Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe smell of caramelized shallots wafting through my kitchen takes me back to my favorite autumn gatherings, where laughter and gratitude filled the air. This recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots is my go-to side dish for Thanksgiving; it marries the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with the sweet, smoky richness of caramelized shallots. It’s not just a healthy choice—this dish is also a crowd-pleaser, instantly elevating any meal. Imagine indulging in crispy sprouts that contrast beautifully with sticky sweet shallots and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this vegan-friendly recipe makes it easy to impress your guests. Ready to bring some warmth and flavor to your holiday table? Let’s dive in! Why are Caramelized Shallots a Game Changer? Deliciously Unique: The sweet and smoky caramelized shallots transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a standout dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Nutrient-Packed: This recipe is packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthful addition to any festive meal. Easy-to-Follow: Even novice cooks can master this simple yet impressive dish, making it perfect for your Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings. Versatile Pairing: This side dish complements everything from turkey to veggie mains, ensuring that it fits perfectly on any table setting. Make Ahead: Feel free to caramelize the shallots a day in advance; just reheat them before serving for a hassle-free preparation! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its combination of flavors and textures, this dish always garners rave reviews, making it a must-try at your next dinner party. Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Ingredients For the Brussels Sprouts • Brussels Sprouts – The stars of the show with their slightly bitter flavor that balances sweetness; you can swap for green beans or broccoli if desired. • Neutral Oil – Essential for roasting; feel free to use olive oil for added flavor. • Salt and Pepper – Key for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste. For the Caramelized Shallots • Shallots – Bring sweetness and aroma to the dish; yellow or red onions make great substitutes if you’re out of shallots. • Butter – Adds richness while caramelizing; opt for olive oil for a dairy-free alternative. • Maple Syrup – Provides natural sweetness and depth; honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute. • Smoked Paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness; regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor. • Cayenne Powder – Offers a spicy kick; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences or omit it altogether. • Lemon Juice – Brightens and balances flavors; apple cider vinegar is a perfect substitute if lemon isn’t available. • Hazelnuts – Add delightful crunch and nuttiness; pecans or walnuts can also work beautifully. This recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast! Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). This high temperature will ensure your Brussels sprouts achieve the perfect caramelization and tenderness during roasting. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for a smooth cooking process. Step 2: Caramelize the Shallots In a wide pot, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced shallots, stirring frequently. Allow shallots to cook for 15–30 minutes, until they develop a deep golden-brown color and become soft. They should be nicely caramelized and fragrant by the end of this step—just remember to stir occasionally to prevent burning. Step 3: Incorporate Hazelnuts As the shallots continue to caramelize, stir in the chopped hazelnuts. Cook for an additional 5–6 minutes, allowing the nuts to warm and enhance their flavor while mingling with the sweet shallots. You’ll want the hazelnuts to be lightly toasted and aromatic, adding a delightful crunch to your Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots. Step 4: Create the Smoky Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, smoked paprika, cayenne powder, and lemon juice until well combined. Pour this mixture over the caramelized shallots and hazelnuts in the pot, cooking for another 2–3 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, coating the shallots beautifully with a sweet and smoky glaze. Step 5: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts While the shallots are finishing up, halve the Brussels sprouts and arrange them cut-side down on a large baking sheet. Drizzle them with your choice of neutral oil, and sprinkle generously with salt to taste. This preparation will ensure they roast evenly, creating a lovely caramelization on the flat surfaces. Step 6: Roast the Brussels Sprouts Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven and roast for 17–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden-brown and become tender with a slightly crispy exterior. The goal is to achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures that complement the Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots. Step 7: Combine and Serve Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and top them with the sweet and smoky caramelized shallots. You can either serve them on a decorative platter or mix everything in a bowl to present at the table. This vibrant dish is bound to be a hit at your gathering! Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Patience is Key: The longer you caramelize shallots, the deeper the flavor. Take your time to avoid burning them, enhancing the dish’s sweetness. Hazelnut Toasting: To amplify crunch, toast hazelnuts lightly before adding them to the shallots. This brings out their rich flavor and makes the dish even tastier. Substitution Savvy: If shallots are unavailable, yellow or red onions can work just fine. Remember, this recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots is flexible! Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Each ingredient varies, so a quick taste test can elevate the dish beautifully. No Overcrowding: Give Brussels sprouts space on the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of that desirable caramelization. How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Fridge: Keep leftover Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted Brussels sprouts and caramelized shallots in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes, to restore their delicious texture. Preparation Tips: Consider caramelizing shallots a day in advance; store them in the fridge and then combine with roasted sprouts just before serving for a warm side dish. Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Variations Get ready to explore exciting twists on this delicious dish that will spark your culinary creativity! Nut-Free: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the allergens. These tiny seeds pack a nutritious punch too! Spicy Kick: Swap cayenne powder for chili flakes or fresh diced jalapeños to turn up the heat. It’s a fun way to add warmth and excite the taste buds! