Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Your New Favorite Side Dish

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap — but once you roast them just right, they transform into golden, crispy, caramelized bites that are impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays or just a Tuesday night dinner, this easy oven-roasted Brussels sprouts recipe will change the way you think about this humble veggie.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll unlock big, bold flavor and an irresistible texture that works as a side dish or even a healthy snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy on the outside, tender inside
Naturally sweet and nutty when roasted
Quick & easy – ready in 30 minutes
Low carb, gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily vegan
Perfect for holidays or weeknight meals

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

500g Brussels sprouts, fresh and firm
3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Pro tip: Choose Brussels sprouts that are tight, green, and about the same size so they cook evenly.

How to Prepare Brussels Sprouts for Roasting

Before you even turn on the oven, prep is key. Clean, trim, and cut the Brussels sprouts to get that perfect roast.

Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove dirt or debris.
Trim off the stem end with a sharp knife.
Remove any damaged or yellow outer leaves.
Cut each sprout in half, especially the larger ones — this ensures more caramelization and even cooking.

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 200°C / 400°F. A hot oven is essential for that crispy texture and golden color.

Step 2: Toss with Olive Oil & Seasonings

Place the halved sprouts on a baking tray lined with parchment. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

Don’t skip the garlic powder – it adds a rich, umami flavor that enhances the natural nuttiness of the sprouts.

Step 3: Spread Them Out

Arrange the sprouts cut side down in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding – use a second tray if necessary.

Why it matters: When sprouts are too close, they steam instead of roast — and you want those crispy edges!

Step 4: Roast

Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re aiming for:

Deep golden brown edges
Crispy outside, soft inside
A hint of caramelization on the flat side

Step 5: Finish with Lemon (Optional)

Just before serving, drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for a pop of freshness.

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

Want to level up your Brussels sprouts? Try these:

Bacon & Brussels – add cooked, crumbled bacon after roasting
Sweet Heat – drizzle with honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes
Cheesy Finish – sprinkle with parmesan in the last 5 minutes of roasting
Spicy Kick – toss with chili flakes or hot sauce before roasting
Zesty Vibes – lemon zest + juice + a sprinkle of sea salt at the end

What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This side dish pairs well with just about anything:

Roasted chicken or turkey
Grilled salmon or steak
Quinoa bowls or grain salads
Mac and cheese or creamy pasta
Holiday mains like glazed ham or beef tenderloin

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispness
Freezer: Not ideal – sprouts lose texture after freezing

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

Calories: 140 kcal
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 300mg

Healthy, low in carbs, and high in fiber — this is a veggie that pulls double duty.

Final Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts

Always roast cut-side down — that’s where the magic happens.
Don’t skimp on oil — it helps the edges crisp, not burn.
Use fresh Brussels sprouts, not frozen (unless air-frying).
Season before roasting for maximum flavor absorption.

Final Thoughts

These crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are proof that the right technique turns even the most underrated vegetable into a total crowd-pleaser. They’re quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable — and they belong on your dinner table.

Save this recipe, share it on Pinterest, or bookmark it for the holidays.
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