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Easy Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Easy Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then finished with brown sugar for lightly crisp, tender, caramelized edges. This simple side dish is ready in about 30 to 35 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
  • 4 slices Cooked, crumbled bacon
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Butter

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 425°F. Trim the stem ends from the Brussels sprouts, remove damaged outer leaves, and cut the sprouts in half; quarter any very large sprouts.
  2. Pat the Brussels sprouts thoroughly dry. Toss them with the olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, then arrange them cut-side down in one uncrowded layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 15 minutes, keeping the sprouts cut-side down so the flat surfaces develop deep golden browning.
  4. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the partially roasted sprouts or toss gently to distribute it. Return the baking sheet to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, until the sprouts are tender, browned, and lightly caramelized.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add cooked crumbled bacon or a small splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving, if desired.

Notes

Dry the Brussels sprouts well and avoid crowding the pan. Adding brown sugar during the final roasting stage helps it caramelize without scorching. For a richer version, finish with 1 tablespoon butter or add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder with the salt and pepper.