Name: Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved (quarter if very large); 2 medium garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

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Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, these Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect healthy side dish for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick oven roast, you’ll get beautifully caramelized sprouts in 30 minutes—no fuss, all flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is incredibly simple, yet delivers bold results. The high-heat roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while garlic and optional balsamic vinegar add depth and brightness. It’s a healthy, gluten-free, and naturally vegan dish that works equally well for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads. Plus, it’s ready in just half an hour with minimal prep.

Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved
garlic cloves, minced
extra virgin olive oil
fine sea salt
balsamic vinegar (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends and slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. If they’re especially large, quarter them for even roasting.
Season: On a large baking sheet, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with minced garlic, olive oil, and sea salt. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Use parchment paper for easier cleanup if desired.
Roast: Spread the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes.
Add balsamic (optional): Remove the tray from the oven, drizzle with balsamic vinegar if using, and toss again. Using tongs, flip each sprout cut side down for the best caramelization.
Finish roasting: Return to the oven and roast for another 5–10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Serve: Serve hot as a side dish or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Sweet twist: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey along with the balsamic.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before roasting.
Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika before the final roast.
Nutty crunch: Toss with toasted almonds or pecans after roasting for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat in a 400ºF oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until crispy again. Microwave works in a pinch but may soften them.

Freezer: Not recommended—Brussels sprouts tend to become mushy after freezing and thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh is best for roasting. Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to release more moisture and won’t caramelize as well.

How do I get them extra crispy?

Roast cut side down and make sure the sprouts are spread out with space between them. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.

Is the balsamic vinegar necessary?

No, it’s optional but adds a nice tangy sweetness that enhances the flavor.

Can I roast them at a higher temperature?

Yes, you can roast at 425ºF for slightly crispier edges—just reduce the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on them.

Should I peel the outer leaves?

Only if they’re damaged or wilted. A few loose leaves will crisp up nicely in the oven.

How do I prevent bitterness?

Roasting reduces bitterness by caramelizing the natural sugars. Avoid overcooking, which can bring out a bitter flavor.

What’s the best way to cut large Brussels sprouts?

Quarter them instead of halving to ensure even roasting and browning.

Can I make them ahead of time?

They’re best fresh but can be made a few hours in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.

Are roasted Brussels sprouts healthy?

Yes! They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins C and K.

What dishes go well with this?

They pair perfectly with roasted meats, chicken, fish, grain bowls, or even tossed into a salad.

Conclusion

These Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts are proof that simple ingredients can yield incredible flavor. Crispy, caramelized, and endlessly customizable, they’re a side dish you’ll want to serve on repeat—from holiday dinners to everyday meals. Try them once, and you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again.