These garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts are crispy and full of flavor. They are also gluten-free and vegan, making them the perfect addition to any meal!

Some foods need a little extra love to make them taste good. Brussels sprouts are one of those foods. They tend to get a bad rap, as people always make jokes about how bad they are. The truth, however, is that Brussels sprouts can be delicious, as long as you prepare them correctly! The 2 key steps to making them taste good are:

1. seasoning
2. roasting

Seasoning is crucial to elevating the flavor of any vegetable, and Brussels sprouts are no exception. A good spice blend can turn plain baby carrots into this aromatic Moroccan-inspired dish, or sweet potatoes into these delicious crispy baked fries. Similarly, it can turn bitter Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering side. My chosen seasoning for this recipe is a simple combination of garlic, salt, and pepper.

In my opinion, roasting is the best cooking method for vegetables. It adds a crispness to the exterior of whatever you are cooking, and it truly elevates the flavor of any dish. This depth of flavor and combination of textures simply can’t be achieved through steaming, boiling, sautéing, or frying. That’s why I chose to roast the Brussels sprouts for this recipe!

These crispy garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts are a super versatile side. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, for a dinner party, or even for a casual weeknight meal. Since they happen to be gluten-free and vegan, almost anyone can enjoy this tasty and healthy dish!

How To Make Crispy Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb brussels sprouts
• 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2-3 cloves garlic minced
• Sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Trim the bottoms off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half top to bottom.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
3. Place the Brussels sprouts in the skillet, and cut side down. Add the minced garlic and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, until Brussels sprouts are browning on the bottom.
4. Remove skillet from heat and transfer to oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and season with additional sea salt and black pepper if necessary.

Tips for making Crispy Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Clean Them Well: Before cooking, make sure to clean the Brussels sprouts by trimming the bottoms and removing any dirty outer leaves. A good rinse under cold water will do the trick.
• Slice Evenly: Cut the Brussels sprouts into halves consistently to help them cook uniformly. This ensures that all pieces get crispy in the same amount of time.
• Adjust Garlic as You Like: If you like garlic, add more. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less. It’s up to your taste preferences!
• Serve Right Away: For the crunchiest experience, serve the roasted Brussels sprouts immediately after taking them out of the oven. They’re at their best when they’re fresh and hot.

FAQ

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

• Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Do I need a cast iron skillet, or can I use a different pan?

• While a cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior, you can use a different oven-safe pan if that’s what you have available.

How small should I cut the Brussels sprouts?

• Trim the bottoms and cut the Brussels sprouts in half from top to bottom. This size allows for even cooking and a nice browning on the cut side.

How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?

• Look for firm, compact Brussels sprouts with vibrant green color. Avoid those with yellow or wilted leaves.