Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts: 5 Irresistible Ways

Posted on December 3, 2025

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts! They’re like the ultimate flavor explosion in every bite. Picture this: you take a perfectly roasted Brussels sprout, smash it down just a little, and then top it with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that melts and gets all golden and crispy. The texture is simply to die for! I discovered this recipe during a cozy dinner with friends, and it was an instant hit. Everyone went back for seconds! Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to side dish. They’re not just delicious; they’re a fun twist on a classic vegetable that’ll make even the pickiest eaters smile. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

1 pound Brussels sprouts: Look for fresh, firm sprouts, as they’ll be the stars of the show!
2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps them crisp up beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of those little green gems.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Just a hint of heat to balance the cheese.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The real showstopper! This cheesy goodness gets all melty and creates a delightful crust.

How to Prepare Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). We want it nice and hot to get that perfect crispiness!
While that’s heating up, take your pound of Brussels sprouts and trim the ends off. Don’t forget to remove any yellow leaves; we want these to be fresh and vibrant!
Next, bring a pot of water to a boil and toss in those Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes. This little step helps them soften just enough before we smash them!
Once they’re done boiling, drain them and let them cool down slightly. You don’t want to burn your fingers when it’s smashing time!
Now, place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Grab a fork and gently smash each sprout down. You’re looking for a nice flat shape but not a total mush—just enough to let that cheese get into every nook and cranny!
Drizzle those smashed beauties with olive oil, and sprinkle on the salt and pepper. Give them a little toss to coat evenly.
Now for the star of the show! Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each sprout. This is where the magic happens!
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown and crispy. Trust me, the aroma will have you drooling!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy, cheesy goodness with a hint of seasoning makes these Brussels sprouts irresistible. They’re the kind of side that everyone will rave about!
Healthy Twist: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a fantastic veggie option, and this recipe keeps them wholesome while adding that cheesy indulgence we all love.
Fun to Make: There’s something satisfying about smashing the sprouts! It’s a fun way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen.
Versatile Side Dish: These crispy delights pair beautifully with just about any main course, from roasted chicken to a hearty vegetarian dish. They’re a crowd-pleaser!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip the boiling: Boiling the Brussels sprouts for just 5 minutes is key! It softens them up just enough to smash without turning them into mush. Trust me, it makes all the difference in texture!
Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to play around with the salt and pepper to suit your taste! If you love a little kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Watch the baking time: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on those sprouts during the last few minutes of baking. You want them golden and crispy, but not burnt—nobody wants that!
Try different cheeses: Parmesan is a classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Cheddar, Gruyère, or even a sprinkle of feta can give these sprouts a fun twist!
Serve them hot: For the best texture and flavor, serve these crispy delights right out of the oven! They’re at their peak deliciousness when they’re fresh and warm.

Variations of Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Cheesy Trio: Mix it up by combining a blend of cheeses! Try adding sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella alongside the Parmesan for a rich, gooey topping.
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky, spicy kick that’ll take these sprouts to the next level!
Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling it over the sprouts. Roasted garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme after baking for a burst of freshness. They not only add flavor but also make for a beautiful presentation!
Nutty Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. They’ll get toasty and add a delightful crunch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of these Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts and have some leftovers? No problem at all! To store them, simply let the sprouts cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep that cheesy goodness intact!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend popping them back in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and regain some of that crispy texture. You might even want to broil them for the last minute or two to get that cheesy crust nice and bubbly again. Trust me, it’s worth the effort to keep them delicious!

Nutritional Information

Okay, let’s chat about the nutrition of these Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts! Just a quick heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and their brands, so consider this as a general guide rather than an exact measurement.

Here’s what you can typically expect per serving:

Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 300mg

These little green gems are not just tasty but also packed with nutrients! They’re a fantastic side to help you sneak in some veggies while enjoying that cheesy goodness. Enjoy every crispy bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts give the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before boiling and smashing. Frozen sprouts might need a little extra time in the oven to get crispy.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No worries at all! You can swap it out for any cheese you have on hand. Cheddar, Gruyère, or even a tangy feta can work beautifully. Just remember, different cheeses will bring different flavors, so experiment and find your favorite!

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts up to the smashing point, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before popping them in the oven so they cook evenly.

How can I make these spicier?
If you’re looking to add a kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper along with the salt and pepper before baking. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the finished sprouts for an extra burst of flavor!

What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve your Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts hot straight from the oven. They make a fantastic side dish for any meal, but I love serving them alongside roasted meats or even as a tasty appetizer. They’re bound to impress your guests!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Crispy and Cheesy Smashed Brussels Sprouts! They’re such a delightful twist on a classic vegetable, and I just know they’ll become a favorite in your home too. If you give them a whirl, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Did you add your own special twist? What did your friends and family think? Please drop a comment below and share your experiences—let’s celebrate our cooking adventures together! Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad or Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans!

For nutritional information on Brussels sprouts, you can visit Healthline.