Introduction
Pasta night just got a major upgrade with this Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn Brussels sprouts into a dish that even the most picky eaters will enjoy, this recipe is the answer. Brussels sprouts, often misunderstood and underappreciated, become the star of the show when paired with creamy Parmesan, garlic, and a rich pasta base. Whether you’re looking to eat more vegetables, or you’re just craving something different from your usual pasta dishes, this meal is a game-changer.
This dish is the perfect balance of flavors and textures: the Brussels sprouts are roasted to golden perfection, adding a satisfying crispness that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta. The Parmesan sauce is creamy and nutty, helping to elevate the Brussels sprouts while creating a comforting and delicious pasta dish. It’s simple, yet sophisticated—ideal for a weeknight dinner, or even as an impressive dish for a special occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it flawlessly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. When combined with the richness of Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a flavorful way to add more vegetables to your diet.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples like pasta, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, you can create a dish that feels fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This pasta is naturally vegetarian, making it a great option for those who prefer plant-based meals, or simply want a break from meat.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a fast but delicious dinner for guests.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra ingredients like pine nuts, crispy bacon, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a twist. You can make it your own with just a few simple changes.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cook time)
- Servings: 4 servings
- Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, without pasta): Calories: 280, Protein: 12g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 6g.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pasta: This can be any type of pasta you like—spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Choose your favorite to soak up all the savory sauce.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts: Fresh, trimmed, and halved. Brussels sprouts are the star ingredient here, and roasting them brings out their sweet, nutty flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting the Brussels sprouts and adding richness to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds aromatic flavor and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The key to a creamy, nutty sauce that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the Brussels sprouts and the pasta.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the sauce, making it creamy and velvety.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: To create a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will allow the Brussels sprouts to roast perfectly, becoming crispy on the edges while staying tender on the inside.
Next, prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming off the tough outer leaves and cutting them in half. If you have larger Brussels sprouts, you may want to quarter them. Place them in a large bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss the Brussels sprouts until they’re evenly coated, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting them at a high temperature ensures they become caramelized and crispy, which is essential for adding texture to the pasta.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn. The goal is for the sprouts to become golden and crispy on the outside, while still tender on the inside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Aim to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce.
Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the pasta and Brussels sprouts are cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Once the garlic is softened and aromatic, add the butter and let it melt into the garlic. Stir in the heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Sauce
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the pasta is cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Gently fold in the roasted Brussels sprouts, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and give everything one last toss. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. You can also top the dish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
How to Serve
This Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan makes a delicious main dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Garlic Bread: The perfect side to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, squash, or sweet potatoes add depth to the meal.
- Wine Pairing: Pair this pasta with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the richness of the Parmesan.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, swap out the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version (or nutritional yeast) and replace the butter and heavy cream with plant-based options, such as olive oil and coconut cream.
- Add Protein: If you want to add protein to the dish, grilled chicken, sausage, or crispy bacon would complement the Brussels sprouts and Parmesan nicely.
- Nutty Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts, chopped walnuts, or almonds for an extra crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Lemon Zest: Add a little lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish and add a fresh citrus note.
- Spicy Version: For an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped fresh chili to the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious on the second day.
Freezing: This pasta dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a pan with a splash of olive oil or water to bring it back to life.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Conclusion
This Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan is a delightful and nutritious twist on your typical pasta night. With roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy Parmesan, and a touch of garlic, it’s the perfect balance of savory, crunchy, and creamy in every bite. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables or looking for a comforting pasta dish with a little extra flair, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and easy to customize to
your liking, making it the perfect meal for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how delicious and versatile Brussels sprouts can be!
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Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan: A Delicious and Nutritious Twist on Pasta Night
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan is a hearty and comforting dish that transforms Brussels sprouts into the star of the show. Sautéed until golden and crispy, the Brussels sprouts add a savory, slightly nutty flavor that complements the pasta beautifully. Tossed in a rich and cheesy Parmesan sauce, this dish has a satisfying balance of flavors that’s both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Brussels sprouts or new to them, this pasta is an easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable in a whole new way. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for a more elaborate meal, this recipe is both flavorful and easy to make, showcasing the versatility of Brussels sprouts in a pasta dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pasta: This can be any type of pasta you like—spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Choose your favorite to soak up all the savory sauce.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts: Fresh, trimmed, and halved. Brussels sprouts are the star ingredient here, and roasting them brings out their sweet, nutty flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting the Brussels sprouts and adding richness to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds aromatic flavor and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The key to a creamy, nutty sauce that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the Brussels sprouts and the pasta.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the sauce, making it creamy and velvety.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: To create a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous pop of color.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will allow the Brussels sprouts to roast perfectly, becoming crispy on the edges while staying tender on the inside.
Next, prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming off the tough outer leaves and cutting them in half. If you have larger Brussels sprouts, you may want to quarter them. Place them in a large bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss the Brussels sprouts until they’re evenly coated, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting them at a high temperature ensures they become caramelized and crispy, which is essential for adding texture to the pasta.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn. The goal is for the sprouts to become golden and crispy on the outside, while still tender on the inside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Aim to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce.
Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the pasta and Brussels sprouts are cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Once the garlic is softened and aromatic, add the butter and let it melt into the garlic. Stir in the heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Sauce
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the pasta is cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Gently fold in the roasted Brussels sprouts, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and give everything one last toss. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. You can also top the dish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the Brussels Sprout Pasta with Parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 12g
