a metal baking tray with browned and roasted halved garlic roasted brussels sprouts on an elegant fall dining table surrounded by other fall side dishes and entrees.

Amazing Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic (with video)

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Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap. But roasted with garlic, they’re a whole new veggie. This easy recipe will change your mind about these little green gems. So here is my amazing recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic.

Fresh Brussels sprouts are the star here. When roasted, their outer leaves get crispy and golden brown. The inside stays tender and flavorful.

This simple recipe uses just a few ingredients. Olive oil, fresh garlic, and black pepper do most of the work. You can add parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

A sheet pan is your best friend for this dish. It helps the sprouts cook evenly and get crispy all over. No soggy veggies here!

This Brussels sprouts recipe is more than just a side dish. It might become your new favorite way to eat veggies. Even kids who usually say “no” to greens might give these a try.

Ready to give it a shot? Let’s dive into this delicious and easy recipe.

JUMP TO RECIPE

a ceramic serving platter with browned and roasted halved garlic roasted brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic vinegar and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme and lemon slices on an elegant fall dining table surrounded by other fall side dishes and entrees.

Why Roasted Brussels Sprouts Are a Popular Side Dish

Roasted Brussels sprouts have become a favorite side dish for many. They’re easy to make and taste great. Plus, they’re good for you.

When roasted, Brussels sprouts get crispy outer leaves. The inside stays tender. This mix of textures makes them fun to eat.

You can flavor them in many ways. Garlic, olive oil, and black pepper are classic choices. Some people add parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

They go well with lots of main dishes. From chicken to fish to vegetarian meals, these sprouts fit right in. It’s no wonder they’re so popular!

Think You Hate Brussels Sprouts? Here’s Why

Many people think they hate Brussels sprouts. Often, this is because they’ve only had them boiled. Boiling can make them mushy and bitter.

Roasting is a game-changer for these veggies. It brings out their natural sweetness. The outer leaves get crispy and golden brown.

Adding flavors like fresh garlic or olive oil helps too. These ingredients balance out any bitterness. Even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can make a big difference.

Try this easy recipe before you write off Brussels sprouts. You might be surprised how delicious they can be. They could become your new favorite side dish!

The Role of Garlic in Elevating Flavor

Garlic plays a big role in making Brussels sprouts taste great. Its strong flavor pairs well with the slightly bitter sprouts. When roasted, garlic becomes sweet and mellow.

Fresh garlic is best for this recipe. It gives a more intense flavor than garlic powder. Mince it finely and mix it with olive oil before coating the sprouts.

As the Brussels sprouts roast, the garlic infuses them with flavor. It also gets crispy and golden brown along with the outer leaves. This adds a nice crunch to your side dish.

Don’t be shy with the garlic. It’s a key part of making these sprouts a crowd-pleaser.

shopping for brussels sprouts in a grocery store trying to find fresh ones

Ingredients Overview for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Selecting Fresh, Firm Sprouts

Picking good Brussels sprouts is key to this recipe. Look for bright green, firm sprouts. Smaller sprouts are often sweeter and more tender.

Avoid sprouts with yellow or loose leaves. These might be old. Fresh sprouts should feel heavy for their size.

If you can, buy them on the stalk. They’ll stay fresh longer this way. But loose sprouts work fine too.

Before cooking, trim the ends with a sharp knife. Remove any damaged outer leaves. Then, cut larger sprouts in half. This helps them cook evenly and get those crispy edges everyone loves.

Remember, fresh ingredients make for the best side dishes. Good sprouts are the first step to incredible flavor.

Fresh Garlic: Maximizing Flavor with Garlic

Fresh garlic is key to this delicious recipe. It adds incredible flavor to the Brussels sprouts. This is not the time to skimp and use garlic powder. Use a sharp knife to mince the garlic finely, or (even better) get a handy chopper like this one from Amazon and get it done in seconds.

You can adjust the amount to your taste. More garlic means more flavor. But don’t overdo it, as it can overpower the sprouts.

For easy prep, mince the garlic while the oven preheats. This saves time and lets the flavors meld. Mix the minced garlic with oil in a large bowl before adding the sprouts.