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of smoked paprika for a fragrant aroma. This simple swap adds a garden-fresh twist to every bite. Sweetness Upgrade: Substitute maple syrup with a touch of balsamic glaze for a sweet-tart flavor that will surprise and delight your guests. It’s a beautiful way to deepen the dish’s complexity. Savory Boost: Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for an umami experience that elevates the dish to new heights. The savory contrast will have everyone coming back for more! Zesty Variation: Incorporate orange juice or zest along with the lemon juice for a bright citrus flavor. This lively twist complements the sweetness of the shallots beautifully! Cheesy Touch: For a non-vegan option, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving. The salty, cheesy goodness ties everything together for a decadent finish. Flavorful Vinaigrette: Drizzle a homemade mustard vinaigrette over the finished dish for an added layer of zing. It’s a simple way to enhance flavors and sophistication! These variations can elevate your Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots experience, similar to the joy of indulging in dishes like Garlicky Brussels Sprouts or enjoying the lighter freshness of Spicy Calabrian Shrimp. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect flavor! What to Serve with Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Nothing complements the smoky-sweet essence of Brussels sprouts better than these delightful pairings at your holiday table. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery flavor serves as a perfect contrast to the crispy Brussels sprouts and caramelized shallots, providing a comforting base for your meal. Stuffed Acorn Squash: The natural sweetness of acorn squash, filled with grains and nuts, balances the smoky notes of the dish, creating a harmonious meal. Garlic Bread: The crunchy, garlicky, and chewy texture of garlic bread makes for a delightful side that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Brussels sprouts. Roasted Carrots: Their inherent sweetness, especially when caramelized, echoes the sweetness of the shallots, while providing vibrant color to your plate. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity, perfectly cutting through the richness of the roasted Brussels sprouts and shallots. Walnut-Studded Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette introduces a refreshing, crunchy element that complements the rich textures of your main dish. Herbed Quinoa: This nutritious side adds wonderful texture, with a nutty flavor that pairs well with the caramelized shallots, enhancing the overall meal experience. Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider brings a festive touch, providing a sweet and fizzy contrast that beautifully aligns with the dish’s flavors. Make Ahead Options These Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to savor flavors without the last-minute rush. You can caramelize the shallots up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. To maintain their rich flavor and texture, reheat the shallots gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before combining with the freshly roasted Brussels sprouts. While the sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, they can be prepared a couple of days ahead and refrigerated; just add a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of salt before roasting. Enjoy the convenience of this delightful side dish without sacrificing quality! Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots Recipe FAQs How do I select the best Brussels sprouts? When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for small, firm sprouts with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or dark spots. Fresh Brussels sprouts should feel solid and have a firm stem—these qualities mean you’ve found the best of the batch! How should I store leftovers of Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots? Store any leftover Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This simple method ensures they maintain their flavor and texture, ready for a quick reheat! Can I freeze Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the roasted Brussels sprouts and caramelized shallots to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a sealed bag, where they can keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. What if my shallots burn while caramelizing? If your shallots start to burn, lower the heat immediately and add a splash of water or broth to the pan. This helps to deglaze the pan and prevent burning while still allowing those delightful flavors to develop. Remember to stir regularly for even cooking! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? This recipe for Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots is vegan-friendly and free from common allergens if you use alternatives for dairy. However, if you have specific allergies—like nuts—consider swapping hazelnuts for seeds, such as sunflower seeds, for that much-needed crunch without allergens. Can I prepare the caramelized shallots in advance? Definitely! Caramelizing shallots ahead of time is a fantastic option. You can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to combine them with your Brussels sprouts before serving for a seamless and flavorful dish. Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots: A Flavorful Twist This recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Shallots is a perfect healthy side dish for Thanksgiving, combining earthy flavors with sweet shallots. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brussels Sprouts1 lb Brussels Sprouts Can substitute with green beans or broccoli2 tbsp Neutral Oil Olive oil can be used for more flavorto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Caramelized Shallots3 medium Shallots Yellow or red onions are great substitutes2 tbsp Butter Can substitute with olive oil for dairy-free2 tbsp Maple Syrup Honey or agave syrup can be used1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor1/4 tsp Cayenne Powder Adjust according to preference1 tbsp Lemon Juice Apple cider vinegar can be used if needed1/2 cup Hazelnuts Can use pecans or walnuts Equipment ovenWide potmixing bowlbaking sheet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC).Melt butter over medium heat in a wide pot. Add thinly sliced shallots and cook for 15–30 minutes until caramelized and fragrant, stirring occasionally.Stir in chopped hazelnuts and cook for an additional 5–6 minutes until lightly toasted and aromatic.Whisk together maple syrup, smoked paprika, cayenne powder, and lemon juice. Pour over the shallots and hazelnuts, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.Halve the Brussels sprouts and arrange cut-side down on a baking sheet. Drizzle with neutral oil and season with salt.Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 17–20 minutes until golden-brown and tender.Combine roasted Brussels sprouts with caramelized shallots and serve on a platter or mix in a bowl. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 85mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesConsider caramelizing shallots a day in advance; store in the fridge and combine with roasted sprouts just before serving for a warm side dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
