These Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts are one of those dishes that remind you simple ingredients can create something spectacular. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with a savory layer of herbs, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Perfect for Thanksgiving side dishes, festive dinners, or even a quiet evening meal, this recipe turns humble Brussels sprouts into the star of your table. Whether you serve them alongside Honey Glazed Carrots, turkey, or roasted chicken, they bring brightness, balance, and a burst of flavor to every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These aren’t the soggy sprouts you remember as a kid. Roasting transforms Brussels sprouts completely — their bitterness fades, replaced by deep, nutty flavor and irresistible crisp edges. Combined with herbs and Parmesan, they become crave-worthy.
You’ll love this recipe because:
- It’s quick — ready in about 25 minutes.
- It’s flavorful — garlic, Parmesan, and herbs make magic.
- It’s healthy — packed with nutrients and fiber.
- It’s versatile — perfect for fall vegetable recipes or holiday feasts.
- It’s elegant enough for Thanksgiving side dishes yet easy enough for weeknights.
- It converts Brussels sprout skeptics into believers.
If you’ve been looking for easy holiday sides that look and taste like they came from a restaurant, this one’s it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients, big flavor. That’s the secret behind this recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Brussels sprouts | 1½ lbs | Trimmed and halved |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Helps crisp the sprouts |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced finely |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tsp | Adds earthy depth |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 tsp | Optional, adds fragrance |
| Salt | ½ tsp | To taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | Freshly ground |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup | Freshly grated |
| Lemon zest | ½ tsp | Optional, for brightness |
Optional add-ons: crushed red pepper for heat, or balsamic glaze for sweetness.
This mix creates the perfect roasted vegetables recipe — crunchy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
How to Make Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Step 1 — Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Trim the ends of each Brussels sprout, remove any yellow leaves, and cut them in half.
Dry them thoroughly using paper towels — this is key. Moisture prevents crisping, and you want those irresistible golden edges. Place the sprouts in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 2 — Add Flavor
Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the bowl. Toss again so the herbs coat every sprout. The combination of garlic and herbs creates a savory base that intensifies as the sprouts roast.
Step 3 — Roast Until Crispy
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down. This ensures they caramelize beautifully. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown evenly.
As they roast, you’ll notice the edges turning golden and slightly crisp — that’s when you know they’re perfect. The aroma of garlic and herbs will fill the air, making it almost impossible to wait.
Step 4 — Finish with Parmesan
Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot sprouts. Toss gently so the cheese melts and clings to the crispy surfaces. Add a touch of lemon zest if you’d like a little brightness.
Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot. The result? Crispy, cheesy, herb-infused sprouts that steal the show on any dinner table.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Dry them well. Excess water steams the sprouts instead of roasting them.
- Use high heat. 400°F–425°F ensures golden edges and tender centers.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Space allows air circulation and crisping.
- Use fresh Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as beautifully.
- Add the cheese at the end. It stays golden and doesn’t burn.
- Finish with lemon zest or balsamic glaze. These add balance and brightness.
These simple tricks make this dish one of the most reliable easy holiday sides for any occasion.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
These Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not just tasty — they’re a powerhouse of nutrients. High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, they’re the perfect healthy Thanksgiving food for your holiday menu.
How to Store and Reheat
Good news — these sprouts store and reheat beautifully.
- Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Reheat in Oven: Bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to bring back their crispness.
- Avoid the Microwave: It softens the texture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Trim and season the sprouts a day before. Roast them right before serving for the best crunch.
If you’re planning a big feast, this make-ahead trick will save you time on Thanksgiving Day.
Perfect Pairings
These Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with almost everything on a holiday table.
Try them with:
- Roast turkey or honey-glazed ham
- Honey Glazed Carrots for sweetness
- Creamy Mashed Cauliflower with Chives for balance
- Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans for a caramelized contrast
- Gravy, stuffing, or mashed potatoes for the ultimate Thanksgiving experience
Whether it’s part of your Thanksgiving side dishes lineup or your regular dinner rotation, these sprouts complement any meal beautifully.