Roasting brings out garlic’s sweetness. It caramelizes in the hot oven, creating a rich taste. This makes garlic Brussels sprouts a hit at holiday dinners.

Olive Oil and Seasonings: Salt, Pepper, and Optional Add-Ins

Olive oil is crucial for crispy Brussels sprouts. It helps them roast evenly and get golden brown. Avocado oil is a great option too. But with olive oil, ALWAYS get extra-virgin olive oil; every other type of olive oil is toxic garbage.

Salt and pepper are must-haves. They bring out the sprouts’ natural flavor. But don’t stop there. Try adding lemon zest for brightness or red pepper flakes for heat.

Mix everything in a large bowl. This ensures each sprout is well-coated. For extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Remember, these seasonings are flexible. You can change them based on your taste or the time of year. This versatility makes Brussels sprouts perfect for holiday dinners or everyday side dishes.

Experiment with different ways to season. You might find a new favorite combination!

Parmesan Cheese: Optional but Flavorful Addition

Parmesan cheese is a tasty add-on for garlic Brussels sprouts. It’s not required, but it adds incredible flavor. The cheese gets crispy in the hot oven, creating delicious edges.

Grate fresh Parmesan with a sharp knife or grater. Add it to the sprouts before or after roasting. Before roasting, it mixes with the oil for a rich coating. After roasting, it adds a salty crunch.

For best results, use real Parmesan, not the powdered kind. A little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.

This cheesy twist makes Brussels sprouts perfect for holiday dinners. It turns a simple side dish into something special.

trimming and halving brussels sprouts on a cutting board with a pile on minced garlic next to them

Preparation Steps for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Trimming and Halving the Brussels Sprouts

Preparing Brussels sprouts is easy. Start by rinsing them under cold water. Then, use a sharp knife to trim off the tough bottom stem.

Next, cut the sprouts in half from top to bottom. This helps them cook faster and get crispy edges. Smaller sprouts can be left whole if you prefer.

As you cut, remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. These can burn in the hot oven. Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl.

This prep work only takes a few minutes. It’s an important step for delicious, crispy Brussels sprouts. The cut sides will caramelize nicely, adding incredible flavor to your side dish.

Mincing or Chopping Garlic for Optimal Flavor

Mincing garlic is key for flavorful garlic Brussels sprouts. Use a sharp knife to chop it finely. Smaller pieces spread better among the halved Brussels sprouts.

For quick prep, try a garlic press like this one on Amazon. It gives very fine garlic in seconds. Mix the minced garlic with oil in a large bowl before adding the sprouts.

This step adds incredible flavor to your side dish.

Coating Sprouts with Olive Oil and Seasonings

After prepping your sprouts, it’s time to add flavor. Put the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil or avocado oil.

Next, add your seasonings. Salt and pepper are must-haves. Minced garlic adds great flavor. You can also try red pepper flakes or lemon zest for extra kick.

Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together. Make sure each sprout is well-coated. This helps them get crispy edges in the hot oven.

Don’t skimp on the oil. It helps the sprouts roast evenly and get golden brown. Just a few minutes of prep time here makes a big difference in your final dish.

placing a metal baking sheet of halved brussels sprouts topped with minced garlic into an oven

Cooking Instructions for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Temperature and Time (400°F for 20-30 Minutes)

For perfect garlic Brussels sprouts, preheat your oven to 400°F. This hot temperature is key for crispy edges. Spread the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet or in a cast iron skillet.

Roast for 20-30 minutes total. Smaller sprouts might be done sooner, while larger ones take longer. The best part is when they turn golden brown and smell amazing.

Halfway through cooking, give the pan a shake. This helps the sprouts cook evenly. They’re done when the outer leaves are crispy and the insides are tender.

This cooking method brings out incredible flavor. It’s great for holiday dinners or everyday side dishes.

Achieving Crispy, Golden Brown Edges

Crispy edges are the best part of roasted Brussels sprouts. To get them, make sure your oven is hot before you start. A preheated oven at 400°F works great.

Spread the halved Brussels sprouts in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan. This lets hot air circulate, making the edges crispy.

Halfway through cooking, flip the sprouts. Use a sharp knife to check if they’re done. The outside should be dark golden brown. The inside should be tender.

