How to Make Crispy and Delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Simple Recipe

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1. Introduction

Are you looking for a healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare? Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the answer! These little green gems transform into crispy, caramelized bites of deliciousness when roasted to perfection. Perfect for anyone who’s looking to add more veggies to their meals without sacrificing taste.

Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness while creating that irresistible crispy texture on the edges. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite protein, enjoying them as a snack, or incorporating them into a hearty salad, Roasted Brussels Sprouts are sure to impress. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple and customizable, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

In this post, I’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making these crispy, tender Brussels sprouts. You’ll also learn some pro tips for enhancing the flavor, along with serving ideas that will make these sprouts a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started!

2. Ingredients Breakdown

The beauty of Roasted Brussels Sprouts lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

  • Brussels Sprouts (1 lb)
     These are the star of the dish! Brussels sprouts are small, green vegetables with a slightly bitter taste when raw, but they become incredibly sweet and nutty when roasted.
    Tip: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts with bright green leaves. Trim any yellow or wilted outer leaves before cooking.
  • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
     Olive oil helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully in the oven, and it adds a rich, slightly fruity flavor.
    Substitution: If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil.
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
     A bit of salt is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
    Tip: If you prefer a salt-free option, you can always season the dish with herbs or a low-sodium seasoning blend.
  • Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
     A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
    Substitution: You can use white pepper if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
     Garlic powder adds a wonderful depth of flavor without being too pungent.
    Substitution: You can also use fresh minced garlic if you want a stronger garlic flavor.
  • Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)
     A squeeze of lemon juice after roasting adds a fresh, zesty contrast to the savory, crispy Brussels sprouts.
    Substitution: You can use balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Fresh Parsley (optional)
     Fresh parsley is used for garnish, adding color and a pop of freshness to the dish.
    Tip: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also pair well with roasted Brussels sprouts.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to make your Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is essential for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts with a tender interior.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Then, slice the Brussels sprouts in half from top to bottom to ensure even roasting.
Tip: If you’re in a rush, you can leave the Brussels sprouts whole, but halving them allows for more crispy edges and faster cooking.

Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings

Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated in oil and seasonings.
Tip: For an even coating, try using your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. If they’re packed too tightly, they won’t roast properly and may end up steaming instead of crisping.
Tip: Use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet for the crispiest results, as it allows air to circulate around the Brussels sprouts.

Step 5: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, toss the Brussels sprouts or shake the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
Tip: If you want extra crispy Brussels sprouts, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice

Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and drizzle them with fresh lemon juice. Toss to coat evenly, and then transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish.
Tip: For an extra zing, add a little lemon zest before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the Brussels sprouts with fresh parsley or your favorite herbs. Serve immediately as a side dish or snack.
Tip: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or serve alongside a main dish like grilled chicken or roast beef.

4. Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

  • Use high heat for roasting to achieve that crispy texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the Brussels sprouts plenty of space to roast evenly.
  • Toss halfway through the cooking process to ensure they crisp up on all sides.
  • Season generously—Brussels sprouts can be a little bitter, so seasoning well makes a big difference in flavor.

Variations:

  • Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
     Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, salty crunch. Simply cook the bacon beforehand and sprinkle it over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
  • Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts:
     Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar before roasting, or for extra flavor, make a balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey.
  • Vegan Option:
     Keep the recipe vegan by using vegan butter instead of regular butter and omitting any dairy-based garnishes like parmesan.
  • Sweet and Spicy Brussels Sprouts:
     For a kick, toss the Brussels sprouts with a little honey and red pepper flakes before roasting. This adds a sweet-spicy contrast to the savory dish.

5. Serving Suggestions

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many other meals. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Main Course Pairings:
    • Serve alongside a grilled steak or roast chicken for a balanced meal.
    • They’re also a great side dish for pasta dishes or quinoa bowls.
  • Side Pairings:
    • Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a light, well-rounded meal.
    • Serve with a creamy dip like ranch dressing or blue cheese to add extra flavor.
  • Drinks:
    • Complement the Brussels sprouts with a glass of white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chardonnay.
    • For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon water will add a refreshing touch.

6. Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To keep them crispy, it’s best to store them without the sauce and add it later when reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the Brussels sprouts for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
  • Microwave Method: While not ideal for crispiness, you can microwave the Brussels sprouts for 1-2 minutes, but the texture will be softer.

7. Recipe Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance and roast them just before serving. They also make great leftovers!
  • Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to the Brussels sprouts, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or even parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.

8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories150
Fat13g
Saturated Fat2g
Carbs8g
Sugar3g
Fiber4g
Protein4g
Sodium320mg
Cholesterol10mg
Calcium60mg
Iron1.5mg

Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

9. Recipe Card Summary

Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim Brussels sprouts and cut in half.
  3. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with parsley.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes:

  • For extra crispy Brussels sprouts, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition:
 Calories: 150 | Fat: 13g | Carbs: 8g | Protein: 4g

10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a perfect side dish that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to satisfy your veggie cravings. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below

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