Name: Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Optional toppings: bacon bits, grated Parmesan cheese

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Smashed Brussels sprouts are a delightful twist on the traditional roasted vegetable. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts with a crispy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The process is simple but yields impressive results that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight feast, these smashed Brussels sprouts are the perfect side dish. You can customize them with your favorite seasonings or toppings, making them as unique as your taste buds desire. In this article, we’ll walk you through the benefits of this dish, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to create this culinary delight in just a few simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Brussels Sprouts: Use fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the taste and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt works best to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a little kick; adjust according to your preference.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth of flavor; feel free to use fresh garlic if preferred.

For optional toppings:

Bacon Bits: Cooked bacon bits add crunch and a savory flavor; use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan provides a rich finish; sprinkle generously before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends off each sprout and remove any yellowing leaves. Boil them in salted water for about eight minutes until tender but still firm.

Step 3: Smash the Sprouts

Drain the boiled sprouts and let them cool slightly. Place each sprout on the baking sheet, then use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each one flat.

Step 4: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle olive oil over the smashed sprouts. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any additional seasonings you prefer.

Step 5: Roast in Oven

Roast in the preheated oven for about twenty-five to thirty minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Add Toppings

If using bacon bits or Parmesan cheese, sprinkle them over the sprouts during the last five minutes of roasting.

Transfer to plates and serve warm for an irresistible side dish!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Crispy Finish: For extra crispiness, broil for an additional two minutes at the end of baking

How to Serve Smashed Brussels Sprouts

This Smashed Brussels Sprouts is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the Smashed Brussels Sprouts in advance by cooking and smashing them. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days before serving.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container for up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the Smashed Brussels Sprouts in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warm.

Suggestions for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Select Fresh Brussels Sprouts

Using fresh Brussels sprouts is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. When selecting your sprouts, look for bright green, firm heads without yellowing or browning leaves. Fresh sprouts will have a slightly sweet aroma. Avoid those that feel soft or have blemishes; they indicate age and potential spoilage. Proper storage is also important—keep them in a cool, dry place, ideally in the refrigerator, to prolong their freshness. Investing time in picking high-quality ingredients will enhance your dish significantly.

Don’t Overcook the Sprouts

Overcooking Brussels sprouts can lead to a mushy texture and bitter flavor. Aim to steam or boil them just until they are tender but still vibrant green. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on the size of the sprouts. Once cooked, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process if you’re not smashing them right away. Keeping an eye on them during cooking ensures you maintain their natural sweetness and delightful crunch.

Use the Right Tools

For perfectly smashed Brussels sprouts, having the right tools can make all the difference. A sturdy potato masher or a fork works well for smashing, while a large pot or steamer basket is essential for cooking them. Ensure your utensils are clean and dry before use to prevent any unwanted flavors from affecting your dish. Using quality kitchen tools not only makes the process easier but also helps achieve consistent results in texture and presentation.

Season Generously

Brussels sprouts benefit greatly from generous seasoning to elevate their flavor profile. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil are excellent starting points. Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. After mashing, taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Experimenting with different spices can create unique variations that elevate your Smashed Brussels Sprouts into something truly special.

FAQs

How do I store leftover Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

After enjoying your Smashed Brussels Sprouts, proper storage is essential to maintain freshness. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator where they will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; however, keep in mind that this may alter their texture slightly when reheated. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I make Smashed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing Smashed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time can save you effort during busy meal times. You can cook and smash the sprouts in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Before serving, gently reheat them on low heat with a splash of olive oil to restore moisture and flavor. This makes it convenient for meal prep while allowing you to enjoy this delicious side dish with minimal fuss.

What can I serve with Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Smashed Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with various main dishes due to their versatile flavor profile. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty vegetarian main like mushroom risotto. They also complement rich dishes such as beef or pork nicely by providing a bright contrast. Feel free to get creative; these smashed sprouts can even be used as a filling in wraps or sandwiches!

Can I add cheese to my Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Adding cheese can enhance the flavor of your Smashed Brussels Sprouts significantly. Popular options include grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese sprinkled on top just before serving for an extra burst of richness and creaminess. If you’re looking for something gooey, try melting some cheddar cheese into the mixture after mashing it for added texture and taste.

Conclusion for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

In summary, mastering Smashed Brussels Sprouts requires attention to detail from ingredient selection to proper cooking techniques. Always choose fresh sprouts and avoid overcooking for optimal flavor and texture. Utilize proper kitchen tools and don’t shy away from seasoning generously; these steps ensure delicious results every time you prepare this dish. Additionally, storing leftovers correctly and pairing with complementary mains can elevate your meal experience further. By following these suggestions, you’ll delight family and friends with perfectly smashed sprouts that shine on any table!