Crispy, caramelized perfection for your holiday table
These classic roasted Brussels sprouts are the ultimate holiday side dish. With golden-brown edges and a tender center, they're the perfect balance of crispy and cozy. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Whether you're hosting a Christmas dinner or a cozy family gathering, these Brussels sprouts will steal the show. Their caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with turkey, prime rib, or even a festive cheese board.
The secret to perfect roasting is simple: high heat, the right oil, and a touch of sea salt. The result is a side dish that's both comforting and elegant, with a satisfying crunch that guests will love.
This recipe is designed for holiday menus, with make-ahead options and easy preparation. The crispy texture and rich flavor make these sprouts a standout side that's sure to become a tradition.
Ready to elevate your holiday table with this crowd-pleasing classic? Let's get started!
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Perfect Texture
The high heat roasts the sprouts until they're crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with beautiful caramelized edges.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Brussels sprouts are affordable and versatile, making this recipe a cost-effective holiday side dish.
👥 Easy to Customize
Add bacon, balsamic glaze, or Parmesan to suit your guests' preferences and elevate the flavor profile.
🌟 Holiday Favorite
This classic side dish is a crowd-pleaser that complements any festive main course, from turkey to prime rib.
Classic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy, caramelized holiday side
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp sea salt
- - 1/2 tsp black pepper
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep the Sprouts: Trim the ends and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, pepper, and garlic.
💡 Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and even roasting.
Roast: Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, shaking the pan halfway.
💡 For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Serve: Toss with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or Parmesan before serving.
💡 Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts
Choose firm, compact sprouts with bright green leaves. Look for sprouts that are roughly the same size for even roasting.
Substitutions: Broccoli or cauliflower florets for a different texture.
Olive Oil
Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and high smoke point. Avoid light olive oil as it lacks flavor.
Substitutions: Avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste profile.
Sea Salt
Sea salt enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts. Adjust to taste, especially if using pre-salted olive oil.
Substitutions: Kosher salt or a pinch of smoked salt for depth.
Garlic
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Use a microplane to mince for maximum surface area.
Substitutions: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp) or roasted garlic for a milder taste.
Pro Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
🔥 High Heat is Key
Roast at 425°F (220°C) to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
🥄 Tossing Technique
Ensure the sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasoning for consistent roasting.
🧂 Seasoning Secrets
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
📸 Presentation Tips
Arrange the sprouts on a wooden board with a drizzle of olive oil for a festive presentation.
Variations & Customizations
Bacon-Wrapped Sprouts
Wrap each sprout half in a slice of bacon and roast as directed. Add a sweet glaze of maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
Cheesy Delight
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a melty, cheesy version.
Asian-Inspired
Toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey before roasting. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
Herb-Crusted
Mix chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley with the olive oil for a fragrant, herb-packed version.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Herb-roasted turkey with gravy
- Cranberry sauce with orange zest
- Garlic mashed potatoes
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a spiced mulled wine for a festive touch.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Roast the sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep cooled sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked sprouts for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain crispiness. Avoid reheating more than once for best results.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My sprouts are too soggy. What did I do wrong?
A: They might not have been tossed with enough oil or roasted at a low temperature. Ensure they're spread in a single layer on a hot baking sheet.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A: It's best to use fresh sprouts for optimal texture. Frozen sprouts will release more moisture and won't crisp as nicely.
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Roast in batches if necessary, and shake the pan halfway through cooking.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes! Try adding sliced sweet potatoes or red onions for a colorful, flavorful mix.
Final Thoughts
These classic roasted Brussels sprouts are more than just a side dish—they're a holiday tradition waiting to happen. With their perfect balance of crispy and tender textures, they'll become a favorite at every festive gathering.
Whether you're serving them alongside a juicy turkey or a prime rib roast, these sprouts add a touch of elegance to any holiday table. Don't be surprised when guests ask for the recipe and request seconds!
Give this recipe a try this holiday season, and you'll never go back to boring, soggy Brussels sprouts again. Happy cooking!
