Roasted Brussel Sprouts Recipe: Roasted Brussels sprouts are a simple yet delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick family dinner, roasted Brussels sprouts are a crowd-pleaser.
Their crispy, caramelized exterior and tender interior make them a perfect companion to meat, pasta, or even a grain bowl. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and nutrients, making them as nutritious as they are tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients:
- Fresh Brussels sprouts (about 1 pound)
- Olive oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional add-ons:
- Garlic cloves (minced)
- Balsamic glaze or lemon juice for a tangy finish
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Grated Parmesan cheese for a savory touch
Equipment Required
To make the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts, you’ll need:
- A cutting board and sharp knife for prepping
- A mixing bowl for tossing the sprouts
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup
- An oven mitt to safely handle hot trays
Preparing Brussels Sprouts
Selecting fresh Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that look yellow, wilted, or have spots.
Washing and trimming sprouts: Wash the sprouts thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides. Trim the stem ends and peel off any discolored or loose outer leaves.
Halving or leaving them whole: For even cooking, halve the sprouts if they’re large. Smaller sprouts can be roasted whole.
Seasoning the Brussels Sprouts
Choosing the right oil: Olive oil is the most commonly used oil for roasting because of its flavor and high smoke point. Avocado oil or melted coconut oil are also great alternatives.
Using seasonings to elevate the flavor: Toss the sprouts with salt and black pepper for a simple, classic taste. For extra depth, try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin.
Creative seasoning variations: Experiment with maple syrup and Dijon mustard for a sweet-and-savory combo, or sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan-friendly option.
Roasting Instructions
Preheating your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to getting crispy, caramelized sprouts.
Arranging sprouts on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut side down. This ensures even roasting.
Achieving the perfect roast: Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The sprouts should be golden-brown and crispy on the edges.
Tips for Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; sprouts need space to crisp up.
- Roast at a high temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Variations on the Recipe
One of the best things about roasted Brussels sprouts is how versatile they are. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or complement the main dish.
Adding garlic or onions: For a deeper, aromatic flavor, toss whole garlic cloves or thick-sliced onions with the Brussels sprouts before roasting. The garlic will caramelize, becoming soft and sweet, while the onions add a hint of savory sharpness.
Drizzling with balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting gives the sprouts a tangy-sweet finish. The glaze enhances their natural sweetness, making them irresistible.
Incorporating bacon or cheese: Love a savory kick? Add crumbled, crispy bacon to your sprouts right before serving. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair well with various dishes. Here are a few ideas:
As a side dish: Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a hearty and healthy meal.
In a salad: Mix the roasted sprouts with arugula, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a vinaigrette for a delicious warm salad.
As a snack or appetizer: Serve the sprouts with a dipping sauce like aioli or spicy sriracha mayo. They make a fantastic finger food for parties!
Storing Leftovers
Roasted Brussels sprouts taste best fresh out of the oven, but you can store leftovers if needed.
How to store them: Let the sprouts cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating tips: To bring back their crispiness, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
FAQs about Roasted Brussel Sprouts Recipe
1. What are roasted Brussel sprouts?
Roasted Brussel sprouts are a delicious side dish made by roasting halved or whole Brussel sprouts in the oven until they are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
2. What ingredients do I need for roasted Brussel sprouts?
You’ll need fresh Brussel sprouts, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
3. How do I prepare Brussel sprouts for roasting?
Start by washing and trimming the ends of the Brussel sprouts. Remove any damaged outer leaves and cut them in half if they are large. Toss them with oil and seasoning before placing them on a baking sheet.
4. What temperature should I roast Brussel sprouts at?
Roast Brussel sprouts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–30 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the roasting pan?
Absolutely! Brussel sprouts pair well with carrots, potatoes, or butternut squash. Just ensure all vegetables are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
6. How do I make roasted Brussel sprouts crispy?
For maximum crispiness, spread the Brussel sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, and avoid overcrowding. High heat and proper spacing help achieve that perfect crunch.
7. Are roasted Brussel sprouts healthy?
Yes, roasted Brussel sprouts are packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Using minimal oil keeps the dish healthy and low in calories.
8. How should I store leftover roasted Brussel sprouts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
Roasted Brussels sprouts are an easy, flavorful addition to any meal. With a simple preparation process and endless seasoning options, they can be customized to fit any palate. Whether you’re a veggie enthusiast or a skeptic, this recipe might just make you fall in love with Brussels sprouts. Give it a try, and let the irresistible aroma and taste speak for themselves!
