Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe

These smashed Brussels sprouts are the ultimate way to make vegetables taste good! Crispy, perfectly coated in breadcrumbs, these make a perfect side dish that's vegan and also easy to make.

If you don't like Brussels sprouts, this recipe will probably change your mind! I think we've all had run-ins with unappetizing Brussels sprouts. Sure, if you just boil them in water, they're kinda boring and bland. But, this recipe takes them to the next level!

The process of making smashed Brussels sprouts increases their surface area, which allows them to crisp up to deliciousness. I also added a breading made from Panko breadcrumbs. This makes the finished product even more phenomenal. After all, you just can't go wrong with breadcrumbs when it comes to side dishes.

This recipe is vegan, easy to make, and requires just a handful of simple ingredients. I highly recommend you bring it along to any special occasion, such as Christmas or Thanksgiving. But they also make a phenomenal addition to a weeknight dinner!

Ingredients for smashed Brussels sprouts

• Brussels sprouts. You can either get trimmed Brussels sprouts from the supermarket to save time, or trim them yourself.
• Panko breadcrumbs. Ordinary breadcrumbs also work, but I find that the texture of Panko gives the best crunch.
• The spices: paprika, cumin, turmeric and salt. These are added to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Olive oil for adding extra crispiness.
• Maple syrup. This adds a great hint of sweetness. You can leave it out if you wish, or use another liquid sweetener of your choice,

How to make smashed Brussels sprouts

Firstly, add the Brussels sprouts to a large saucepan of lightly salted water. Bring to a simmer and cook for around 10 minutes, until fully softened.

Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath. When they are ready, transfer the Brussels sprouts to the ice bath for a couple of minutes, then drain and rinse them.

Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a flat surface, such as a chopping board or a baking tray. Smash them using the bottom of a glass.

Add the Brussels sprouts to a mixing bowl and mix together with the olive oil and maple syrup. Then, add the breading and mix once more.

Spread out the sprouts on a large baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F/180 degrees C for 25 minutes, until crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Serve immediately.

Recipe tips and variations

• These smashed Brussels sprouts are best eaten immediately - I wouldn't recommend leaving them for more than a couple of hours as they will lose their crispiness.
• Don't boil the sprouts for too long, as this will cause them to develop a bitter flavor.
• To make cheesy Brussels sprouts, add either nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Adjust the amount of seasoning you use depending on personal preference.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs of your choice.
• Don't overcrowd the baking tray - make sure that they are in a single layer. Overcrowding will prevent them from getting crispy.

How to serve smashed Brussels sprouts

These sprouts are the most perfectly versatile side dish! You can serve them alongside a centrepiece such as vegan ham, a vegan meatloaf, or my realistic & delicious vegan schnitzel. They're also amazing paired with tofu steaks. For a dipping sauce, I would recommend dairy-free mayo or vegan horseradish sauce.

Other delicious vegan side dishes

If you give these smashed Brussels sprouts a go, be sure to tag me on Instagram (@ohmyveggies) and leave your feedback in the comments below together with a star rating! I’d love to hear from you.