If needed, cook a few minutes longer. Those crispy edges add incredible flavor to this delicious side dish. It’s worth the extra time for perfect results.

Tossing Midway Through for Even Cooking

Halfway through roasting, it’s time to toss your Brussels sprouts. This step is key for even cooking. Open the hot oven and carefully shake the pan or use a spatula to flip the sprouts.

This helps all sides get crispy and golden brown. It also prevents burning. If some sprouts are cooking faster, move them to the center of the pan.

Tossing gives you a chance to check doneness too. Smaller sprouts might be ready sooner. Larger ones might need more time. This quick step ensures your garlic Brussels sprouts turn out perfect.

Remember, steam is hot! Be careful when you open the oven. Your delicious side dish is almost ready.

Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness

Want extra crispy Brussels sprouts? Try broiling them at the end. This step is optional but adds amazing texture. It’s great for holiday dinners when you want to impress.

After roasting, switch your oven to broil. Keep a close eye on the sprouts. They can burn quickly under the broiler. About 2-3 minutes is usually enough.

The high heat makes the edges super crispy. It also caramelizes the garlic, adding incredible flavor. Your halved Brussels sprouts will have a nice golden-brown color.

Remember, every oven is different. Watch closely the first time you try this. Soon, you’ll find the perfect broiling time for your taste.

trimming and halving brussels sprouts on a cutting board with a pile on minced garlic and diced pancetta next to them

Recipe Variations for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Adding Bacon or Pancetta

Want to take your garlic Brussels sprouts up a notch? Try adding bacon or pancetta. These salty meats add incredible flavor to this side dish.

Cut the bacon into small pieces with a sharp knife. Add it to the pan with your halved Brussels sprouts. As it cooks, the fat will coat the sprouts, making them extra crispy.

For best results, use a cast iron skillet. It holds heat well, perfect for crisping both the meat and the sprouts. Toss everything in the hot oven and roast as usual.

This version is great for holiday dinners. The bacon adds richness that people love. Just remember, it changes the daily values for fat and salt.

Using Lemon Juice or Balsamic Vinegar for Tanginess

Want to add some zing to your Brussels sprouts? Try lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. These tangy flavors work great with garlic and make a healthy side dish.

Add a splash of lemon juice right after roasting. It brightens up the flavors of these root vegetables. Or, drizzle some balsamic vinegar before serving. It adds a sweet and sour taste.

These additions are a good way to change up the recipe. They’re great for pairing with different main courses. Plus, lemon adds extra vitamin C to your meal.

Remember, a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Incorporating Herbs like Rosemary or Thyme

Herbs can take your roasted Brussels sprouts to the next level. Rosemary and thyme are great choices. They pair well with garlic and add depth to this healthy side dish.

Chop fresh herbs finely and mix them with the sprouts before roasting. Or, add dried herbs to your seasoning mix. They’ll infuse the sprouts with flavor as they cook.

For a twist, try making garlic butter with herbs. Melt it over the hot sprouts right after roasting. This is a good way to add extra flavor to your perfect sprouts.

Remember, herbs are a great addition to many healthy recipes. They add taste without extra calories.

Sweet Additions: Honey or Brown Sugar

If you like a sweet twist, try adding honey or brown sugar to your Brussels sprouts. These ingredients balance out the garlic’s sharpness. They also help the sprouts caramelize, making them even more delicious.

Drizzle a little honey over the sprouts before roasting. Or, sprinkle some brown sugar in your seasoning mix. The heat will melt it, creating a sweet glaze.

This variation turns a healthy side dish into something special. It’s a great addition to holiday meals. Just remember, it adds extra calories to your dish.

For best results, use these sweet additions sparingly. A little goes a long way in bringing out the sprouts’ natural flavors.

garlic roasted brussels sprouts in a tupperware container on a kitchen counter

Storage and Reheating for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Storing Leftovers in the Refrigerator

Leftover roasted Brussels sprouts? No problem! They store well in the fridge. Let them cool to room temperature first.

Then, put them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents odors from spreading. They’ll stay good for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

These leftovers make a great addition to other meals. Add them to salads or grain bowls for a quick, healthy side dish. You can even chop them up and add them to omelets or frittatas.

