A rimmed sheet pan goes into the 425°F oven for five minutes first, so the cut faces start browning the moment the sprouts land.
They roast eighteen minutes undisturbed, then five to seven more after turning. Nothing else goes on: no bacon, nuts or glaze.
Three Checks for Colour
The pan does most of the work.
Before the sprouts go in
The sheet pan has been in the oven 5 minutes.
A hot pan starts the browning immediately.
18 minutes in
Cut faces are deeply browned.
This is the colour the dish is built on.
The last 5 to 7 minutes
Centers are tender when pierced.
The halves finish cooking through after turning.
How to Make It
Pan preheated
Heat oven to 425°F. Place a large rimmed sheet pan in the oven for 5 minutes.
Sprouts tossed
Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and black pepper.
Roasted
Carefully place the sprouts cut-side down on the hot sheet pan with space between them. Roast 18 minutes without moving, then turn and roast 5 to 7 minutes more until the cut faces are deeply browned and the centers are tender.
Finished
Transfer to a platter and finish with sliced chives.
Why This Recipe Works
- A preheated pan sears the cut faces instead of steaming them.
- Leaving them undisturbed for eighteen minutes is what builds the deep colour.
- Space between the halves lets moisture escape.
- Chives go on after roasting so they stay green.
Ingredient Notes
- Brussels sprouts
- One and a half pounds, trimmed and halved.
- Olive oil
- Two and a half tablespoons, enough to coat every cut face.
- Chives
- Two tablespoons, sliced, added off the heat.
Success Tips
- Dry the sprouts well after trimming so they brown rather than steam.
- Place them cut-side down one at a time so each face meets the pan.
- Leave space between halves; a crowded pan steams.
Serving Ideas
Serve hot as a side with roast chicken, pork or a Sunday roast.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there bacon or glaze on these?
No, they are roasted plain with oil, salt, pepper and chives.
How do I get the deep browning?
Preheat the pan and leave the sprouts cut-side down and undisturbed for 18 minutes.
