
Smashed Brussels Sprouts (Crispy & Easy)
Ingredients
- 1 lbbrussels sprouts
- 2 tbspolive oil)
(plus more for the baking sheet, or cooking spray
- 1 tspgarlic powder
- 2 ½ tspsea salt)
(divided into 2 tsp and 1/2 tsp
- ⅛ tspcayenne pepper)
(or more if you like heat
- ½ cparmesan cheese)
(divided into 5 tablespoons and 3 tablespoons; optional
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (218 degrees C).
- 2
Boil a large pot of boiling water with 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Carefully add the brussels sprouts, return to a boil, and boil for 8-10 minutes, until tender (soft enough to insert a knife or fork). Run the sprouts under cold water or plunge into an ice bath to prevent overcooking. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
- 3
In a large bowl, toss the brussels sprouts together with the olive oil, garlic powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and cayenne pepper. Add 5 tablespoons (about 1/3 cup) of the parmesan cheese (if using) and toss again.
- 4
Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray or brush with oil. Arrange the sprouts in a single layer, with about 1.5-2 inches of space between them.
- 5
Using the bottom of a glass or mason jar, push down on the sprouts to smash them flat. Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese on top (optional).
- 6
Roast smashed brussels sprouts for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on both sides.

Smashed Brussels Sprouts (Crispy & Easy)
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful side dish that's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress? These crispy smashed brussels sprouts are your new go-to, transforming a humble vegetable into a star with minimal effort.
Why These Smashed Brussels Sprouts Work
The magic of this recipe lies in the "smashed" technique, which creates more surface area for maximum crispiness and a beautifully caramelized exterior. With just five simple ingredients and a cheesy parmesan finish, you'll achieve that irresistible crunch and savory depth that makes them so addictive. It's an easy, healthy side dish that elevates any meal.
What to Expect
Prepare for a delightful textural contrast: tender interiors encased in perfectly crispy edges. Each bite offers a burst of savory flavor, enhanced by aromatic garlic powder and a subtle warmth from cayenne pepper, all brought together by the optional, but highly recommended, cheesy richness of Parmesan. This dish is designed to be a healthy and satisfying addition to your table, proving that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or excitement. You'll find yourself reaching for these crunchy green gems again and again.
Customization & Variations
Easily adapt this recipe to your taste. For an extra kick, increase the cayenne pepper to your liking, or omit it entirely if you prefer no heat. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, simply skip the Parmesan cheese; the sprouts will still be wonderfully crispy and flavorful. You can also adjust the amount of Parmesan to suit your preference, using more for an extra cheesy result or less for a lighter touch.
Serving & Context
These versatile smashed brussels sprouts are perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an impressive side for a special occasion. They pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, adding a delicious and healthy element to any plate.
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