Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A crispy, golden-brown side dish that converts sprout skeptics
KEY INFO:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 as a side
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
• Large baking sheet (or two if doubling recipe)
• Parchment paper (or aluminum foil)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ pounds (680g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
[Sub: avocado oil]
• ¾ teaspoon (4g) sea salt
• ½ teaspoon (2g) black pepper
Optional add-ins:
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
METHOD:
1. Position rack in middle of oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C)
2. Trim Brussels sprouts ends and halve lengthwise
Remove any discolored outer leaves
3. Toss sprouts in mixing bowl with oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated
4. Spread on lined baking sheet cut-side down
Leave space between sprouts – overcrowding is the enemy of crispiness!
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway
Look for deep golden edges and tender centers
6. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness
Watch carefully to prevent burning
CRUCIAL TIPS:
• Choose bright green, tight sprouts roughly the same size
• Dry thoroughly after washing to ensure crispiness
• Don’t skimp on oil – it helps with caramelization
• Never overcrowd the pan
STORAGE & SCALING:
• Keeps 4 days refrigerated in airtight container
• Reheat at 300°F until warm
• Double recipe using two baking sheets
• Best served immediately while crispy
VARIATIONS:
• Lemon-Parmesan: Add zest and grated cheese after roasting
• Spicy: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes before roasting
• Asian-Style: Drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce after cooking
• Holiday: Top with toasted pecans and dried cranberries
COMMON MISTAKES:
• Using wet sprouts
• Overcrowding the pan
• Not enough oil
• Skipping the halfway stir
• Not cutting uniformly
I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, and these truly are the crispiest, most flavorful Brussels sprouts you’ll ever make. The key is getting that gorgeous caramelization while keeping the centers tender. Trust me – even sprout skeptics come back for seconds!