Brussels sprouts are one of those veggies that may be a touch disappointing at times. It’s one of the most nutritious members of the cruciferous family (and a personal favorite of mine), but the texture may make it difficult to consume at times.
I’m constantly searching for new methods to make Brussels sprouts more appealing, and this is the outcome. Roasted Brussels sprouts are soft and aromatic in the inside, with a crunchy and crispy outside. I like to top mine with bacon pieces for a little more taste.
I’ve published this recipe before, but I wanted to offer it again with a new twist, particularly now that we’re in the thick of October.
The nicest thing about this dish is that it can be made in 20 minutes with just a few ingredients. What exactly are you waiting for? Start roasting!
A helpful idea is to carefully wash the brussels sprouts before roasting them. Many recipes call for just steaming them, but I like to bake them.
Contents
- Tips and Tricks for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- How To Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits
- How to Store and Make Ahead of Time
- What Side Dishes To Use With Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Bits Variations
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits
- FAQs
- Why are my roasted brussel sprouts not crispy?
- Should I cover brussel sprouts when roasting?
- Should brussel sprouts be soaked before roasting?
- How does Rachael Ray cook brussel sprouts?
- How do you cook Ina Garten brussel sprouts?
- Is it best to blanch brussel sprouts before roasting?
- Should brussel sprouts be parboiled before roasting?
- What gives brussel sprouts a better taste?
- Which side up when roasting brussel sprouts?
Tips and Tricks for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Roasting brussels sprouts may be done in a variety of ways. Toss them in olive oil and spices before placing them on a sheet pan. Cook for 20-25 minutes at 400°F. If you want to save time, purchase pre-cut brussels sprouts and cook them whole in a roasting pan. This will take around half the time!
- Roast the sprouts in a pan that is slightly larger than the brussels sprouts for the finest taste. Brussels sprouts want space to breathe, so don’t overcrowd them in a small pan.
- Sprouts are incredibly adaptable. You may include them into salads, sandwiches, and even soups.
- If you find brussels sprouts to be too bitter, blanch them for 2-5 minutes before roasting.
- Fry your bacon pieces in coconut or olive oil to make them extra crispy. Dip them in chocolate instead if you want.
- Use a convection oven to cook these.
- I like my brussels sprouts slightly crispy.
- Purchase big, entire brussels sprouts. The cooking time will be lot less if you purchase smaller, shredded, or chopped ones.
- When cutting the sprouts, try to split them in half. They will cook unevenly if you leave them whole.
How To Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a bowl, combine the bacon pieces. Season with salt and pepper after adding the olive oil. Toss them together until evenly combined.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and onion in a large mixing basin. Then, pour in the bacon mixture.
- Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the sprouts are withered and light brown.
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese. Return the pan to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the sprouts are thoroughly cooked and the edges are slightly crisped.
How to Store and Make Ahead of Time
I suggest keeping the roasted brussels sprouts in the refrigerator for this dish. You’ll want to make sure they don’t go soft since they’ll be resting there for a few days.
If using pre-cut brussels sprouts, keep them in a zip-top bag. If you want to cut your own brussels sprouts, combine them with the bacon pieces in an airtight container.
Because the meal is best eaten hot, you can either warm it up on the stove or let it cool before reheating it in the oven.
What Side Dishes To Use With Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are well-known for being a nutritious side dish. But you’d be amazed how much a meal may benefit from include a fiber and protein-rich side dish!
They may always be served with mashed potatoes. They’re a great combination!
Or, opt for a salad of any kind.
Try one of these for a certain winner of a side dish!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Bits Variations
Roasting your own Brussels sprouts is both easy and tasty. So here are a few versions that I’ve tried throughout the years. Which of them is your favorite?
Roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic
Alternatively, use grated Parmesan.When your Brussels sprouts are done, sprinkle them with cut garlic cloves. You may also top it with lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Alternatively, use grated Parmesan.Place your roasted sprouts on a serving plate and sprinkle with thick balsamic vinegar, balsamic sauce, or reduction. Finish with a sprinkling of lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with sausage
Finish with a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese and sautéed chopped Italian sausage.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with ham
Finish your serving tray with ham slices and a sprinkling of mustard or horseradish.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with chorizo
Gently combine a couple of pieces of cooked chorizo and your favorite shredded cheese. Sprinkle it over your dish of Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with cheddar and bacon
Alternatively, use grated Parmesan.Drizzle with thick balsamic vinegar, glaze, or reduction. Finish with a sprinkling of lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with a cheesy touch
Alternatively, use grated Parmesan.Sprinkle with shredded or grated mozzarella cheese to taste. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, glaze, or reduction to taste. Finish with a sprinkling of lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits
Ingredients
- Large, whole brussels sprouts
- Bacon bits
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Parmesan cheese
- Onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a bowl, combine the bacon pieces. Season with salt and pepper after adding the olive oil. Toss them together until evenly combined.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and onion in a large mixing basin. Then, pour in the bacon mixture.
- Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the sprouts are withered and light brown.
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese. Return the pan to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the sprouts are thoroughly cooked and the edges are slightly crisped.
FAQs
Why are my roasted brussel sprouts not crispy?
Recipe Hints & Tips
If the pan is overcrowded, the Brussels sprouts will simmer rather than roast and will not be crispy. Assemble them in a single layer so that air may flow. To roast, cut it in half. Cut your Brussels sprouts in half to optimize the flat portions that obtain the most crispy surface area.
Should I cover brussel sprouts when roasting?
Brussels sprouts should be covered and steamed in the oven for 10 minutes before roasting till crispy for 9 to 12 minutes.
Should brussel sprouts be soaked before roasting?
It is not necessary to soak brussels sprouts before roasting them. Simply wash the brussels sprouts, remove the outer (dirty) leaves, and cut the bottoms. Throw away the excess leaves and bits. Clean brussels sprouts are cut in half and placed on a baking pan.
How does Rachael Ray cook brussel sprouts?
Cook Brussels sprouts for 2 to 3 minutes to soften before adding broth. Bring broth to a boil, then cover and lower to a medium low heat. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. With a slotted spoon, transfer sprouts to a serving dish and top with fried bacon pieces.
How do you cook Ina Garten brussel sprouts?
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim the Brussels sprouts’ ends and remove any yellow outer leaves. Combine them with the olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until crisp on the exterior and soft on the inside.
Is it best to blanch brussel sprouts before roasting?
Blanching the brussels sprouts should always be your initial step. This is when they are immersed in boiling water for a few minutes, not until completely cooked, but just long enough to remove some of the bitterness. Blanching also softens them and keeps their vibrant green hue.
Should brussel sprouts be parboiled before roasting?
Unlike other vegetables, Brussels sprouts may be parboiled ahead of time (even a day ahead) to minimize roasting time without compromising texture. This means that the sprouts may be baked while the meat rests before slicing. The oven will be free for roasting if the main dish is grilled or pan-cooked.
What gives brussel sprouts a better taste?
Sourness in a meal is very helpful in balancing the tastes. Add lemon juice, pungent Dijon mustard, a splash of dry white wine, cider vinegar, or a drizzle of your favorite salad dressing to break through the strong taste of Brussels sprouts.
Which side up when roasting brussel sprouts?
Place the brussel sprouts on a rimmed baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops and bottoms of the sprouts are caramelized and brown, and the cores are creamy. Serve right away.