Why This Recipe Works
Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a game-changer. It transforms their natural bitterness into nutty sweetness. The olive oil ensures crisp edges, the herbs add aromatic flavor, and the Parmesan melts into a savory, golden coating that clings to each sprout.
The result is a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and tender textures. It’s proof that roasted vegetables recipes can be both healthy and indulgent. These sprouts aren’t just an afterthought — they’re the dish people ask for seconds of.
Flavor Variations You’ll Love
- Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts: Toss with melted butter before serving for extra richness.
- Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, salty bite.
- Balsamic Glazed Sprouts: Drizzle balsamic glaze right before serving for sweet tang.
- Spicy Parmesan Sprouts: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Nutty Sprouts: Toss in toasted almonds or pecans for crunch.
Each variation fits beautifully into your easy holiday sides menu and can be adjusted to suit your family’s taste.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw them first and pat completely dry. Frozen sprouts tend to release moisture, so roasting them longer helps maintain crispness.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Replace Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Q3: How do I make the sprouts extra crispy?
Make sure they’re completely dry before roasting, and cook them cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
Q4: What herbs work best besides thyme and rosemary?
You can use basil, parsley, or oregano for a different twist.
Q5: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Mix the garlic into the oil and toss evenly before roasting. It will roast gently without scorching.
The Secret to Perfect Brussels Sprouts Every Time
The real magic lies in heat and patience. Roasting at a high temperature caramelizes the natural sugars inside the sprouts. The edges become crisp while the centers stay tender. When you add Parmesan at the end, it melts into the crevices, creating tiny golden crusts that crunch perfectly with every bite.
This technique turns a simple vegetable into something worthy of your best Thanksgiving side dishes. Pair that with fresh herbs, and you’ve got a dish that brings restaurant-level flavor to your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Make These Every Year
Once you make these Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’ll never skip them again. They’re simple yet sophisticated, a dish that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese makes them universally appealing.
They’re also a great balance on your table — crispy and salty next to sweet sides like Honey Glazed Carrots or Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans. Even picky eaters go back for seconds.
It’s the kind of side that guests rave about and ask for the recipe. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, not just for Thanksgiving, but all year long.
Make It a Full Holiday Menu
Want to create a complete spread around these Brussels sprouts? Try this pairing plan:
- Main Course: Herb-roasted turkey or grilled salmon
- Side 1: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower with Chives
- Side 2: Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Side 3: Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Dessert: Pumpkin pie or apple crumble
Together, these dishes form a balanced, colorful table filled with both comfort and nutrition — the essence of healthy Thanksgiving food done right.
Storing and Repurposing Leftovers
Don’t toss your leftovers — turn them into new meals.
- Brussels Sprout Hash: Chop them and fry with eggs and potatoes.
- Salad Add-In: Add cold roasted sprouts to a salad with nuts and cranberries.
- Pasta Upgrade: Toss them into a creamy pasta sauce for an instant flavor boost.
- Pizza Topping: Use them on homemade pizza with goat cheese and balsamic drizzle.
This recipe isn’t just a side dish — it’s a meal prep hero.
Conclusion
Simple. Crispy. Irresistible. These Parmesan Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts are proof that vegetables can be exciting. They take less than 30 minutes to make, use ingredients you already have, and bring elegance and flavor to any meal.
Whether you’re planning a full Thanksgiving side dishes spread or looking for something light to pair with your weeknight chicken, these sprouts deliver every time. They’re golden, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned — the definition of comfort food done right.
So preheat your oven, grab a bag of Brussels sprouts, and get ready to watch them disappear faster than any dessert on the table.
🧀 Crispy, herby, and bursting with Parmesan flavor — this is how Brussels sprouts win over everyone at the table.

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