Simple Crispy Roasted Sprouts
This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with minimal effort, transforming a humble vegetable into a delicious and addictive side dish.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim off the tough, woody ends of each sprout and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. For larger sprouts, cut them in half lengthwise. For smaller ones, you can leave them whole or halve them for more crispy surface area. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until all the sprouts are evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is space between each sprout; overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of roast and become soggy.
Roast for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and give the sprouts a good shake or use a spatula to flip them, ensuring different sides get exposed to the heat.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sprouts are deeply browned, tender on the inside, and crispy on the outside. Some leaves will be dark and crispy, which is desirable.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the pan: Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure the sprouts are in a single layer with space between them. This prevents steaming and promotes crispiness.
- 2Cut-side down for maximum crisp: For the crispiest results, arrange the sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet during the initial roasting period.
- 3High heat is key: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving that desirable caramelization and crispy texture. Lower temperatures will result in softer, less flavorful sprouts.
- 4Check for doneness: Sprouts should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite, with beautifully browned and crispy outer leaves.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings for a touch of heat.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey over the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
Umami BoostUmami Boost
Toss with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast after roasting for an extra savory, cheesy flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins K and C, essential for bone health, blood clotting, and immune function.
High in Fiber
Their high fiber content aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
These cruciferous vegetables contain powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
The most common reasons are overcrowding the baking sheet (which causes steaming), not using high enough oven temperature, or not roasting long enough. Ensure sprouts are in a single layer and your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C).
