If you think Brussels sprouts aren’t for you, this recipe might just change your mind. Roasting these little green gems with garlic transforms them into bite-sized bursts of flavor — perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender and sweet within. A shower of Parmesan during the final roast phase adds a golden crispness that makes them absolutely irresistible.
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic are an ideal companion for almost any main dish — from grilled salmon to creamy pasta. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just jazz up your weeknight meal routine, this side dish brings the kind of flavor and texture that has everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds). Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with lemon, herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic.
Full Recipe:
1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped (keep the pieces chunky)
1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
(Optional: balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, etc.)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the upper third of your oven.
On a large rimmed baking sheet, combine the Brussels sprouts and garlic.
Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and mix to coat evenly.
Spread the Brussels sprouts into a single layer, cut sides down.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with Parmesan, and return to the oven.
Continue baking for 10–20 minutes more, until the sprouts are golden, crisp outside, and tender inside.
Optional: For added zing, finish with a drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 135 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic Are a Game-Changer
There’s something magical about roasted vegetables, and Brussels sprouts are no exception. Once one of the most polarizing vegetables at the dinner table, Brussels sprouts have undergone a culinary glow-up in recent years. The secret? Roasting. When you roast Brussels sprouts, especially with a healthy dose of garlic, something transformative happens. The outer leaves become crisp and golden, while the inside softens into a tender, almost creamy texture. That intense, bitter flavor that once turned people off gets mellowed by the caramelization process, replaced with nutty, savory notes.
Adding garlic to the mix elevates this side dish even further. As the garlic roasts, it softens and sweetens, infusing every bite with a rich, earthy warmth. Paired with a bit of freshly grated Parmesan, the flavor hits that perfect trifecta of salty, savory, and slightly sweet. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, these roasted Brussels sprouts can easily become your go-to veggie side.
A Side Dish That Steals the Show
While these Brussels sprouts are technically a “side,” don’t be surprised if they steal the spotlight. They’re that good. Thanks to the crispy edges and flavorful finish, even the pickiest eaters might find themselves reaching for seconds. What sets this version apart from other veggie sides is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients and a single baking sheet. But don’t let the minimalism fool you. This dish delivers maximum flavor and texture.
Whether you’re pairing them with a protein like salmon or chicken, or adding them to a vegetarian plate, they balance the meal beautifully. The dish is hearty enough to hold its own but never so bold that it overwhelms the main attraction. It’s also easy to make in large batches, which makes it perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday spreads.
Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are not only delicious when prepared the right way, but they’re also a powerhouse of nutrients. These miniature cabbages are loaded with fiber, which supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. They’re also packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Vitamin C helps boost your immune system and promotes radiant skin, while vitamin K is crucial for bone health and proper blood clotting. Folate is especially important for pregnant women, as it supports fetal development. Additionally, Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that contribute to overall well-being and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Garlic adds its own list of health benefits to this mix. It’s known for its immune-boosting properties and has been linked to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Combine that with olive oil, a heart-healthy fat rich in antioxidants, and you’ve got a dish that’s just as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
Perfect for All Diets and Lifestyles
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, and with a few minor tweaks, it can also be vegan, Whole30, or paleo compliant. Simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. The flavor stays bold and savory even without cheese, thanks to the roasted garlic and seasoning.
For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, Brussels sprouts are a great alternative to starchier sides like potatoes or pasta. They’re low in carbs but still satisfy the craving for something hearty and comforting. Because of the versatility and adaptability of this recipe, it’s a fantastic staple for any dietary preference.
Tips for Roasting Brussels Sprouts to Perfection
Achieving that ideal crisp-tender balance is all about technique. The key is to roast the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature—400°F or higher is the sweet spot. This encourages caramelization without overcooking the interior. Cutting the Brussels sprouts in half (or into quarters if they’re large) ensures that they cook evenly and allows the cut sides to get beautifully crisp.
Spacing the sprouts out on the baking sheet is crucial too. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast. Make sure each piece has some breathing room to get that irresistible golden crust. And don’t forget to place them cut side down—this helps maximize browning and flavor development.
When it comes to garlic, rough chopping is the way to go. If the pieces are too small, they might burn during roasting. Keep the chunks on the larger side, and they’ll roast right alongside the sprouts, turning tender and aromatic without bitterness.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
This roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic recipe is amazing as-is, but it’s also a blank canvas for other flavor pairings. If you’re in the mood to mix things up, here are a few fun ideas to try:
Add Bacon or Pancetta: For a smoky, savory twist, roast chopped bacon or pancetta on the same sheet pan. The fat will render and crisp up, creating even more flavor.
Try Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar near the end of roasting or just before serving adds a touch of acidity and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the caramelized veggies.
Squeeze in Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice right after roasting brightens everything up and adds a burst of freshness.
Go Herbaceous: Toss in some fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley after baking to give the dish a fragrant, herb-forward touch.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle on some red pepper flakes before roasting for a gentle heat, or toss with chili oil post-roast for a bold finish.
Sweeten the Deal: A light drizzle of honey after roasting can transform this savory dish into a sweet-savory masterpiece.
Meal Prep and Storage
One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores. Roasted Brussels sprouts can be refrigerated for up to four days and reheat wonderfully. You can even eat them cold, straight from the fridge as a quick veggie snack. To reheat, just pop them in a 350°F oven for about five minutes to bring back their crispiness.
They also make excellent additions to other meals. Toss them into a salad, stir into grain bowls, or add to scrambled eggs or omelets for a nutritious breakfast upgrade. You could even use leftovers to top a pizza or mix into pasta with a splash of lemon or cream sauce for a quick weeknight dinner.
A Recipe That Encourages Creativity
One of the underrated aspects of this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is that it invites creativity without compromising ease. Once you’ve mastered the basic method, you can adjust and play around with flavors depending on what’s in your pantry or what’s in season.
Because it’s such a flexible dish, you can tailor it to your family’s preferences, whether that means going heavy on the garlic, loading it with herbs, or tossing in a sprinkle of chili flakes. It’s also a great recipe to make with kids—getting them involved in prepping veggies and seeing the transformation in the oven might even convince them to become Brussels sprouts fans.
Conclusion
Roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic are a celebration of simplicity done right. With minimal ingredients and effort, you get a dish that checks all the boxes: flavorful, nutritious, versatile, and visually appealing. It’s the kind of recipe that proves how elevating your meals doesn’t always require fancy techniques or expensive ingredients.
Whether you’re serving them alongside a weeknight dinner or making a double batch for a holiday feast, these Brussels sprouts deliver every time. And as more people discover how delicious they can be when properly cooked, they’re sure to become a permanent fixture on your table too. So don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe—or if the sprouts disappear before the rest of the meal even begins.