When the scent of roasting vegetables fills the kitchen during Thanksgiving, there’s one side dish that never fails to steal the show: Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with caramelized flavor, this recipe transforms a humble veggie into a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether you’re after a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday spread or a way to win over even the Brussels sprouts skeptics at your table, this dish delivers effortless deliciousness. Let me show you how a few simple ingredients and a hot oven can turn these little green gems into the star of your Thanksgiving feast!
Why Choose Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Unbeatable Crispiness: These sprouts roast to golden perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Bold, Caramelized Flavor: The natural sweetness intensifies, thanks to simple roasting and a hint of seasoning. Effortless Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this a stress-free side. Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect alongside turkey or as a tasty snack for veggie lovers and skeptics alike. Healthy Indulgence: Nutritious meets delicious, making your holiday feast both comforting and wholesome.
Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels sprouts – Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best roasting results.
- Olive oil – Helps achieve that irresistible crispy exterior and golden color.
- Kosher salt – Enhances natural flavors and balances the sprouts’ slight bitterness.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a gentle kick and depth to the roasted sprouts.
For the Flavor Twist
- Balsamic vinegar – A splash brightens and deepens the caramelized sweetness.
- Garlic cloves – Roasting garlic alongside adds an aromatic, savory punch.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a subtle heat that wakes up the taste buds.
For Garnish
- Toasted pecans or walnuts – Add crunch and a nutty contrast to the tender sprouts.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Melts lightly on warm sprouts for a savory finish.
This simple blend of Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts ingredients transforms humble veggies into a festive and flavorful holiday side.
How to Make Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F and position rack in center. Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup and perfect, golden-brown sprouts.
- Trim and halve: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, discarding loose outer leaves. Removing stem ends ensures even cooking and more surface area for golden, crispy caramelization.
- Toss and spread: In a large bowl, toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange cut-side down on prepared baking sheet for even roasting and browning.
- Roast: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping sprouts halfway through. Aim for deep golden edges and tender centers with that coveted crunchy bite.
For the Flavor Twist: - Drizzle balsamic: Remove tray, drizzle 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar over sprouts. Toss gently and roast 2–3 more minutes until the glaze bubbles and deepens in color.
- Scatter garlic: During the last 5 minutes, scatter whole garlic cloves among the sprouts, letting them soften and caramelize for sweet, savory flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer sprouts to a warm serving platter and sprinkle with toasted pecans and grated Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, savory finish.
Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat and extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, but the texture may soften over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled, roasted Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Spread them out in a single layer on a sheet before transferring for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. This revives their crispiness!
Meal Prep Tip: If preparing ahead, store the sprouts without the balsamic vinegar and drizzle it just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor.
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Choose fresh sprouts: Pick firm, bright green Brussels sprouts to ensure a crisp exterior and tender inside after roasting.
- Cut side down: Arrange sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet to maximize caramelization and achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Use high heat: Roast at 425°F to develop crispiness without drying out the sprouts—lower temps won’t caramelize as well.
- Toss with balsamic last: Add balsamic vinegar near the end of roasting to avoid burning and to enhance natural sweetness beautifully.
- Don’t overcrowd pan: Give sprouts space on the baking sheet to roast evenly; overcrowding traps steam and prevents crispiness.
- Add garnish thoughtfully: Sprinkle toasted nuts and Parmesan just before serving to keep textures contrasting and flavors fresh in your Thanksgiving roasted Brussels sprouts.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
When planning your holiday feast, these vibrant Brussels sprouts deserve delightful companions that enhance their rich flavors.
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Herb-Roasted Turkey: The juicy, savory turkey is a classic choice, with its rich flavor perfectly complemented by the sprouts’ sweetness. The aromatic herbs from the turkey will tie the entire meal together beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy, buttery potatoes provide a delightful contrast in texture, and their creamy nature balances the crispy sprouts and adds comfort to your table.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots pairs wonderfully, creating a colorful and festive arrangement on your holiday plate. Their tender bite and vibrant sweetness harmonize with the savory notes of the Brussels sprouts.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty, earthy wild rice pilaf not only adds a hearty grain option but also a depth of flavor. It brings a complex texture that complements the tender, roasted Brussels sprouts.
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Cranberry Sauce: A bright, tart cranberry sauce adds a refreshing, fruity contrast to your savory sides, elevating the flavors of both the turkey and Brussels sprouts. This combination brings a hint of holiday cheer!
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Chardonnay: This bright, crisp wine offers a wonderful acidity that enhances the roasted flavors, making it a perfect match for your Brussels sprouts and the rest of the meal.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of classic pumpkin pie rounds off the holiday meal with warm, spiced flavors. The creamy filling offers a delightful contrast to the roasted elements enjoyed earlier.
Choose a few of these pairings to create a festive and flavorful Thanksgiving feast that leaves everyone craving more!
Variations & Substitutions for Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Feel free to get creative with these mouthwatering twists on your Brussels sprouts to make them uniquely yours!
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle maple syrup instead of balsamic for a sweet, autumnal flavor that balances perfectly with the earthiness of the sprouts.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, seasonal touch! -
Crispy Bacon: Toss in chopped, crispy bacon bits before roasting for a smoky flavor and added crunch that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
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Vegan Option: Swap olive oil for coconut oil and omit cheese for a plant-based take that still packs a punch of flavor and crunch.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for a fragrant touch that enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
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Nutty Crunch: Instead of pecans or walnuts, try slivered almonds for a lighter nutty taste that pairs well with the buttery textures.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika with the olive oil for an extra layer of warmth that spices things up.
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Honey-Balsamic Drizzle: Combine honey and balsamic vinegar and add during the last few minutes of roasting for a caramelized finish that’s irresistibly sticky and sweet.
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Asian Twist: Finish with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an Asian-inspired flavor that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious holiday side with minimal last-minute fuss! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The olive oil, salt, and pepper mixture can also be prepared ahead of time, ensuring that the flavor is ready to go. When it’s time to serve, just toss the sprouts with the oil mixture, roast them as directed, and finish with the balsamic drizzle and garlic just before serving. This way, you’ll ensure that your sprouts are just as delicious and flavorful, saving you valuable time during your Thanksgiving preparations!
Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts for roasting?
Look for firm, bright green sprouts without dark spots or wilting leaves. Smaller to medium-sized sprouts tend to roast more evenly and develop better caramelization.
Can I store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts, and how long do they last?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that while they stay flavorful, the crispiness might soften over time.
Is it possible to freeze Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, and I recommend it for busy weeks! Let the sprouts cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat these sprouts without losing their crispiness?
To revive that perfect crunch, spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Are Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts safe for pets or suitable for special diets?
While Brussels sprouts are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, avoid seasoning them with garlic, onions, or red pepper flakes, as these can be harmful. For people with allergies, always double-check ingredient labels—especially for toppings like nuts or cheese—and adjust as needed.
Easy Thanksgiving Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Crispy, Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, discarding loose leaves.
- Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and tender.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar; roast for 2-3 more minutes.
- Add whole garlic cloves for the last 5 minutes to caramelize.
- Garnish with toasted nuts and Parmesan before serving.
