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Savory Sides

Lemon Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This lemon roasted Brussels sprouts recipe roasts halved sprouts cut-side down until deeply caramelized, then finishes with a hit of fresh lemon juice and zest, ready in about 30 minutes. Lemon at the very end keeps these from tasting like just another roasted vegetable, brightening the caramelized edges instead of letting them go flat and one-note. Serve them alongside our sheet pan lemon chicken and vegetables for an all-in citrus dinner.

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Quick answer: Halved Brussels sprouts roasted cut-side down until deeply caramelized, then finished with a hit of fresh lemon juice and zest. Ready in about 30 minutes, crispy at the edges and bright instead of one-note.

A sheet pan of roasted Brussels sprouts with deeply caramelized cut sides, tossed with lemon zest and shaved parmesan
Prep10 min
Cook22 min
Total32 min
Serves4 servings
PPin

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

2

Spread in a single layer, cut-side down, on a large baking sheet.

3

Roast 20-22 minutes, without stirring, until deeply browned and crispy on the cut sides.

4

Remove from the oven and immediately toss with fresh lemon juice and zest.

5

Top with shaved parmesan if using and serve warm.

Zesty Tip: Don't crowd the pan and don't stir them halfway through. Leaving the cut sides facing down undisturbed is what gives you that deep, caramelized brown crust instead of steamed, pale sprouts.

Questions people actually ask

Why are my Brussels sprouts soggy instead of crispy?

The pan was likely too crowded, which traps steam instead of letting them roast. Use a large sheet pan and give them space, or use two pans if needed.

Can I add bacon or pancetta?

Yes, that's a popular addition. Toss in a couple ounces of cooked, crumbled bacon along with the lemon juice at the end.

How do I pick good Brussels sprouts?

Look for small, tight, bright green heads. Larger sprouts tend to be more bitter and take longer to cook through.

Can I make these ahead?

They're best fresh and crispy from the oven, but leftovers can be re-crisped in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes.

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