Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts have become a staple in our household, and for good reason. Initially, Brussels sprouts weren’t exactly a family favorite – let’s just say their reputation preceded them! However, this recipe completely transformed our perception. The magic lies in the simple yet powerful combination of roasting and garlic. The oven’s heat coaxes out a natural sweetness from the Brussels sprouts, caramelizing their outer leaves to crispy perfection, while the garlic infuses them with a savory, aromatic depth that’s utterly irresistible. Even the kids, who once turned up their noses at the mere mention of Brussels sprouts, now eagerly devour them. This recipe is proof that even the most humble vegetables can be elevated to something truly special with the right preparation. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and most importantly, incredibly delicious – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.

Ingredients for Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Brussels Sprouts: 2 pounds, fresh, small to medium-sized are ideal for even cooking. They form the base of the dish, offering a slightly bitter, cabbage-like flavor that mellows beautifully when roasted.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial here, providing a pungent, savory aroma and flavor that permeates the Brussels sprouts as they roast.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin. Essential for roasting, olive oil helps to crisp the Brussels sprouts, prevents sticking, and adds a rich, fruity flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher salt preferred. Enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts and garlic, and is crucial for proper seasoning.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground. Adds a subtle spice and complexity to the dish, complementing the garlic and roasted vegetable flavors.
• Optional Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste). For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes provide a gentle kick that balances the sweetness and savoriness.
• Optional Balsamic Glaze (for serving): Adds a tangy sweetness and beautiful visual appeal when drizzled over the finished sprouts.
• Optional Lemon Juice (for serving): Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

Instructions for Perfect Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Sprouts: Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature of 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key to achieving perfectly roasted, crispy Brussels sprouts rather than steamed, mushy ones. While the oven is preheating, prepare your Brussels sprouts. Start by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, trim the hard, woody ends of each sprout. This part is tough and doesn’t cook well, so removing it is important for good texture. After trimming, cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. For larger sprouts, you may even quarter them to ensure they cook through evenly and quickly. Halving or quartering also increases the surface area, maximizing caramelization and crispiness.
2. Garlic Prep is Key: While the sprouts are draining slightly after rinsing, turn your attention to the garlic. Peel 6-8 cloves of fresh garlic. For this recipe, mincing the garlic is ideal. Mincing releases the garlic’s oils and aroma, allowing it to infuse the Brussels sprouts beautifully as they roast. You can use a garlic press for convenience, or finely chop the garlic with a sharp knife. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar as it often lacks the fresh, pungent flavor that is crucial for this dish. Freshly minced garlic makes a significant difference in the final taste.
3. Toss and Season for Flavor: In a large bowl, place the halved or quartered Brussels sprouts and the minced garlic. Drizzle about ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil over the sprouts and garlic. Olive oil is essential for roasting as it helps the sprouts crisp up and prevents them from drying out in the oven. It also adds a layer of flavor. Season generously with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Proper seasoning at this stage is vital for flavorful Brussels sprouts. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – they enhance all the other flavors. If you desire a little heat, add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this stage. Toss everything together thoroughly using your hands or a spatula to ensure that the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the olive oil, garlic, and seasonings. This even coating is crucial for uniform roasting and flavor distribution.
4. Arrange for Roasting Perfection: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. It’s important to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause the sprouts to steam rather than roast, resulting in soggy, not crispy, Brussels sprouts. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure that the sprouts have enough space. Arrange them cut-side down for maximum caramelization. Roasting cut-side down allows the flat surface to come into direct contact with the hot baking sheet, encouraging browning and crisping.
5. Roast to Golden Brown and Crispy: Place the baking sheet in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the roasting time, around 10-12 minutes, take the baking sheet out of the oven and toss the Brussels sprouts. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for the remaining time, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp and beautifully golden brown with slightly charred edges. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of your sprouts and your oven. Keep an eye on them and roast until they reach your desired level of crispiness. The garlic should also be fragrant and slightly golden, but not burnt.
6. Serve Immediately and Enhance the Flavor (Optional): Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven. Transfer them to a serving dish immediately. Roasted Brussels sprouts are best served hot and fresh right out of the oven when they are at their crispiest. For an extra touch of flavor, you can optionally drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts just before serving. The tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze complements the savory, roasted flavors beautifully. Alternatively, or additionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sprouts. The lemon juice brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zesty note. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper if needed before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)

Preparation Time for Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Total Time: 35 minutes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (Includes washing, trimming, halving/quartering Brussels sprouts, mincing garlic, and tossing with oil and seasonings). This part is quick and efficient, making it a great weeknight side dish.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (Roasting in the oven at 400°F/200°C until tender-crisp and golden brown). The oven does most of the work, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal.

This recipe is incredibly efficient, taking less than 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick and easy side dish for any occasion.

