This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe stands out for its perfect balance of simplicity and bold flavor.
The roasting process caramelizes the sprouts, bringing out a delightful crispness and natural sweetness that’s enhanced by the bright lemon juice, fresh thyme, and Parmesan.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (for lining)
- Chef’s Knife (for trimming and halving)
- Citrus Zester (for lemon zest)
- Measuring Spoons (for seasoning and juice)
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts ends trimmed and halved
- Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese or ¼ cup shaved Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Surface: Set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts, remove any damaged outer leaves, and trim the tough ends. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season and Arrange the Sprouts: Place the halved sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to coat each piece. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to promote crispiness.
- Roast Until Golden and Tender: Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 to 30 minutes. Stir or shake the pan halfway through to encourage even browning. The Brussels sprouts are ready when they develop a deep golden color around the edges and feel tender when pierced with a fork.
- Toss with Bright Lemon and Parmesan: Once roasted, transfer the sprouts to a serving bowl. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan, and thyme leaves. Gently toss to combine and coat the sprouts with the fresh flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley leaves and, if you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure the sprouts are spread out without overcrowding on the baking sheet.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.
- Parmesan can be swapped for Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative for different tastes or dietary needs.
- This recipe reheats well; simply warm leftovers in a skillet or oven to keep the crisp texture.
- To save time, you can prep the Brussels sprouts a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until roasting.
Nutritionally, Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse vegetable—rich in fiber, packed with plant-based protein, and low in carbs, making them a smart choice for anyone seeking nutrient-dense, weight-friendly meals.
Additionally, they are low in saturated fat and contain good fats when paired with heart-healthy olive oil.
This dish is incredibly quick and easy, taking just about 35 minutes total, which makes it a perfect weeknight side or a holiday staple.
It’s also meal-prep friendly because roasted vegetables keep well and reheat beautifully, providing a satisfying, wholesome addition to any meal.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Baking Sheet
Essential for roasting, it provides a flat, even surface to spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer, ensuring they crisp up evenly. A durable baking sheet is versatile for baking, roasting, and even making sheet pan dinners.
Parchment Paper
This non-stick liner makes cleanup effortless and prevents vegetables from sticking or burning. It’s a kitchen staple for baking and roasting that also promotes healthier cooking by reducing the need for excess oil.
Chef’s Knife
Used for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts, a sharp chef’s knife ensures clean cuts that promote even cooking and maintain the vegetable’s texture. This tool is indispensable for all chopping, slicing, and dicing in your kitchen.
Citrus Zester
Perfect for adding fresh lemon zest, this tool extracts flavorful oils without the bitterness of the pith, elevating the dish with bright, aromatic notes. A zester is great for enhancing both savory and sweet recipes with a burst of citrus.
Measuring Spoons
Precision in adding ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and seasoning enhances flavor balance and consistency, making these spoons crucial for reliable cooking results.
Chef’s Secrets for Ultimate Flavor
To elevate the flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts, start with trimming and halving the sprouts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Don’t rush the roasting time—allowing them to caramelize fully brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful crispness.
Using parchment paper helps achieve even browning and makes cleanup a breeze.
Fresh lemon juice and zest added right after roasting brighten the dish and balance the sprouts’ earthy tones.
Incorporating fresh thyme adds an aromatic, herbaceous note that complements the tangy Parmesan perfectly.
If you want a subtle spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the sprouts.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the olive oil; it’s essential for crisp texture and helps carry the seasonings throughout.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Everyone
This roasted Brussels sprouts dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.
Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a nutritious, well-rounded plate.
For a vegetarian option, add it to a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and tahini sauce.
These sprouts also make a tasty addition to holiday spreads or Sunday dinners.
Try sprinkling toasted nuts or seeds on top for extra texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
If you want to add more depth, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze just before serving.
They also work well as a warm salad base, topped with crumbled goat cheese or dried cranberries for a festive touch.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Quality
To keep your roasted Brussels sprouts fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
They will stay good for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the sprouts soggy.
Instead, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
If you’re prepping in advance, you can store raw, trimmed Brussels sprouts in the fridge in a breathable container or perforated bag for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, consider blanching and freezing the sprouts before roasting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh sprouts generally yield better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry to reduce excess moisture, then roast as directed.
2. How do I prevent Brussels sprouts from being bitter?
Choosing smaller, fresh sprouts and roasting them until caramelized helps reduce bitterness. Adding lemon juice and Parmesan also balances the flavor beautifully.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. What can I substitute for fresh thyme?
Dried thyme can work but use less as it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh rosemary or oregano also complements the flavors nicely.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, roasted Brussels sprouts keep well in the fridge and can be reheated without losing much texture, making them ideal for quick meals during the week.
