These Red Lobster Brussels Sprouts are a tasty side dish that packs a lot of flavor! They are roasted until tender and crispy, and tossed in a delicious garlic butter sauce.
Every bite is a little burst of yum! I love serving these with my favorite seafood, and they always get gobbled up quickly. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: These little cabbages are the star of the dish! If fresh ones are hard to find, frozen Brussels sprouts work too—just adjust the roasting time as they might need a little longer.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can work well too.
Crispy Fried Onions/ Shallots: This adds crunch! If you can’t find them, you might use toasted nuts like almonds or even Panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is a fine substitute, though you’ll miss that smoky taste.
Lemon Zest: This brightens the dish nicely! Lime zest is also a great alternative if you’re out of lemon.
How Can I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Perfectly Roasted?
The key to roasting Brussels sprouts is to get that nice crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Here are some steps to follow:
- Preheat your oven properly to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps caramelize the sprouts.
- Spread them out cut side down in a single layer on your baking sheet to achieve that crispy brown edge.
- Check halfway through and stir them; this promotes even cooking and browning.
- Keep an eye on the time—20 to 25 minutes should be perfect, but every oven is different, so adjust as needed.
With these tips, you will have deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts that have that deliciously rich and cheesy finish! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Red Lobster Style Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or shallots
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme), finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick side dish to prepare. In total, you should be looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s warming up, you can line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Next, wash your Brussels sprouts, cutting off their stem ends and discarding any yellowed outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise; this helps them cook evenly and get crispy!
3. Season the Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Make sure they’re well-coated with the seasoning—this will make them super tasty!
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts on your prepared baking sheet, cut side down. Spread them out in a single layer; this is key for caramelizing them beautifully.
5. Roast Them Up!
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20 to 25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. Stir them halfway through to make sure they cook evenly—this keeps them from burning and helps in getting nice browning all over.
6. Add Cheese and Crunch:
Once they’re perfectly roasted, take the Brussels sprouts out of the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and crispy fried onions or shallots over them right away. Toss gently to blend everything together. The heat will melt the cheese just enough!
7. Finish with Freshness:
If you want a bright and zesty touch, add some lemon zest now. Finally, garnish with your choice of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Brussels sprouts warm as a flavorful side dish that will remind you of the delicious offerings at Red Lobster. Enjoy every bite of this crispy, cheesy delight!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before roasting. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a colander under cold running water for a quicker option. They may require slightly longer roasting time to get crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you prefer a different oil, avocado oil or melted butter are great alternatives that will still provide a wonderful flavor. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a warm oven (about 350°F/175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness, or you can microwave them for a quicker option, though they may lose some crunch.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also skip the crispy fried onions or use homemade ones made from flour and plant-based milk! Enjoy your delicious vegan Brussels sprouts!