How to Serve Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve them as a classic side dish alongside your favorite main courses. They pair wonderfully with:
  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Grilled or baked fish (salmon, cod, halibut)
  • Steak or other grilled meats
  • Vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers
• Holiday Feast Essential: They are a fantastic addition to holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Their robust flavor and hearty texture make them a welcome contrast to richer dishes.
• Grain Bowl Component: Add roasted Brussels sprouts to grain bowls for extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. Combine them with:
  • Quinoa, farro, or brown rice
  • Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash
  • Chickpeas or lentils
  • A tahini-lemon dressing
• Salad Booster: Toss cooled roasted Brussels sprouts into salads to add a warm, savory element. They are delicious in:
  • Warm Brussels sprout and kale salad with cranberries and pecans
  • Roasted vegetable salad with mixed greens and goat cheese
  • Caesar salad for a twist on the classic
• Appetizer or Snack: Enjoy them as a healthy and flavorful appetizer or snack. Serve them:
  • With a dipping sauce like aioli, Dijon mustard, or a creamy vegan ranch
  • Sprinkled with parmesan cheese (if not vegan) or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
  • On skewers with cherry tomatoes and balsamic glaze for a fun presentation
• Pizza Topping: Get creative and use roasted Brussels sprouts as a unique and delicious pizza topping. Combine them with:
  • Garlic and olive oil base
  • Ricotta cheese or vegan cashew cream
  • Caramelized onions
  • Balsamic glaze drizzle after baking

Additional Tips for the Best Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Choose Brussels Sprouts Wisely: Select Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and tightly closed. Avoid sprouts that are yellowing, have wilted leaves, or feel soft. Smaller to medium-sized sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender than very large ones.
2. Don’t Skip Trimming and Halving/Quartering: Trimming the woody ends is crucial for removing the tough, bitter part. Halving or quartering ensures even cooking and increases surface area for crisping and flavor absorption.
3. High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) is essential for achieving crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts. Lower temperatures will result in steamed, mushy sprouts.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the Brussels sprouts space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure a single layer.
5. Toss Halfway Through: Tossing the sprouts halfway through the roasting time promotes even cooking and browning on all sides. It ensures that all parts of the sprouts get nicely caramelized.
6. Experiment with Seasonings: While garlic, salt, and pepper are classic, feel free to experiment with other seasonings. Try adding:
   • Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
   • Onion powder or granulated garlic for extra garlic notes
   • Italian seasoning or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary
   • A pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat
7. Add Sweetness Strategically: If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or honey along with the olive oil and seasonings. Balsamic glaze is also a great way to add sweetness at the end.
8. Roast Until Perfectly Tender-Crisp: Roast the Brussels sprouts until they are tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite and crispy edges. Avoid overcooking, which can make them mushy. The goal is a balance of tenderness and crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

A: While fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. However, they tend to retain more water and may not get as crispy. If using frozen sprouts, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry with paper towels before roasting. You may also need to increase the roasting time slightly.

Q2: How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from being bitter?

A: Roasting at high heat helps to reduce the bitterness of Brussels sprouts by caramelizing their natural sugars. Proper seasoning with salt is also crucial. Avoid overcooking, as this can exacerbate bitterness. Choosing smaller, younger sprouts can also help, as they tend to be less bitter than larger, older ones.

Q3: Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts (wash, trim, and halve/quarter) and mince the garlic up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to toss them with olive oil and seasonings just before roasting for optimal freshness and flavor.

Q4: What if I don’t have olive oil? Can I use another oil?

A: Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other high-heat cooking oils such as avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. These oils will also help to crisp the Brussels sprouts. Butter or ghee can also be used for a richer flavor, but be mindful of the smoke point.

Q5: How do I store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts?

A: Store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help regain some crispiness, although they will be best when freshly roasted. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to roast with the Brussels sprouts?

A: Absolutely! Roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with other root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and parsnips. Just ensure that you cut the other vegetables to a similar size as the Brussels sprouts for even cooking. You may need to adjust the roasting time depending on the vegetables you add.

Q7: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as written! Ensure you are using plant-based olive oil and seasonings. You can enhance the flavor further with nutritional yeast for a cheesy note or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Q8: My roasted Brussels sprouts are still not crispy, what did I do wrong?

A: Several factors can prevent Brussels sprouts from getting crispy:

• Oven temperature too low: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C).
• Overcrowding the pan: Spread the sprouts in a single layer, using multiple baking sheets if needed.
• Too much moisture: Make sure the Brussels sprouts are relatively dry after washing before tossing with oil.
• Not roasting long enough: Roast for the full 20-25 minutes, or even a bit longer, until they are golden brown and crispy to your liking.
• Opening the oven too frequently: Avoid opening the oven door too often during roasting, as this can lower the oven temperature and affect crispiness.

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