Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts Skillet Easy and Tasty

If you're looking for a quick and tasty side dish, you've found it! My Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts Skillet is simple to make and packed with flavor. You only need a few ingredients to whip up this dish. I’ll guide you through each step, share tips to avoid common mistakes, and show you how to store leftovers. Let’s make Brussels sprouts your new favorite veggie!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 5 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon lemon zest

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

- Red pepper flakes give a nice kick.

- Parmesan cheese adds a creamy touch.

- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary bring more depth.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

- Calories: 150

- Protein: 4g

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Fat: 12g

- Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 2g

Each serving offers a balance of taste and nutrition. The healthy fats from the butter and the fiber from the Brussels sprouts work well together. Enjoy this dish as a side or a main event!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

Start by washing 1 pound of Brussels sprouts under cold water. Make sure to remove any dirt. Next, trim the ends off each sprout. This helps them cook evenly. After that, cut each Brussels sprout in half. Set them aside while you prepare the skillet.

Cooking in Skillet: Detailed Process

In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Wait until the butter starts to bubble. Then, add 5 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, but not browned.

Now, toss in the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps them brown nicely. After that, stir the sprouts and cook for another 5 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat.

Next, drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the sprouts. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the mixture well until the cheese melts.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with fresh, chopped parsley. This adds a nice color and flavor. Serve the Brussels sprouts warm. They make a great side dish for any meal. Enjoy your tasty creation!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Cooked Sprouts

To get the best Brussels sprouts, start with fresh ones. Look for bright green, firm sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. When you sauté them, let them sit in the pan without stirring for the first few minutes. This allows them to brown nicely. Keep an eye on the garlic. You want it fragrant, not burnt. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins the dish. Add the lemon zest and red pepper flakes for a fresh kick but do this near the end of cooking.

Variations for Flavor Enhancements

You can play with flavors to make this dish your own. Try adding some balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. For a smoky flavor, throw in some smoked paprika. If you like nuts, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch. You can also mix in some cooked bacon bits for a savory touch. If you want a creamy texture, consider adding a splash of cream or some cream cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is overcrowding the skillet. If you add too many sprouts, they will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if needed. Another mistake is using low heat. Medium heat is key for good browning. Don't skip the lemon juice. It brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the butter. Lastly, remember to season well. Salt and pepper make a big difference in taste, so don’t hold back!

Variations

Alternative Preparation Methods

You can change up how you cook Brussels sprouts. Try roasting them instead of using a skillet. Toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. This method gives a nice crisp texture and deep flavor.

Another fun way is to grill them. Skewer the halved sprouts and brush them with garlic butter. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on medium heat, turning until they are tender and slightly charred.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out some ingredients for what you have at home. If you don't have butter, use olive oil or ghee. Both options still provide great flavor. For a twist, add balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice. This gives a sweet and tangy taste.

If you want to avoid cheese, skip the Parmesan. Instead, sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Serving Suggestions with Other Dishes

Garlic butter Brussels sprouts work well with many meals. Serve them as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled steak. They add a healthy crunch to any plate.

You can also mix them into pasta dishes. Toss the sprouts with your favorite pasta, some olive oil, and a sprinkle of cheese. This makes a quick and tasty meal.

For a lighter option, serve the sprouts on a bed of quinoa or rice. This adds a nice texture and boosts nutrition. Enjoy exploring these fun ways to enjoy garlic butter Brussels sprouts!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your garlic butter Brussels sprouts, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure the sprouts cool down before sealing them. This keeps moisture out and helps maintain flavor.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a skillet on medium heat. Add a little butter to the pan. Once hot, add your sprouts. Stir them occasionally for about 5 minutes. This way, they heat evenly while keeping their tasty texture. You can also use a microwave. Place the sprouts in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to warm them properly.

Freezing Brussels Sprouts: Best Practices

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great idea. First, blanch the Brussels sprouts. Boil them for 3 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Drain well and dry them with a towel. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use them within 3 months for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. They are handy and save time. Just make sure to thaw them first. Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid too much moisture. This helps in getting a nice crisp when you cook them.

What can I substitute for butter?

If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil or coconut oil. Both give a nice flavor. You can also use vegan butter if you prefer a similar taste without dairy. These substitutes work well and keep the dish tasty.

How do I make Brussels sprouts crispy?

To get crispy Brussels sprouts, start by cutting them in half. Cook them cut-side down in hot butter. Don't stir them too often. Let them brown for about 5-7 minutes. This gives them a great texture. You can also add a bit of cornstarch before cooking for extra crunch.

In this article, we explored the essentials of cooking Brussels sprouts. We covered the necessary ingredients, including optional ones for extra flavor. I shared easy step-by-step instructions for prepping and cooking. You learned tips to avoid common mistakes and how to enhance taste with variations. Lastly, we discussed proper storage and reheating methods.

Brussels sprouts are versatile and tasty. With practice, you can make them perfectly every time. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and techniques!