25 Brussels Sprout Recipes That Will Surprise You

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By Marcy Hoover

Brussels sprouts are often overlooked, but they can be transformed into delicious dishes that will surprise and delight you. From crispy roasted sprouts to creamy gratins, these recipes will change the way you think about this humble vegetable.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts make the perfect side dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.
  5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 5 more minutes.
  6. Serve immediately.

Tip: For extra crispiness, place the cut side of the Brussels sprouts facing down on the baking sheet for the first half of roasting.

2. Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

A sweet and tangy glaze takes these Brussels sprouts to the next level.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
  4. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened.
  5. Drizzle glaze over Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
  6. Serve warm.

Tip: Let the balsamic glaze simmer for a few extra minutes to create a thicker, caramelized coating on the sprouts.

3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Bacon and Brussels sprouts are a match made in heaven.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add Brussels sprouts to the bacon grease and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then serve.

Tip: Cook the bacon first and use the rendered fat instead of olive oil for deeper flavor.

4. Brussels Sprouts Gratin

A creamy, cheesy dish that will convert any Brussels sprout skeptic.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Arrange Brussels sprouts in a baking dish.
  3. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour cream over Brussels sprouts and sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  6. Serve hot.

Tip: Broil the gratin for the last 2-3 minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust.

5. Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

A fresh take on Caesar salad with shaved Brussels sprouts.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
  • ½ cup Caesar dressing
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup croutons
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Toss shaved Brussels sprouts with Caesar dressing.
  2. Add Parmesan cheese and croutons.
  3. Sprinkle with black pepper and toss again.
  4. Serve immediately.

Tip: Massage the shaved Brussels sprouts with the dressing for a few minutes to soften their texture and enhance the flavor.

6. Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

A quick and flavorful dish packed with Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add Brussels sprouts and sauté for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add soy sauce and honey, tossing to coat.
  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Tip: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan before sprinkling them on top for extra nuttiness.

7. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

A sweet and nutty twist on roasted Brussels sprouts.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle pecans over Brussels sprouts and roast for another 5 minutes.
  5. Serve warm.

Tip: Add the pecans in the last 5 minutes of roasting to keep them crunchy and prevent burning.

8. Creamy Garlic Brussels Sprouts

A rich and creamy side dish full of garlic flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add Brussels sprouts.
  2. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly browned.
  3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve hot.

Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated for a smoother and creamier sauce.

9. Brussels Sprout and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty and flavorful breakfast or side dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 2 eggs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in Brussels sprouts, onion, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
  5. If using eggs, make small wells in the mixture and crack eggs into them.
  6. Cover and cook until eggs are set.
  7. Serve warm.

Tip: Let the sweet potatoes cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crispy, caramelized surface.

10. Buffalo Brussels Sprouts

Spicy, crispy Brussels sprouts with a kick.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt.
  3. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway.
  4. Mix buffalo sauce and melted butter in a bowl.
  5. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts in the buffalo sauce.
  6. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles if desired.
  7. Serve immediately.

Tip: Toss the Brussels sprouts in the sauce just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

11. Cheesy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Dip

A creamy, cheesy dip perfect for parties.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, chopped
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in Brussels sprouts, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
  4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve warm with crackers or bread.

Tip: Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after baking to thicken and enhance the flavors.

12. Brussels Sprouts and Apple Slaw

A crunchy and refreshing salad.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
  • 1 apple, julienned
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Toss Brussels sprouts, apple, pecans, and cranberries in a large bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, honey, olive oil, and salt.
  3. Drizzle dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
  4. Serve chilled.

Tip: Toss the apples in a little lemon juice to prevent browning and add a hint of brightness.

13. Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Garlic Butter

Crispy and flavorful, a perfect side dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  2. Boil Brussels sprouts for 10 minutes until tender.
  3. Drain and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Smash each sprout with the back of a spoon.
  5. Mix melted butter with garlic, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over sprouts.
  6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 15 minutes.
  7. Serve warm.

Tip: Boil the Brussels sprouts until just fork-tender to keep them from becoming too mushy when smashed.

14. Brussels Sprouts Tacos

A vegetarian twist on tacos with bold flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup cotija cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • 8 small tortillas
  • ½ cup salsa

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add Brussels sprouts, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
  3. Sauté until crispy and golden brown.
  4. Warm tortillas and fill with Brussels sprouts.
  5. Top with cotija cheese, cilantro, and salsa.
  6. Serve immediately.

Tip: Toast the tortillas on a dry pan for a slight char and added texture before assembling the tacos.

15. Brussels Sprouts and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy and comforting dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • ½ cup white wine
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion and mushrooms until softened.
  3. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Add white wine and stir until absorbed.
  5. Gradually add broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring frequently.
  6. Once rice is tender, stir in Brussels sprouts and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Serve warm.

Tip: Warm the vegetable broth before adding it to the rice to help it absorb evenly and cook faster.

16. Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy twist on a classic comfort dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Boil Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes, then drain.
  3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
  5. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
  6. Stir in cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until melted.
  7. Combine cheese sauce, macaroni, and Brussels sprouts.
  8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Tip: Stir a little Dijon mustard into the cheese sauce for extra depth and tanginess.

17. Brussels Sprouts and Goat Cheese Flatbread

A crispy flatbread topped with tangy goat cheese and caramelized sprouts.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
  • 1 pre-made flatbread or pizza crust
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté Brussels sprouts until golden.
  3. Spread Brussels sprouts evenly over the flatbread.
  4. Sprinkle with goat cheese, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drizzle honey over the top.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
  7. Slice and serve warm.

Tip: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the flatbread before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

18. Brussels Sprouts and Chorizo Skillet

A smoky, spicy dish with bold flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 6 oz chorizo, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chorizo and cook until crispy.
  3. Remove chorizo and set aside, leaving oil in the pan.
  4. Add Brussels sprouts and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cook until caramelized, then mix in chorizo.
  6. Serve warm.

Tip: Let the chorizo cook until crispy before adding the Brussels sprouts for a better texture contrast.

19. Brussels Sprouts Carbonara

A rich, creamy pasta dish with crispy sprouts.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, sliced thin
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
  2. In a pan, cook bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add Brussels sprouts and garlic to the bacon grease and sauté until golden.
  4. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Drain pasta and immediately mix with egg mixture.
  6. Stir in Brussels sprouts, bacon, salt, and pepper.
  7. Serve warm with extra Parmesan.

Tip: Remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling and create a silky sauce.

20. Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad

A protein-packed, healthy salad with a crunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, shredded
  • ¼ cup chopped almonds
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Toss quinoa, Brussels sprouts, almonds, and cranberries in a bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
  3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  4. Serve chilled.

Tip: Let the quinoa cool before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent wilting the sprouts.

21. Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

A crispy, cheesy sandwich with a savory twist.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded Brussels sprouts
  • 4 slices bread
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté Brussels sprouts until tender.
  2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
  3. Layer cheese and Brussels sprouts between two slices.
  4. Grill sandwich on a pan until golden brown.
  5. Flip and cook until cheese is melted.
  6. Serve warm.

Tip: Press the sandwich down lightly while grilling for an extra crispy crust and melted interior.

22. Teriyaki Brussels Sprouts

A sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with sesame oil and roast for 20 minutes.
  3. In a small pan, heat soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
  4. Drizzle sauce over Brussels sprouts and toss.
  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.

Tip: Let the Brussels sprouts caramelize before adding the sauce for extra depth of flavor.

23. Brussels Sprouts and Potato Soup

A comforting, creamy soup perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onions and Brussels sprouts until softened.
  3. Add potatoes and broth, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. Blend until smooth and stir in cream.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve warm.

Tip: Roast the Brussels sprouts before adding them to the soup for a richer, slightly smoky taste.

24. Brussels Sprouts and Pomegranate Salad

A refreshing salad with a burst of sweetness.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
  • ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Toss Brussels sprouts, pomegranate seeds, and walnuts in a bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, and salt.
  3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss.
  4. Serve fresh.

Tip: Toast the walnuts before adding them for a deeper, more complex nutty flavor.

25. Brussels Sprouts Tempura

A crispy and delicious appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 cup flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 cup cold sparkling water
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F.
  2. In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, salt, and sparkling water.
  3. Dip Brussels sprouts in batter and fry until golden.
  4. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

Tip: Use ice-cold sparkling water in the batter for a lighter, crispier texture when frying.

Conclusion

Brussels sprouts are more than just a side dish. With these 25 creative and delicious recipes, you can enjoy them in new and unexpected ways. Whether roasted, fried, or mixed into salads and pasta, Brussels sprouts are a must-try ingredient that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

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