Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant, crispy, and utterly delicious way to enjoy your vegetables, this recipe for Roasted Brussels Sprouts is an absolute game changer. They come out caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor thanks to a simple yet perfect combination of shallots, bell peppers, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Whether you’re making a weeknight family dinner or a special holiday side, Roasted Brussels Sprouts bring color, texture, and a rich savory note that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about using straightforward ingredients that work together beautifully to create layers of flavor and wonderful textures. Each component is essential to boost the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts while adding brightness and depth.

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh, trimmed, and halved for even roasting and maximum crispness.
• Shallots: Thinly sliced to add a mild onion sweetness that caramelizes perfectly alongside the sprouts.
• Bell peppers (red or orange): Cut into chunks, these add a pop of vibrant color and a juicy bite that balances the earthiness.
• Balsamic vinegar: A splash at the end gives a tangy sweetness that brightens everything.
• Coarse salt and ground pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Olive or melted coconut oil: This helps everything roast to a golden brown with a slightly crispy edge.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to a hot 425 degrees Fahrenheit (or 220 Celsius). The high heat is key for developing that gorgeous caramelized exterior that Roasted Brussels Sprouts are famous for. It helps the natural sugars in the veggies to brown beautifully without turning mushy.

Step 2: Toss the Vegetables

Place your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts, sliced shallots, and roughly chopped bell peppers in a large bowl. Drizzle 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive or melted coconut oil over them and toss everything together until each piece is lightly coated. You want a good, even layer of oil to help with roasting and flavor absorption. Sprinkle generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper, which are essential to bring out all the wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Roast and Stir

Spread the coated vegetables evenly on a rimmed baking sheet to ensure they roast rather than steam. Pop the pan into the oven and roast for 15 minutes until the edges start to brown. Then take them out to stir carefully, turning the veggies so they get even caramelization. Return to the oven and roast another 15 to 20 minutes, watching for a deep, golden color and tender texture. This step is what takes Roasted Brussels Sprouts from good to unforgettable.

Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar

Once roasted perfectly, take the pan out and immediately drizzle the vegetables with balsamic vinegar. This adds an irresistible tang and a bit of silkiness that contrasts wonderfully with the roasted flavors. Serve them up while they’re still warm and fresh for the best experience.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

To elevate your Roasted Brussels Sprouts, try sprinkling some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts on top for crunch, or add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a savory touch. A few red pepper flakes can give a subtle kick if you like a little heat, and finishing with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the whole dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and work beautifully alongside roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. They also pair well with creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or even a hearty grain salad. Think of them as the perfect middle ground—a veggie side that will win over even the pickiest eaters with their bold flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Roasted Brussels Sprouts tossed with cooked quinoa and feta cheese for a hearty salad. Or pile them onto a toasted baguette with a smear of goat cheese and a drizzle of honey for a sophisticated sandwich. You can even add them as a topping on pizza or mix into a warm pasta dish for instant flavor and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain most of their crispy texture if reheated properly.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for Roasted Brussels Sprouts because the texture tends to suffer upon thawing, becoming mushy. For the best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerate leftovers within a couple of days.

Reheating

To reheat your Roasted Brussels Sprouts, pop them in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil or spread them on a baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes. This will help revive their crisp edges and bring back much of their original roasted charm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor when roasting. Frozen ones tend to release extra moisture and can become soggy, but if that’s what you have, be sure to thaw and pat them very dry before roasting.

What if I don’t have shallots?

Shallots add a subtle sweetness and mild onion flavor, but you can substitute them with thinly sliced red onions or sweet yellow onions to keep a similar taste profile.

Is coconut oil really a good option for roasting?

Absolutely! Coconut oil has a high smoke point like olive oil and adds a subtle nutty flavor that works wonderfully with Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Plus, it’s a great alternative if you prefer a dairy-free or different oil option.

How do I get my Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

High oven temperature, enough oil to coat the vegetables, and spacing them out on a baking sheet so they aren’t crowded all help achieve that crisp roasted exterior you’re craving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! The recipe as is is already vegan-friendly. Just use olive or coconut oil and skip any cheese toppings if you add them later.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that turns even skeptics into fans thanks to its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and quick prep mean you can enjoy something super flavorful any day of the week. Give it a try and watch these little green gems become an instant favorite on your table!

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