Lemon Pepper Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy-edged Brussels sprouts roasted with butter, cracked pepper, and bright lemon finish. The combination of caramelized exterior and tender interior makes this a versatile side dish that works year-round. Serve alongside roasted chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetable-forward meal. This version relies on simple ingredients and high-heat roasting for maximum browning.
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, cracked
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, freshly grated
- butter, for topping(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 400°F and spray a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- 2
Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 20 seconds, then add Brussels sprouts, salt, and pepper; stir until evenly coated.
- 3
Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared pan.
- 4
Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sprouts are softened and beginning to brown.
- 5
Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over the sprouts; toss lightly to coat.
- 6
Serve hot, topping with additional butter as desired.
Tips
Cut Brussels sprouts into uniform pieces for even cooking. Smaller pieces will caramelize faster than larger ones.
Toss halfway through roasting to ensure all sides make contact with the hot pan for optimal browning and crisping.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Prepare Brussels sprouts up to 1 day ahead by trimming and chopping. Store in an airtight container. Coat with butter and seasonings just before roasting.
Serve immediately while hot. This works as a side with roasted poultry, grilled fish, or alongside grain bowls.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip the halfway stir to avoid uneven browning and soft spots.
Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
milder flavor
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and chop sprouts up to 1 day ahead. Coat with butter and seasonings immediately before roasting for best results. Leftovers reheat well in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
What if my Brussels sprouts aren't browning?
Ensure they're in a single layer without crowding. Increase oven temperature by 25°F or extend roasting time by 5 minutes. Higher heat and adequate spacing are key for caramelization.
Can I freeze these roasted Brussels sprouts?
Yes, freeze cooled sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Texture will be softer but flavor remains good.