There’s something undeniably comforting about the sight of golden-brown Roasted Brussels Sprouts emerging from the oven, their crispy edges calling out for attention. It was on a chilly evening, just as the leaves began to fall, that I decided to elevate my usual vegetable side dish. Instead of turning to fast food, which had become too routine, I craved the warmth of home-cooked goodness. With just a few simple ingredients—some fresh Brussels sprouts, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan—I knew I could transform this humble veggie into a delicious companion for any meal.
What’s truly special about these Roasted Brussels Sprouts is their delightful versatility. They can be dressed simply or enhanced with a splash of balsamic vinegar and a hint of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or enjoying them on a weeknight, they’re bound to become a favorite at your table. So, let’s dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe that’s sure to impress and leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion.
- With their delightful crispy texture and rich, savory flavor, they will elevate your meal and impress your guests.
- The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the sprouts with different toppings, so you can enjoy a new flavor combination every time.
- Plus, they come together in just 40 minutes, saving you precious time in the kitchen while still delivering a crowd-pleasing dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
• Discover the essentials behind this dish!
For the Sprouts
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts – the star of the show; fresh and firm is key!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps achieve that golden, crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing the natural flavors; adjust to taste.
Optional Additions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the sprouts.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar – introduces a tangy sweetness that elevates every bite.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – brings a delightful creaminess and umami punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – for those who crave a bit of heat with their Roasted Brussels Sprouts!
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
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Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise to enhance cooking and caramelization.
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Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Make sure they are evenly coated for optimal flavor.
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Arrange the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down for maximum crispiness. This helps them roast evenly and develop a beautiful color.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure they cook evenly until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
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Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted Brussels sprouts just before serving, if desired. This adds a delicious tang that complements their earthy flavor.
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Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) to elevate the dish right before serving, adding a touch of creaminess and spice.
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Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course! These Brussels sprouts are perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Optional: Try adding toasted nuts for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Roasted Brussels Sprouts, adding delicious twists that enhance their irresistible flavor.
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Vegan: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based alternative that still delivers yum!
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Spicy: Toss in more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a fiery kick that wakes up your taste buds.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the sprouts before roasting, balancing their earthy taste with a hint of sweetness.
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Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the baking sheet during the last 10 minutes for a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
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Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lemon over the roasted sprouts just before serving for a zesty brightness that refreshes the dish.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting, infusing the sprouts with aromatic, fragrant notes.
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Asian Flair: Toss in sesame oil and top with sesame seeds for a unique twist that brings a touch of umami and richness.
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Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, crumbled on top right after roasting for a tangy finish.
What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Creating a meal around your favorite side dish can elevate your dining experience into something truly memorable. Imagine the vibrant colors and rich aromas of your next gathering with these delightful pairings.
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Savory Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes contrasts wonderfully with the crispiness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a comforting balance on your plate.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken complements the earthy flavors of the Brussels sprouts, making for an irresistible combination that satisfies the palate.
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Quinoa Salad: A fresh, zesty quinoa salad adds a lightness to the meal, perfectly contrasting the hearty roasted flavor of the sprouts. Toss in some feta and lemon for an even more refreshing bite.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is the perfect vehicle to mop up any leftover sauce from your main dish, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
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Creamy Pasta: A rich, creamy pasta dish can provide a luscious counterpoint to the roasted textures, inviting second helpings that are too tempting to resist.
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Cranberry Sauce: Adding a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce brings sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty, nutty flavor of the roasted Brussels sprouts.
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Red Wine: A smooth, medium-bodied red wine pairs perfectly with both the savory flavors of the chicken and the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, enhancing the entire dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a delightful end to your meal, balancing the rich flavors with a sweet, airy finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash, trim, and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder ahead of time and refrigerate this seasoning blend. When you’re ready to roast, simply toss the sprouts with the oil mixture and roast them in the oven as directed. This preparation not only saves valuable time but also ensures that the sprouts remain just as delicious and crispy when served!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Room Temperature: Keep roasted Brussels sprouts at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving immediately, but they’re best stored in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store cooled Roasted Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy their crispy texture again.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place the cooled Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their delightful crispiness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts, make sure to trim the ends and remove any damaged leaves to ensure an even cook.
- When tossing the sprouts with olive oil and seasonings, be generous with the salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Achieve maximum crispiness by arranging the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet before roasting.
- Remember to stir the sprouts halfway through cooking to ensure they roast evenly and achieve a delightful golden brown color.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, green sprouts that are compact and heavy for their size. Avoid any with yellow or wilted leaves or dark spots all over, as these indicate they may be overripe or past their prime. Smaller sprouts are often sweeter and more flavorful, so I usually prefer choosing those!
How should I store leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Storing these is a breeze! After they’ve cooled, simply place the roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven or microwave. I find reheating in the oven helps maintain their delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Very much so! To freeze, first allow your roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
What can I do if my Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy?
If you find your roasted Brussels sprouts aren’t achieving that desired crispiness, it could be due to a few factors. First, ensure they’re cut side down to maximize surface area exposure. Also, check if they’re crowded on the baking sheet; spacing them out helps create that golden, crispy texture! Lastly, if they seem soggy, perhaps they need a little longer in the oven – don’t shy away from extending the cooking time by a few minutes!
Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts safe for pets?
While Roasted Brussels Sprouts are safe for most dogs and cats in small amounts, it’s essential to avoid using any seasonings like garlic or onion. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet to ensure they’re safe for your furry friends. Balance is key, so keep it minimal!
Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?
Of course! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Each type of oil has its unique characteristics, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Just keep in mind that each will impact the taste and cooking temperature slightly, so adjust accordingly!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts the star of the show; fresh and firm is key!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil helps achieve that golden, crispy texture.
- Salt essential for enhancing the natural flavors; adjust to taste.
- Pepper essential for enhancing the natural flavors; adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the sprouts.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar introduces a tangy sweetness that elevates every bite.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese brings a delightful creaminess and umami punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for those who crave a bit of heat with their Roasted Brussels Sprouts!
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
- Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted Brussels sprouts just before serving, if desired.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) right before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course!
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