Roasted Brussels Sprouts: the tastiest recipe for the classic holiday side dish

No holiday dinner is complete without a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. Crispy and lightly charred on the outside and tender on the inside, roasted Brussels sprouts have a rich, nutty, caramelized flavor that's hard to resist. You don't need to wait for Turkey Day to serve roasted Brussels sprouts. They're a delicious side dish with any type of roast, stew, or casserole. 

Customize your roasted Brussels sprouts any way you like – add your favorite spices or seasoning mixes, or toss in ingredients like crispy bacon, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, or lemon!

How to Pick the Perfect Brussels Sprouts for Roasting

When you're shopping for Brussels sprouts, look for bright green sprouts that are firm to touch and free from black or brown spots and yellow leaves. Smaller sprouts usually have a sweeter flavor and more tender texture, so they tend to be best for roasting.

Should You Trim Brussels Sprouts?

We highly recommend trimming your Brussels sprouts before roasting them. This will give you more tender sprouts that look better on the plate. To trim, simply cut the stem off the bottom of the sprout, then slice the Brussel sprout in half.

Your Must-Have Tips for Making the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Larger Brussels sprouts may take longer to cook, while smaller sprouts will be ready more quickly. Make sure to keep an eye on them so they don't burn.

A little char tastes delicious, but cook the sprouts to your desired level of doneness.

Place the Brussels sprouts flat side down for deeper browning and more crisp.

Add any additional seasonings you like. Some popular options are garlic salt, Old Bay, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and lemon pepper.

Other tasty ingredients to add to your roasted sprouts include bacon, pancetta, maple syrup, lemon juice, parmesan, vinegar, or tahini dressing.

What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a phenomenal side dish for a huge variety of dishes. Serve them with pot roasts, baked chicken, creamy pork chops, steak, pan-fried fish, pasta dishes, and more.

These easy roasted sprouts are also fantastic when mixed with roasted potatoes, squash, pumpkin, and carrots. Just about any main meal can be made even better with a side of Brussels sprouts!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Variations

You can really get creative when it comes to roasted Brussels sprouts variations. Try adding bacon or pancetta, for ultra-tasty sprouts.

Maple syrup, honey, and brown sugar are great ways to add a hint of sweetness to this savory dish.

If you like spice, cayenne pepper or red chili flakes are amazing additions.

Roasted Brussels sprouts also taste wonderful with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

How to Store Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Place cooled roasted Brussels sprouts into an airtight container and enjoy within 4 days.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400F.

Trim and half the Brussels sprouts.

Put the sprouts in a bowl. Season with salt, and pepper.

Add the olive oil.

Toss well to coat.

Arrange the Brussels sprouts in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until crispy and browned.

If desired, season with extra salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy!