Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when tables are adorned with delicious feasts and family traditions come alive. And let me tell you, if there’s one dish that can elevate your Thanksgiving menu, it’s roasted Brussels sprouts! These little green gems are not only packed with flavor, but they also bring that beautiful pop of color to your spread. I’ve loved Brussels sprouts since I was a kid—there’s just something about their crispy edges and tender centers that makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. Trust me, this simple yet stunning recipe will wow your guests and become a holiday favorite for years to come!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced (for an extra flavor boost!)
How to Prepare Brussels Sprout Recipes Thanksgiving
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to get that oven warmed up! Preheating is super important because it ensures your Brussels sprouts roast evenly and develop that gorgeous golden-brown color. So, crank your oven up to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat while you prepare your sprouts. Trust me, you’ll want that perfect crispy exterior!
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Start by trimming the ends of your Brussels sprouts and then slice them in half. This helps them cook evenly and allows all those delicious flavors to soak in. Once they’re all halved, toss them into a large bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil, sprinkle the salt and black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add in those minced garlic cloves! Now, get your hands in there and toss everything together until each sprout is nicely coated. It’s a bit messy, but oh-so-satisfying!
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Next up, it’s time to spread those beauties onto a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer—this helps them roast rather than steam. Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to give them a gentle stir halfway through to ensure they get that lovely caramelization on all sides. Keep an eye on them, and when they’re golden brown and tender, they’re ready to shine!
Add Finishing Touches
Finally, when your Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, it’s time for the grand finale! Drizzle them with balsamic vinegar—this adds a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with their earthy flavor. Then, sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of umami goodness. Serve them up hot, and watch as your family dives in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
- Healthy and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Full of flavor, with a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes.
- A perfect Thanksgiving side dish that complements any main course.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Brussels sprouts turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to elevate this dish and impress your guests:
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper based on your personal preference. A little extra salt can really enhance those crispy edges.
- Get Creative with Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, adding minced garlic is a game changer! Just toss it in with the Brussels sprouts before roasting for an aromatic twist that really amps up the flavor.
- Try Different Cheese: While Parmesan is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Crumbled feta or grated pecorino can bring a unique flavor profile that’s just as delicious.
- Mix in Other Veggies: Feel free to add in some other vegetables like baby carrots or red onions. They roast beautifully alongside the Brussels sprouts and add even more color and flavor to your dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give those sprouts space! If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we want that beautiful caramelization. Use two baking sheets if necessary!
Follow these tips, and I promise you’ll have the most flavorful, irresistible Brussels sprouts on the table this Thanksgiving!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless ways to mix things up with your roasted Brussels sprouts! Here are some fun variations to consider that will keep your Thanksgiving table exciting:
- Maple Glaze: For a sweet twist, drizzle some maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting. It adds a lovely caramelized finish that’s simply irresistible!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper with your olive oil. The warmth will complement the earthy flavor of the sprouts beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans in the last few minutes of roasting. They’ll bring a delightful crunch and a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sprouts.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish to a whole new level! Try tossing in some chopped rosemary or thyme before roasting for a fragrant, savory twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix it up with a different cheese! Goat cheese or blue cheese crumbles can add a tangy richness that works wonders with the roasted flavor.
- Vegetable Medley: Why stop at Brussels sprouts? Throw in some halved baby carrots, diced sweet potatoes, or sliced bell peppers to create a colorful and flavorful veggie medley that everyone will love!
These variations can easily take your Brussels sprouts from classic to exciting, ensuring there’s something for everyone on your Thanksgiving table!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the goal is to create a harmonious meal that delights the senses, and roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic addition to that spread! Here’s what I love to serve alongside these little green gems to create a beautiful and balanced feast:
- Herb-Roasted Turkey: A classic choice! The juicy, savory flavors of herb-roasted turkey pair beautifully with the earthy notes of Brussels sprouts, making for a match made in holiday heaven.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: If you’re going for something a bit sweeter, a honey-glazed ham is the perfect complement. The sweetness from the glaze contrasts wonderfully with the savory, roasted flavors of the sprouts.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes balances out the crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful texture combination.
- Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of brightness to your plate. The acidity cuts through the richness of the other dishes and adds a fresh note that enhances the overall meal.
- Stuffing: Whether you prefer a traditional bread stuffing or a wild rice version, stuffing brings warmth and heartiness to the table. It pairs wonderfully with the roasted sprouts and turkey!
- Roasted Butternut Squash: For a colorful veggie option, try serving roasted butternut squash alongside your Brussels sprouts. The sweet, nutty flavor of the squash complements the savory sprouts perfectly.
Mix and match these dishes to create your ideal Thanksgiving spread. Trust me, your guests will be raving about the flavors and combinations long after the last bite is gone!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s break down the nutritional goodness of these roasted Brussels sprouts! This dish is not just delicious; it also packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a great idea of how healthy this side dish is! With plenty of fiber and a good dose of vitamins, these Brussels sprouts are not only a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving feast but also a smart choice for your health. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence this holiday season!
FAQ Section
How do I store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts?
You can store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up. Reheating them in the oven is the best way to keep that crispy texture, so pop them back in at about 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes!
Can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and toss them with the olive oil, salt, and pepper a day in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge. Then, when it’s time for dinner, spread them on the baking sheet and roast them fresh! This way, you’ll have that warm, delectable side ready without the last-minute rush.
Can I freeze roasted Brussels sprouts?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing roasted Brussels sprouts, as they tend to lose their lovely texture and flavor. However, if you have leftover raw sprouts, you can blanch them quickly and freeze them for later use. Just remember that they’ll need to be cooked when you’re ready to enjoy them!
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
No problem! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a tangy kick. You could even drizzle a little honey over the sprouts for a sweet finish if you prefer that flavor profile!
How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done roasting?
You’ll know your Brussels sprouts are ready when they’re beautifully golden brown and tender to the fork. They should be caramelized on the outside while still having a nice bite to them. If they’re not quite there, just give them a few more minutes in the oven—keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Brussel Sprout Recipes Thanksgiving: 5 Irresistible Flavors
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and simple recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to taste.
- You can add garlic for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: brussel sprout recipes thanksgiving
