Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts: A Crispy, Spicy Delight
Brussels sprouts, often misunderstood and underappreciated, are nutritional powerhouses just waiting to be transformed into something truly delicious. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, and when tossed in a vibrant buffalo sauce, they become an irresistible side dish or even a surprisingly satisfying snack. This recipe for Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts is a game-changer, even for those who claim to dislike Brussels sprouts. The crispy texture, the tangy heat, and the subtle earthy flavor combine to create an explosion of taste that will have you coming back for more. Get ready to convert some Brussels sprouts skeptics!
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and impressive side dish.
* **Healthy and Delicious:** Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness, making them a healthier and more flavorful alternative to traditional snacks.
* **Perfectly Crispy:** The high heat of the oven ensures that the Brussels sprouts become beautifully caramelized and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
* **Buffalo Flavor Explosion:** The tangy and spicy buffalo sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
* **Versatile:** Serve these roasted Brussels sprouts as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a topping for salads or grain bowls.
* **Great for Meal Prep:** You can roast a big batch of these on Sunday and enjoy them throughout the week!
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Brussels Sprouts:** 1.5 pounds, fresh and preferably similar in size for even cooking.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, for roasting and adding flavor.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon, for enhancing the overall savory taste.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon, complements the garlic and adds depth.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon, to season the Brussels sprouts and balance the flavors.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon, adds a subtle kick.
* **Buffalo Wing Sauce:** 1/2 cup (such as Frank’s RedHot), the star of the show, providing that signature tangy heat.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons, melted, for richness and to help the sauce cling to the Brussels sprouts.
* **Optional Toppings:** Ranch dressing, blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Baking Sheet:** Essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
* **Large Bowl:** For tossing the Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings.
* **Small Bowl or Measuring Cup:** For melting the butter and mixing the buffalo sauce.
* **Sharp Knife:** For trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
* **Cutting Board:** To protect your countertop while prepping the Brussels sprouts.
* **Tongs:** For tossing the Brussels sprouts during roasting.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts.
* Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water.
* Trim the ends of each Brussels sprout by cutting off the tough, dry part at the base. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
* Halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts, depending on their size. Aim for pieces that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Smaller Brussels sprouts can simply be halved, while larger ones should be quartered.
### 2. Season the Brussels Sprouts
* Place the halved or quartered Brussels sprouts in a large bowl.
* Drizzle with olive oil. Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat them evenly with the oil. This will help them crisp up in the oven.
* Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
### 3. Roast the Brussels Sprouts
* Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
* Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and nicely browned, with crispy edges. Halfway through roasting (around 10-12 minutes), use tongs to flip the Brussels sprouts. This ensures even browning on all sides.
### 4. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
* While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the buffalo sauce.
* In a small bowl or measuring cup, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
* Add the buffalo wing sauce to the melted butter and stir to combine. This creates a rich and flavorful sauce that will cling beautifully to the Brussels sprouts.
### 5. Toss with Buffalo Sauce
* Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and crispy, remove them from the oven.
* Immediately transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a clean bowl.
* Pour the buffalo sauce over the Brussels sprouts and toss gently to coat them evenly. Make sure every Brussels sprout is coated with the delicious buffalo sauce.
### 6. Serve and Enjoy!
* Transfer the Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts to a serving dish.
* Optional: Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
* Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness!
## Tips for Perfect Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** This is the most important tip for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches.
* **Use High Heat:** A high oven temperature (400°F or 200°C) is essential for caramelizing the Brussels sprouts and creating those delicious crispy edges.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked Brussels sprouts can become mushy and bitter. Roast them until they are tender but still have a slight bite.
* **Toss Halfway Through:** Flipping the Brussels sprouts halfway through roasting ensures even browning on all sides.
* **Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts:** Fresh Brussels sprouts will have a better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** If you prefer a milder flavor, use a less spicy buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of sauce. If you like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce.
* **Add a Touch of Sweetness:** For a balanced flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the buffalo sauce. This will help to offset the spiciness and tanginess.
* **Experiment with Different Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Ranch dressing and blue cheese crumbles are classic pairings with buffalo flavor, but you can also try shredded Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
* **Preheat the Baking Sheet:** Preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the Brussels sprouts. This will help them to crisp up even faster.
* **Dry the Brussels Sprouts:** After washing the Brussels sprouts, make sure to dry them thoroughly before tossing them with oil and seasonings. This will help them to roast instead of steam.
## Variations and Additions
* **Bacon Brussels Sprouts:** Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the roasted Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and texture. Cook the bacon separately until crispy, then crumble it over the Brussels sprouts after they are tossed with the buffalo sauce.
* **Parmesan Brussels Sprouts:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy and savory twist. The Parmesan will melt and create a crispy crust.
* **Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts:** Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the buffalo sauce for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful glaze. The maple syrup will caramelize in the oven, creating a delicious sticky coating.
* **Spicy Brussels Sprouts:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce for extra heat. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
* **Lemon-Garlic Brussels Sprouts:** Omit the buffalo sauce and toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with a mixture of melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This creates a bright and flavorful side dish.
* **Balsamic Brussels Sprouts:** Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. The balsamic glaze adds a beautiful sheen and complements the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts.
* **Add Protein:** Toss the roasted buffalo Brussels sprouts with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete and satisfying meal. This is a great way to turn a side dish into a main course.
## Serving Suggestions
These Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
* **Side Dish:** Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pork.
* **Appetizer:** Serve them as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as a healthy and satisfying snack. They are a great alternative to chips or other processed snacks.
* **Salad Topping:** Add them to your favorite salad for extra flavor and texture.
* **Grain Bowl:** Top a grain bowl with these roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete and balanced meal.
* **Tacos or Wraps:** Add them to tacos or wraps for a flavorful and nutritious filling.
## Storage and Reheating
* **Storage:** Store leftover Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
* **Freezing:** While you can freeze Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze them, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 150-200
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 3-5g
* Cholesterol: 10-15mg
* Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on the buffalo sauce)
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
* Fiber: 4-5g
* Sugar: 2-4g
* Protein: 4-5g
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*
## Conclusion
These Roasted Buffalo Brussels Sprouts are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a often-overlooked vegetable. The combination of crispy texture, tangy heat, and earthy flavor is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts lover or a skeptic, this recipe is sure to change your mind. Give it a try and discover your new favorite side dish!
Enjoy!