Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, especially among kids. As a child, I was no exception. I remember sitting at the dinner table, staring at those little green globes with disdain, wishing they’d magically disappear. But over the years, my perspective on Brussels sprouts has completely transformed. Today, they’re one of my favorite side dishes, especially when roasted to crispy perfection. This simple roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to for a healthy, flavorful, and fuss-free meal. It’s an easy way to elevate any weeknight dinner and can even convert the most skeptical eaters into Brussels sprouts lovers. Let’s dive into why this dish is so great and how you can make it at home.
What is Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
Roasted Brussels sprouts are exactly what they sound like: small, cabbage-like vegetables roasted until they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness and transforms their once-bitter flavor into something wonderfully savory. It’s a method that enhances the vegetable’s texture, making them both crunchy and soft with a delicious caramelization.
The magic happens when Brussels sprouts are cut in half or quarters and roasted in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. The high heat makes them crisp up, while the inner part remains tender and full of flavor. It’s an easy, healthy side dish that pairs well with nearly any meal. Plus, it’s kid-friendly—believe me, even the little ones will be reaching for seconds once they get a taste of the crispy bits!
Why You’ll Love
There are countless reasons why this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe will become your new favorite way to prepare these tiny vegetables. First and foremost, it’s quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a healthy side dish ready in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is also highly versatile. You can add different herbs and spices to make it your own. Want to spice it up? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. Craving something a little more savory? Try adding a bit of Parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze after roasting for a rich, tangy finish.
Another reason you’ll love this dish is that it’s perfect for weeknights. It requires very little attention once the Brussels sprouts are in the oven, so you can focus on preparing other parts of the meal. And if you’re looking to make leftovers, these roasted Brussels sprouts recipe hold up well in the fridge and are delicious the next day. They make for a great addition to salads or even as a topping for a quick grain bowl.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or red pepper flakes
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, or lemon zest for finishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high temperature is key to getting the Brussels sprouts nice and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise, or if they’re particularly large, you can quarter them for more even roasting.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning
Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can add garlic powder or red pepper flakes at this stage. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast in the Oven
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Try to make sure the cut sides are facing down to help them get crispy. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Halfway through cooking, give the sprouts a quick toss to ensure even roasting.
Step 5: Optional Finishing Touches
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and consider adding a finishing touch. For a savory kick, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese while they’re still hot. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few shavings of lemon zest can add a refreshing tang to balance out the richness of the roasted Brussels sprouts recipe.
What to Serve With
This Roasted Brussels sprouts recipe make an excellent side dish for a wide range of meals. They’re perfect alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or baked salmon. You can also serve them as part of a vegetarian spread, pairing them with quinoa, rice, or a hearty grain salad. For a more festive occasion, they pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes and stuffing for a Thanksgiving-style meal. Their versatility ensures that they can be matched with just about anything.
Top Tips for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Uniform Size: Try to cut your Brussels sprouts into even pieces so they cook at the same rate. Larger sprouts can be halved or quartered, while smaller ones can be left whole.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your Brussels sprouts some breathing room on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast and won’t crisp up as well.
- Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and seasonings. A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary before roasting can add an aromatic touch. Smoked paprika brings depth, while lemon zest can give a fresh, zesty finish.
- Use Parchment Paper: If you want extra-easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before roasting.
Storing and Reheating
Roasted Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot oven or skillet to restore some of their crispy texture. If you reheat them in the microwave, they may lose their crispness, but they’ll still taste delicious.
FAQs
Can I make roasted Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and roast Brussels sprouts ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat them when needed. Just make sure to keep them in a sealed container to maintain their flavor.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen ones, you can still roast them. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent them from getting crispy.
How do I know when they’re done?
The Brussels sprouts are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. You should see some caramelization on the outer leaves, and they should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with other veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower. Just be sure to cut them to similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Are roasted Brussels sprouts kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The crispy, caramelized edges are often a hit with kids. Plus, roasting Brussels sprouts can help reduce their bitterness, making them more palatable for younger taste buds.
Conclusion
This roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is a game-changer. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish, something to serve at a dinner party, or a way to make leftovers exciting, these crispy little veggies will not disappoint. The combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility makes them a staple in my kitchen. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even novice cooks can achieve perfect results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy this delicious, healthy side with your next meal!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Kochutensilien
- Baking sheet
- Knife and cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
Zutaten
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or red pepper flakes
- Optional: Parmesan cheese balsamic glaze, or lemon zest for finishing
Anleitungen
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to getting the Brussels sprouts nice and crispy.
- Step 2:
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, trim the ends, and remove any outer leaves that are yellow or damaged. Cut each Brussels sprout in half or into quarters if they’re particularly large.
- Step 3:
- Place the Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated. If you want extra flavor, you can add garlic powder or red pepper flakes.
- Step 4:
- Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the cut sides are facing down to ensure crispiness.
- Step 5:
- Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. They’re done when golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Step 6:
- Once done, you can add optional finishing touches like freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of lemon zest.