Transform those once-dreaded Brussels sprouts into delectable dishes that will make you fall in love with this nutrient-packed vegetable.
From crispy roasted gems to creamy gratins, these six recipes will revolutionize how you prepare and enjoy this versatile ingredient.
Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or an impressive holiday preparation, you’ll discover perfect options for every occasion.
Get ready to explore honey-glazed, bacon-wrapped, pan-seared, Asian-inspired, cheesy, and Mediterranean-style Brussels sprouts that will convert even the strongest skeptics.
Crispy Honey Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a caramelized, crispy delight that will convert even the strongest skeptics.
This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar, creating an irresistible side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Clean your Brussels sprouts, trim the stems, and cut them in half lengthwise.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
Step 5: Arrange the sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 6: Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Step 7: Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese immediately after removing from the oven.
Pro Tip: To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before tossing them in the oil mixture. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give each sprout enough space to roast properly and develop that perfect golden-brown crust.
Pan-Seared Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Garlic
Transform your Brussels sprouts from boring to extraordinary with this mouthwatering pan-seared recipe.
The combination of crispy bacon, aromatic garlic, and perfectly caramelized sprouts creates a side dish that will convert even the most skeptical vegetable critics.
This recipe takes just 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with any main course.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Step 1: Prep your Brussels sprouts by trimming the stems and cutting them in half lengthwise. Remove any yellowed outer leaves.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan with bacon fat, add olive oil and place Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Let them sear untouched for 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 5-7 minutes until sprouts are tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 5: Return bacon to the pan, toss everything together, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Serve immediately.
Pro Tip: For the best caramelization, don’t overcrowd your pan – work in batches if necessary. Also, resist the urge to stir the sprouts too frequently during the initial sear; letting them sit untouched creates that perfect golden-brown crust.
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Get ready to transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a crispy, savory delight with this Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer recipe.
This dish combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with a perfectly crispy, cheesy coating that’ll make even veggie skeptics ask for seconds.
The air fryer ensures a golden-brown crust while maintaining a tender interior.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray
Step 1: Clean and trim Brussels sprouts, cutting any large ones in half. Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the seasoned sprouts and toss gently to coat.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Step 5: Arrange Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
Step 6: Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest results, make sure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before seasoning, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – work in batches if necessary.
You can also give them an extra sprinkle of Parmesan during the last 2 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy crust.
Asian-Style Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Sesame
Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into an irresistible Asian-inspired dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
This recipe creates crispy-edged sprouts glazed in a mouth-watering sauce that will convert even the most stubborn Brussels sprouts skeptics.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
Step 1: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, removing any discolored outer leaves.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: While sprouts are cooking, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl.
Step 5: Pour the sauce mixture over the sprouts, reduce heat to medium, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Step 6: Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Toss to coat evenly.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest results, don’t overcrowd your pan – cook in batches if necessary. Also, make sure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before cooking; any excess moisture will prevent proper caramelization.
Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts Slaw
Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts Slaw is a delightful twist on traditional coleslaw that combines the earthy crunch of shredded Brussels sprouts with sweet maple syrup and toasted pecans.
This refreshing side dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
• ⅓ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ medium apple, julienned
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Using a food processor with a slicing attachment or a sharp knife, shred the Brussels sprouts thinly.
Step 2: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
Step 4: Add the shredded Brussels sprouts, julienned apple, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing.
Step 5: Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 7: Let the slaw rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Pro Tip: Prepare this slaw at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the Brussels sprouts to soften slightly in the dressing. Don’t make it too far in advance though, as you want to maintain some crunch – no more than 4 hours before serving is ideal.
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin
Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a decadent, creamy side dish that will convert even the strongest Brussels sprouts skeptics.
This au gratin combines tender sprouts with a rich cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors that your dinner guests will love.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups gruyere cheese, grated
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Blanch halved Brussels sprouts in boiling water for 3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
Step 3: In a saucepan, combine cream and garlic. Simmer until reduced by one-third.
Step 4: Stir in gruyere and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Arrange Brussels sprouts in the baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them.
Step 6: Mix panko with melted butter and parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the top.
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest top layer, broil for the final 2-3 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning. Also, make sure to thoroughly dry your Brussels sprouts after blanching to prevent a watery gratin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make crispy roasted Brussels sprouts that aren’t soggy?
Roast Brussels sprouts at 400°F and avoid overcrowding the pan. Toss them with olive oil, spread in a single layer, and roast for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown.
What ingredients create the most flavorful bacon Brussels sprouts?
Combine crispy bacon pieces with maple syrup, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Cook Brussels sprouts in the remaining bacon fat for extra flavor and caramelization.
How can you transform Brussels sprouts into a creamy gratin dish?
Layer halved Brussels sprouts with heavy cream, gruyere cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and bubbly, creating a rich side dish that converts skeptics into fans.
What’s the secret to making glazed Asian-style Brussels sprouts?
Toss roasted sprouts in a sauce combining soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and sriracha. Finish with sesame seeds and green onions for an umami-packed Asian fusion dish.
How long should you parboil Brussels sprouts before pan-searing them?
Parboil for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Shock in ice water to maintain color, then pan-sear with butter until golden brown.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a longtime Brussels sprouts fan or just beginning to explore these versatile veggies, these six recipes will help you create delicious dishes that everyone will love.
Remember to choose fresh, firm sprouts and trim them properly for the best results.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your perfect match.
From roasted to sautéed, shaved to glazed, Brussels sprouts can transform from a simple side dish into the star of your meal.
