These tasty Red Lobster Brussels sprouts are all about crisp and flavor! They’re roasted to perfection, making them a delightful side dish with a touch of garlic and cheese.
I love how these sprouts are a hit even with those who usually don’t like them! Pair them with any meal, and they instantly upgrade your dinner. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are a must for this dish. When picking, look for firm, compact sprouts. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen Brussels sprouts can work, but they might be softer.
Bacon: I love the crispy texture and smoky flavor bacon brings. If you want a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon substitute. Both can provide a delicious alternate flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Shredded Parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Grated pecorino Romano is a great substitute too, offering a sharp taste.
Crispy fried onions: These add crunch and a nice finishing touch. If you can’t find them store-bought, you can make your own by slicing onions thin and frying them until crispy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is my go-to!
How Do I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking Brussels sprouts so they are tender yet crispy requires patience and the right method. Follow these tips:
- Start by cooking them cut side down; this helps caramelize them nicely for great flavor.
- Don’t rush the first cooking phase! Let them sit undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This allows for browning.
- When flipping, keep an eye on them to avoid burning the garlic. Add it after flipping and cooking for just a few extra minutes.
By keeping an eye on them and giving them ample time, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness everyone loves!
How to Make Red Lobster Style Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (store bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, finely sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for slight smoky flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking them to perfection. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it turns crispy and golden. Once it’s nicely browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the savory bacon fat behind. Set the cooked bacon aside for later.
2. Prepare the Skillet:
With the skillet still over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter to the leftover bacon fat. Let the butter melt and blend together with the oil, creating a flavorful base for the Brussels sprouts.
3. Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
Now, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the cut sides facing down in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the bottoms to brown deliciously and caramelize, adding loads of flavor!
4. Season and Stir:
After they have browned, gently flip the Brussels sprouts over in the skillet. Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and if you like a smoky taste, sprinkle in the paprika. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the sprouts are tender but still crisp.
5. Finish with Bacon and Cheese:
At this point, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet along with half of the shredded Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese slightly melts and coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
6. Serve It Up:
Transfer the delicious Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Now, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the crispy fried onions on top for an extra crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with the finely sliced fresh chives or green onions.
7. Enjoy!
Serve this warm as a flavorful side dish that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy your scrumptious Red Lobster-style Brussels sprouts!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking to ensure they get crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or a plant-based butter instead of the butter to keep the flavors rich and delicious. You can also add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor that bacon would provide.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This dish is versatile, and you can add other vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the additional veggies to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.
