delicious and easy-to-make side that complements any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Oils and Cheeses
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Boil: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to prepare the Brussels sprouts for roasting.
- Simmer Brussels Sprouts: Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook them for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Near the end of cooking, prepare a bowl of ice cold water.
- Shock in Ice Water: Drain the cooked Brussels sprouts and immediately transfer them to the ice water bowl to stop the cooking process and help retain their vibrant color.
- Drain and Dry: Once cooled, drain the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Smash the Sprouts: Place the sprouts on a flat surface and use a sturdy glass or mug to press down on each sprout to flatten it, increasing the surface area for crisping.
- Season: Transfer the smashed Brussels sprouts to a medium bowl and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Himalayan sea salt, and ground black pepper to ensure even coating.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned sprouts out evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To ensure maximum crispiness, make sure the Brussels sprouts are well dried before smashing and roasting.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning with chili flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best crispness retention.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Smashed Brussels Sprouts, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Easy Vegetable Side, Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

