Longhorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe: Sweet, Spicy & Crispy Delight

Longhorn Brussels Sprouts offer a restaurant-quality side dish that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home.

These caramelized, savory sprouts deliver the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender centers that will convert even the most stubborn veggie skeptics.

The secret lies in the signature blend of seasonings and finishing touches that elevate humble sprouts to star status.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the beloved steakhouse classic that pairs beautifully with any protein.

Each bite delivers an irresistible combination of smoky, sweet, and umami flavors that keep you coming back for more.

You’ll love how these sprouts transform from overlooked vegetable to family favorite.

Making this crave-worthy dish requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.

The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the sprouts, creating deliciously crispy edges while the creamy sauce adds richness. Get ready for a side dish that frequently upstages the main course!

What Are Longhorn Brussels Sprouts?

Longhorn Brussels Sprouts are a signature side dish served at Longhorn Steakhouse, known for their crisp texture and bold flavor profile.

These Brussels sprouts are flash-fried or roasted until golden brown, then drizzled with a spicy, sweet glaze made with honey, chili, garlic, and a touch of smoky seasoning.

The result is a beautifully caramelized vegetable dish with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Unlike plain steamed sprouts, these deliver a crunch on the outside and tenderness on the inside, making them a standout addition to any dinner table.

Ingredients for the Recipe

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1½ pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Sweet & Spicy Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1½ tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste for heat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Optional Garnish:

• Crumbled crispy bacon
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures a crisp, caramelized finish on the Brussels sprouts.

2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts

• Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half.
• Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

3. Roast the Brussels sprouts

• Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
• Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and crispy on the edges. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end.

4. Make the sweet & spicy glaze

While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

5. Toss the Brussels sprouts in glaze

• Once the Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, place them in a large bowl.
• Pour the glaze over the hot Brussels sprouts and gently toss to coat evenly.

6. Serve immediately

• Transfer to a serving dish.
• Optional: Garnish with crispy bacon, toasted sesame seeds, or chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Roast Time: 20–25 minutes
• Glaze Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
• Servings: Makes 4 servings as a side dish. Easily doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep

Pro Tips for the Perfect Recipe

1. Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts roast better and hold their shape. Avoid pre-cut or frozen for best texture.
2. Dry thoroughly: Moisture prevents crisping. Pat the sprouts completely dry after washing to help them brown properly.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding traps steam and makes them soggy.
4. Add glaze after roasting: Tossing them in the glaze too early makes them soft. Always glaze just before serving to preserve crispness.
5. Customize the heat: Adjust the sriracha and red pepper flakes to your spice preference. For a milder version, use less or substitute with a sweet chili sauce.
6. Use an air fryer for extra crispiness: Air fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through, then glaze as directed.
7. Make it ahead: Roast Brussels sprouts ahead of time and reheat in the oven at 400°F for 5–7 minutes. Add glaze just before serving.

Storage Instructions for Longhorn Brussels Sprouts

To keep your Longhorn Sprouts tasting fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage tips:

Refrigerator Storage

• Cool completely: Let the sprouts come to room temperature before storing.
• Use an airtight container: Store in a sealed container to maintain texture and prevent absorption of odors.
• Refrigerate promptly: Keep them in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer Storage (Not Ideal)

• While you can freeze them, it’s not recommended as the texture will soften significantly.
• If needed, place in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To bring back the crispy texture and bold flavor, use one of these reheating methods:

1. Oven (Best Method for Crispiness)

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Reheat for 7–10 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Optional: Add a small drizzle of olive oil before reheating for extra crunch.

2. Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway through.

3. Stovetop

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Add a teaspoon of oil or butter.
• Sauté Brussels sprouts for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and edges are crisp.

4. Microwave (Least Recommended)

• Place sprouts on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel.
• Heat for 1–2 minutes. Texture may be soft, not crispy.

Tip: If sprouts were already glazed before storing, reheat separately and drizzle with a fresh bit of glaze right before serving for best flavor and presentation.

Tasty Variations of the Crispy Delight

Switch things up with these delicious and creative variations to suit different palates or occasions:

1. Maple-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Swap the honey for pure maple syrup and replace soy sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Adds rich, earthy sweetness and tang.

2. Asian-Inspired Brussels Sprouts

• Use hoisin sauce, a touch of sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds in the glaze.
• Garnish with chopped scallions and crushed peanuts.

3. Lemon Garlic Parmesan

• Omit the sweet-spicy glaze.
• Toss roasted sprouts with lemon zest, grated Parmesan, and extra garlic butter.
• Bright, cheesy, and perfect as a lighter side.

4. BBQ-Style Brussels Sprouts

• Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce with the glaze or use it as a base.
• Pairs great with grilled meats and southern-style meals.

5. Vegan Version

• Replace butter with plant-based butter or olive oil.
• Use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.

6. Bacon & Blue Cheese

• After glazing, sprinkle with crispy bacon and crumbled blue cheese.
• A bold, smoky, and savory twist.

Nutritional Benefits of the Irresistible Recipe

Brussels sprouts are more than just a flavorful side—they’re packed with essential nutrients that make them a healthy addition to your meals:

1. Rich in Vitamins

• Vitamin C: Boosts immunity, aids in collagen production, and acts as an antioxidant.
• Vitamin K: Supports bone health and proper blood clotting.

2. High in Fiber

• Promotes digestive health
• Helps regulate blood sugar levels
• Keeps you feeling full longer, supporting weight management

3. Antioxidant Power

• Contains compounds like kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

4. Low in Calories

• Naturally low in calories (around 38 calories per cup when roasted without glaze), making them ideal for balanced diets.

5. Supports Heart Health

• High fiber and antioxidants contribute to lower cholesterol and improved cardiovascular health.

6. Good Plant-Based Source of Protein

• While not high in protein, Brussels sprouts provide more than most vegetables around 3 grams per cup.

FAQs on Longhorn Brussels Sprouts

1. How can I make my Brussels sprouts extra crispy?

To achieve maximum crispiness:

• Blanch the sprouts briefly before roasting to soften the interior.
• Dry them thoroughly after blanching to remove excess moisture.
• Roast at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.

2. Is blanching necessary before roasting?

Blanching is optional but recommended. It helps achieve a tender interior and can reduce roasting time.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently before tossing with the roasted sprouts.

4. How should I store leftovers?

Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For best results, store the glaze separately and combine just before reheating.

5. What’s the best way to reheat them?

To maintain crispiness:

• Oven: Reheat at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for 4–5 minutes.
• Microwave: Not recommended, as it may result in sogginess.

6. Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?

Absolutely. Air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, yields crispy results.

7. Are there variations to the glaze?

Yes, you can customize the glaze by:

• Using maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
• Adding chipotle powder or Calabrian chili rub for a smoky heat.
• Incorporating garlic or parmesan cheese for added flavor.

8. Can I freeze the Brussels sprouts?

While possible, freezing may affect texture. If you choose to freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer and add fresh glaze before serving.

9. What can I serve with Longhorn Brussels Sprouts?

These sprouts pair well with grilled meats like steak or pork chops, roasted chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains and salads.