Remember, stored sprouts might lose some crispiness. But they’ll still taste great and keep their vitamin C content.

Reheating Tips to Maintain Crispiness

Want to keep your leftover Brussels sprouts crispy? The oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F before reheating.

Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. This gives them more surface area to crisp up. Heat for about 5 minutes, or until they’re warm and crispy again.

For extra flavor, toss them with a bit of garlic butter before reheating. It’s a good way to bring back that fresh-roasted taste.

Avoid using the microwave if possible. It can make the sprouts soggy. The oven helps maintain that perfect texture you love in roasted root vegetables.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Pairing with Main Dishes like Chicken, Salmon, or Pork

Roasted Brussels sprouts go well with many main courses. They’re a perfect match for chicken, salmon, or pork dishes. The garlic flavor complements these proteins nicely.

For a healthy meal, pair them with grilled chicken breast. They also taste great alongside a juicy pork chop. With salmon, the sprouts add a nice crunch to balance the fish’s softness.

These sprouts are more than just a side dish. They’re a great addition to your plate, adding color and nutrients. Plus, they help make your meal more filling without adding too many calories.

Try them with different main courses to find your favorite combo.

Using Roasted Brussels Sprouts in Salads or Grain Bowls

Roasted Brussels sprouts aren’t just a side dish. They’re great in salads and grain bowls too. Their crispy texture adds a nice crunch to these meals.

For a quick lunch, toss cold sprouts into a green salad. Or, add them to quinoa or rice for a hearty grain bowl. The garlic flavor mixes well with other veggies and dressings.

This is a good way to use up leftovers. It also helps you eat more vegetables in your daily diet. Plus, the vitamin C in Brussels sprouts stays intact when they’re cold.

Try chopping them up for smaller bites in your salad. They’ll spread the flavor throughout your meal.

tossing halved brussels sprouts, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a mixing bowl on a kitchen counter

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 4-6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
  • Salt to taste (or ½ teaspoon kosher salt)
  • Black pepper to taste (or ¼ teaspoon)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Optional additions:

  • Additional lemon
  • Herbs
  • Red pepper flakes

Notes:

  • Garlic amount can be adjusted to taste.
  • Olive oil amount varies; use enough to coat the Brussels sprouts well.
  • If using both balsamic vinegar and lemon juice reduce the quantities as shown. Adjust to your preference.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a rack in the upper third of your oven.
  2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts:
    • Trim the bottom of the Brussels sprouts.
    • Slice each in half from top to bottom.
  3. In a large bowl or directly on a rimmed baking sheet, combine:
    • Brussels sprouts
    • Olive oil
    • Garlic
    • Salt and pepper
    • Optional: lemon juice, other desired spices
  4. Mix everything to combine well, ensuring the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet:
    • Option 1: Spread in a single layer, cut-side down for better crisping.
    • Option 2: If using a cast-iron pan, place cut side down in one layer.
  6. Cook until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown on the edges, lightly charred, crisp on the outside, and tender in the center.
  7. Optional finishing touches:
    • Drizzle on balsamic vinegar.
    • Top with Parmesan cheese if not added earlier.
    • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot or warm.

Notes:

  • Cooking time may vary based on the size of your Brussels sprouts. Watch carefully towards the end of the baking time.
  • The dish can be enjoyed immediately or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic are a tasty treat. This easy recipe turns a once-hated veggie into a family favorite. The crispy outer leaves and tender insides make for a perfect bite.

Using a sheet pan is the best way to get that golden brown color. A drizzle of olive oil and some fresh garlic are key. Don’t forget the black pepper for extra kick.

This simple recipe is great for beginners. It’s hard to mess up, and the results are always delicious. You can even add parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Brussels sprouts are good for you too. They’re packed with nutrients and fiber. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness.

Try this easy side dish at your next meal. It goes well with almost anything. You might find it becomes your new favorite way to eat veggies.

Remember, fresh Brussels sprouts work best. But frozen ones can do in a pinch. Either way, you’re in for a tasty treat.

Check Out All My Holiday Recipes

Amazing Thanksgiving Stuffing
Amazing Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Simple Roasted Zucchini and Parmesan
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts

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Jeff Campbell
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