Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts Recipe

I’ve been perfecting this Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts recipe, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Roasting the sprouts until they’re golden and crisp is my secret to unlocking their natural sweetness.

I love tossing them in the honey mustard glaze for that irresistible sweet and tangy flavor that coats every leaf.

Always serve these sprouts fresh out of the oven to maintain that satisfying crunch that’s so essential to the dish.

This recipe has become a beloved side in my home because it turns the humble Brussels sprout into a star on the dinner table.

How to Make Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts

Crafting the Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts recipe involves straightforward preparation and cooking techniques.

Key steps include seasoning and roasting the sprouts to a perfect texture – ensuring they’re evenly coated with oil and seasonings, and spread in a single layer on the baking sheet for consistent cooking.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Pepper flakes, optional, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Extras (optional): roasted chicken, roasted veggies, sweet potatoes

Step-by-step process

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will ensure the Brussels sprouts become nicely caramelized.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, a generous pinch of Kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of pepper flakes can also be added.

Step 3:

Spread the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to facilitate even roasting.

Step 4:

Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Shake the pan or use a spatula to turn the sprouts every 5-7 minutes to promote consistent cooking.

Step 5:

While the sprouts are roasting, heat a small pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant – about 1 minute.

Step 6:

Mix the breadcrumbs into the garlic and oil, stirring until they’re golden brown. Remove from heat.

Step 7:

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice and an extra helping of olive oil if desired. Sprinkle over the toasted breadcrumb mixture and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8:

Serve immediately with your choice of protein like roasted chicken, or as a complement to other roasted veggies or sweet potatoes.

Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts Side Dishes

Roasted Chicken

Your Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts will pair splendidly with roasted chicken.

This classic dish features a golden-brown skin with tender, juicy meat on the inside.

By roasting the chicken, you’ll enhance its flavors, creating a delightful contrast with the savory notes of the Brussels sprouts.

Roasted Veggies

A medley of roasted vegetables can accompany your Brussels sprouts to round out the meal.

Include a variety of colors and textures, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, lightly seasoned to complement the robust taste of the sprouts.

Sweet Potatoes

Consider serving sweet potatoes as a side.

Their natural sweetness and creamy texture offer a divine balance to the earthy Brussels sprouts.

Roast them until they are caramelized on the edges for an irresistible bite.

Sweet potatoes can be cut into chunks or wedges, tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasted until soft and slightly crispy.

Pair these sides with your Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts Recipe for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Each brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, ensuring a varied and harmonious dining experience.

Ingredients Substitutes

Black Pepper

If you’re out of black pepper, you can use white pepper as a substitute.

White pepper is milder and less complex but will still provide a peppery bite.

Lemon Juice

In place of lemon juice, try using apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar to give a similar zesty flavor.

Use half the amount to start and adjust to your taste.

Olive Oil

For an alternative to olive oil, consider avocado oil or grapeseed oil.

Both have a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making them suitable for roasting.

Cloves Garlic

Garlic powder can be used when fresh garlic is unavailable.

Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder to replace one clove of fresh garlic.

Cup Breadcrumbs

If breadcrumbs are not at hand, you can use crushed crackers or panko for a crunchy coating.

Keep the measurement roughly the same.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

As a substitute for Parmesan, try Asiago or Pecorino Romano.

Both cheese types share a similar salty and nutty flavor profile. Use a one-to-one ratio.

Kosher Salt

If Kosher salt isn’t available, sea salt can be a good alternative, but use less as it tends to be finer.

Start with half the amount and adjust for taste.

Pepper Flakes

To replace pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can be used to bring in heat.

These should be added sparingly and to your preference for spiciness.

How to Store Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts

Refrigeration

You can extend the freshness of your Lazy Dog Brussels Sprouts by storing them in the refrigerator.

Place the sprouts in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing strong odors from other foods.

Ideally, you should consume the sprouts within 3-5 days for the best quality.

• Without Washing: Keep the Brussels sprouts unwashed, as moisture can hasten spoilage.
• Outer Leaves: If the sprouts still have their outer leaves, leave them intact to protect the inner leaves.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is an effective option.

First, blanch the Brussels sprouts in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, then plunge them into ice water to halt the cooking process.

Dry them thoroughly to prevent ice crystals from forming.

• Single Layer Freezing: Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until they’re frozen solid.
• Transfer to Containers: After they’re frozen, transfer the sprouts to an airtight container before placing them back in the freezer.

In the Pantry

In some cases, you might opt for a short-term storage solution.

If you’re in a cool area of Southern California and plan to use the Brussels sprouts within a day or two:

• Use a Ventilated Bag: Store them in a well-ventilated bag with the top left open.
• Cool, Dark Place: Place them in a cool, dark part of your pantry or countertop away from direct sunlight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

When roasting Brussels sprouts, ensure they’re not too crowded on the pan, as this can steam rather than roast them, preventing that coveted golden brown crispiness.

Spread the sprouts in a single layer, giving them enough room.

Inconsistent Sprout Size

Cut Brussels sprouts to uniform sizes before cooking.

Larger pieces should be halved, aiming for sizes close to a quarter coin.

This ensures even cooking and avoids having some sprouts undercooked while others are overdone.

Skipping Parchment Paper

For an easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before adding the Brussels sprouts.

It also helps facilitate even cooking, keeping your sprouts from burning.

Incorrect Cooking Times

Brussels sprouts should be cooked until they’re golden brown; this usually takes 10-15 minutes.

Using a timer can help track this, as too little time can leave them raw, and too long can lead to charring.

Neglecting Seasoning Adjustment

Adjust your seasoning based on the size of your Brussels sprouts.

Smaller sprouts require less seasoning than larger ones.

Taste and season accordingly to achieve the right balance of flavors without overpowering the sprouts.