The trick to cooking perfect, crispy Brussels sprouts is roasting them in the oven. This foolproof recipe will ensure you cook up a scrumptious pan of Brussels sprouts every single time. These Brussels sprouts make the perfect side dish for so many different recipes, plus they’re impressive (and delicious) enough to serve for a special occasion! Despite the unfortunate childhood associations, I’ve found that even the pickiest of vegetable eaters still enjoy this recipe (they also love this Sautéed Brussels Sprouts and Sautéed Cabbage. Fun fact: cabbage and Brussels sprouts are actually related). Roasted Brussels sprouts require fewer than 10 minutes prep (I just spent longer checking Instagram), and any leftovers you don’t immediately demolish can be gently reheated the next day in the oven. I love making a big batch of roasted Brussels sprouts at the beginning of the week, then enjoying the leftovers in salads, on pizza, or mixed with pasta in the spirit of this Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese. Of all of my favorite ways to enjoy them, however, nothing is better than munching them right off of the sheet pan. Don’t believe me? Try this recipe for perfect Brussels sprouts, and I bet you too will sneak bite after bite!
All About Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Here’s the run down on my go-to green vegetable.
Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts Good For You?
YES! Like their vegetable counterparts, Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients that benefit your overall health. Ready for some science?
Brussels sprouts have kaempferol and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which may inhibit cancer growth, prevent inflammation, and benefit heart health.With high levels of fiber, Brussels sprouts can support digestive health and possibly reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.Brussels sprouts contain high amounts of vitamin C, which benefits immune health, iron absorption, collagen production and the growth and repair of tissues.
How to Trim Brussels Sprouts
While you can make roasted Brussels sprouts whole or halved, I recommend trimming and halving them for this easy recipe.
To trim: Using a knife, trim off the bottom of the tough stem end of each Brussels sprout. Then, remove any yellow or damaged leaves, and cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise, from tip to trimmed end.
How to Roast Brussels Sprouts to Crispy Goodness
You may not be as much of a Brussels sprouts fiend as I am (yet!), but I bet you’ll discover your secret love for these tasty little veggies too after trying this foolproof roasting method. For a simple preparation that’s crispy outside, tender inside, and goes with just about anything, season with salt and pepper. To change it up, try the Brussels sprouts recipe variations listed below.
The Ingredients
Fresh Brussels sprouts. The ideal Brussels sprouts will be bright green and fairly firm. Try to avoid ones with lots of wilted leaves around the outside. If you want to make this recipe with frozen vegetables, see my Roasted Frozen Brussels Sprouts recipe.Olive Oil. Essential for perfectly crispy, caramelized, and flavorful sprouts! Extra virgin olive oil coats each Brussels sprout and helps it crisp up nicely in the oven. If you need to make roasted Brussels sprouts without oil, I recommend swapping in 2 teaspoons of soy sauce and omitting the added salt.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Place cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To Reheat. Add leftover cooked Brussels sprouts to a lightly oiled baking sheet. Rewarm in the oven at 350 degrees F for 5 or so minutes, until heated through. You can also reheat them on a plate in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, though the texture will be soggier than if they are reheated in the oven.To Freeze. Because they can become soggy, I don’t recommend freezing roasted Brussels sprouts. However, if you end up with lots left over, you certainly can freeze them. Place cooked, fully cooled Brussels sprouts in an airtight freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let roasted frozen Brussels sprouts thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed above.
What to Serve With Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Chicken. One of our favorite meal combinations! Lemon Butter Chicken, Sheet Pan Italian Chicken, Baked Chicken Parmesan, and Skillet Tomato Chicken would all be sublime.Salmon. For a healthy dinner that you can serve all year long, try pairing them with Lemon Pepper Salmon, Baked Salmon in Foil, or Soy Ginger Salmon.Pork. Crock Pot Pork Chops are a perfect complement to these Brussels sprouts.Pasta. Serve your roasted Brussels sprouts alongside a hearty plate of this Penne Alla Vodka.
Recommended Tools for Making Brussels Sprouts
Sheet Pans. One of my most beloved and essential kitchen tools.Fish Spatula. IDEAL for flipping pans of roasted veggies.Non-slip Cutting Board. This can help make your chopping process easier.Grater (for the Parmesan). I like a box grater box grater like this one or a coarse plane-style grater like this one.
*Health benefits of Brussels sprouts mentioned in this article were sourced from Healthline and are meant to be for general information, not any kind of specific medical advice. For specific dietary needs, I always recommend contacting your doctor or seeking a professional nutritionist’s advice.