Outback Brussel Sprouts Recipe

Brussels sprouts may have been a dreaded dish during your childhood, but it is time to flip the script and embrace these miniature cabbages.

Outback Steakhouse has created a brussel sprouts recipe that will make you rethink your previous aversion to this nutritious vegetable.

This Outback-inspired side dish combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet honey and smokey spices to create a delicious and exciting twist on classic Brussels sprouts.

As you prepare to recreate this dish, remember that the key to achieving the perfect texture is roasting the sprouts in the oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

How to Make Outback Brussel Sprouts

Ingredients List

To recreate the delicious Outback Steakhouse Brussel Sprouts at home, gather the following simple ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 lbs Brussel sprouts, cleaned and halved
• 2 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoky paprika
• 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder (or a spice blend like Calabrian Chili Rub for extra flavor)
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (made from balsamic vinegar and sweetener like agave nectar)
• Melted butter or additional toppings, as desired

Step-by-step Process

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C)

This high temperature will help achieve a nice golden brown color on your Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels sprouts

Rinse them under cold water and trim off any tough stems; cut the sprouts in half or quarter them into smaller pieces.

Step 3: Cook the bacon

Over medium heat, cook the bacon in a large skillet until it’s crispy.

Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.

Leave the bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Brussels sprouts

Add the olive oil in the same skillet with the bacon grease and place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down.

Cook them over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until the cut side is golden brown.

Flip them and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender.

Step 5: Add the seasonings

Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoky paprika, and chipotle chili powder over the sprouts, mix well to ensure an even coating of the spices.

Step 6: Transfer to the oven

Arrange the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are tender and slightly crispy.

Step 7: Prepare the balsamic glaze

While the sprouts are baking, prepare the balsamic glaze by combining balsamic vinegar with honey or maple syrup.

Heat it in a saucepan and reduce the mixture until it reaches a syrup-like consistency.

Step 8: Drizzle and serve

Remove the cooked Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the sprouts and sprinkle the cooked bacon on top for a heavenly balance of flavors.

Side Dishes for Outback Brussel Sprouts

Outback Brussels sprouts are a delicious side dish on their own, but pairing them with various other dishes can create a perfect combination of flavors for your family dinner or dinner party.

Here are a few side dishes that will enhance your meal when served alongside Outback Brussels sprouts.

Parmesan Cheese Roasted Asparagus

Parmesan Cheese Roasted Asparagus is a simple but flavorsome dish that complements the natural sweetness of your Brussels sprouts.

You’ll simply roast asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Garlic Butter sauteed Green Beans.

The simple yet tasty Garlic Butter sauteed Green Beans are an excellent pairing for your Brussels sprouts.

Lightly sauteed in butter and garlic, these green beans offer a contrasting texture to the sprouts and add a vibrant color to your plate.

The subtle garlic flavor enhances the overall taste of your dish.

Spicy Roasted Broccoli

If you’re looking to add a bit of heat to your meal, consider pairing your Outback Brussels sprouts with Spicy Roasted Broccoli.

Tossed in olive oil, chili flakes, and garlic, the roasted broccoli obtains a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that complements the earthiness of your Brussels sprouts.

This dish is an excellent way to introduce more cruciferous vegetables.

How to Store Outback Brussel Sprouts

Storing your leftover Outback Brussel Sprouts properly is essential to maintain their freshness and taste.

You can preserve your cooked Brussels sprouts by using an airtight container and following simple storage guidelines.

Here are the main storage methods to ensure your leftovers remain delicious and safe to consume.

Airtight Container

Place your leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.

The container should be clean and free of any moisture or residual food particles.

Seal the lid tightly to prevent air from entering the container, as this can cause your sprouts to spoil faster.

Store the airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Refrigerating

Once your Outback Brussel Sprouts are in an airtight container, place them in the refrigerator.

The ideal storage temperature should range between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C – 4.4°C).

Refrigerating your sprouts in these conditions will help to preserve their freshness and flavor for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

If you plan on storing your Brussels sprouts for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option.

Transfer your leftovers to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove any excess air.

Label the container or bag with the date to track its storage duration.

Frozen Brussels sprouts will retain their quality for 1 to 2 months.

To reheat, defrost them in the refrigerator or microwave, then either pan-fry or bake until heated through.

By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your Outback Brussel Sprouts leftovers with confidence, knowing they’ll retain their great taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing Outback Brussel Sprouts.

Cooking Process

When preparing Outback Brussels sprouts, it’s crucial to follow the cooking process correctly.

Be sure to roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven at a high temperature, around 425°F (218°C), to ensure proper browning and crispiness.

Roasting at a low temperature may result in less appealing, soggy sprouts.

Cooking Time

The ideal cooking time for roasting Outback Brussel sprouts is typically between 20-25 minutes.

Keep a close eye on them after the first 15 minutes to make sure they don’t overcook.

Overcooked sprouts can become mushy with an undesirable texture.

Check for tenderness using a fork and remove them from the oven once they are golden brown and slightly crispy.

Don’t Drown Them in Fat

Outback Brussels sprouts should be slightly crispy and full of flavor but not overly greasy.

Too much oil or fat can lead to soggy, less appetizing sprouts.

Balancing Earthy Flavors

Brussels sprouts have an earthy flavor that can be nicely balanced with other ingredients, such as Parmesan cheese and bacon.

Ensure you incorporate these elements into your recipe, as they help elevate the dish.

However, take care with the amount of salt you add, as the bacon and Parmesan cheese are already quite salty.