Name: Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts (1 pound, trimmed and halved); Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tablespoon); Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon); Salt (½ teaspoon); Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon); Red Pepper Flakes (pinch, optional); Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon); Pasta (8 ounces, uncooked); Butter (2 tablespoons); Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped); All-Purpose Flour (2 teaspoons); Heavy Cream (1 cup or half and half); Parmesan Cheese (½ cup grated and more for garnish); Ground Nutmeg (pinch)

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts dancing in the oven fills the kitchen with warmth and charm. Each sprout transforms, revealing its crispy, caramelized edges while the creamy pasta simmers on the stove, waiting to join the party. This is Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta, a delightful fusion of flavors that warms your soul. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, the rich garlic Parmesan sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta

I still remember the first time I tried Brussels sprouts, reluctant at first but quickly captivated by their unique flavor. Now, they have become a staple in my kitchen, especially paired with pasta. Every bite of this dish reminds me of family gatherings, where we’d share stories and laughter over a hearty meal. It’s the kind of comforting dish that invites you to grab a fork and dig in. Are you ready to savor this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet, roasted Brussels sprouts paired with a creamy sauce is truly addictive.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green Brussels sprouts and rich pasta create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or even as a meal prep option for lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Brussels Sprouts (1 pound, trimmed and halved): These little gems provide a delightful crunch and natural sweetness when roasted. Look for firm sprouts without blemishes.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Essential for roasting, it helps achieve that crispy texture. You could substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): This adds a robust garlic flavor without the chopping. Fresh garlic can be used too if preferred!
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors in this dish. Sea salt or kosher salt both work well.
Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): For a touch of heat and depth. Freshly cracked pepper is ideal.
Red Pepper Flakes (pinch, optional): Add a bit of spice if you enjoy a kick in your pasta.
Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens up the flavors and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Pasta (8 ounces, uncooked): Any pasta shape will do, but fettuccine or penne works beautifully to hold the sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for the sauce. Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.
Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped): Fresh garlic brings a robust, strong flavor to the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour (2 teaspoons): Helps thicken the sauce nicely.
Heavy Cream (1 cup or half and half): Adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter version, substitute with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup grated and more for garnish): Enhances the creaminess and adds a savory depth. Feel free to use a vegan cheese if needed.
Ground Nutmeg (pinch): A subtle hint of nutmeg amplifies the warm flavors in the sauce.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). As it warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until they are evenly coated and fragrant, making sure to enjoy that aroma as you go. Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a large baking sheet, ensuring they sit mostly flat-side down for optimal roasting.

Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-30 minutes. Watch closely as they should become golden brown and caramelized, which indicates their delicious flavor is being unleashed. Once they’re crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, drizzle with a touch of lemon juice to brighten their flavor before setting them aside.

Cook the Pasta: While the Brussels sprouts roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions for timing, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water for later and then drain the pasta, setting it to the side to keep warm.

Make the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the freshly chopped garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant—this is where the magic begins. Sprinkle in the flour, allowing it to bubble and cook until golden, about a minute more. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, taking care to enjoy the aroma of the creamy garlic sauce. Stir in the Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg, and if it feels too thick, adjust with reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Pasta: Combine the cooked pasta and roasted Brussels sprouts in the skillet, gently tossing until everything is beautifully coated in that rich sauce. The aroma wafts around you, inviting you to serve it up! Transfer to serving bowls and top with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that final touch. Enjoy this delightful dish while it’s warm, and take a moment to relish the glorious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to make ahead, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or more cream to refresh the texture and flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts; they should be tender but still have a slight crisp.
If you want to switch up the flavors, try adding cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory kick.
For a lighter option, substituting half the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth will still yield a delicious sauce.
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a little more flour to thicken it.
This dish is a great meal prep option—just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you are ready to enjoy.

As you dive into this creamy creation, you’ll soon discover how comforting a simple pasta dish can be. The sweet caramelized Brussels sprouts add a layer of depth that makes this dish a standout favorite. Experiment with the ingredients and adjust to your liking; who knows what delicious variations you might discover? Enjoy every moment of cooking and savor the flavors of this beautiful meal!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but it’s best to thaw and drain them first. Roasting them will give you the best texture since they will be less likely to become mushy compared to being boiled.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Other veggies like butternut squash, asparagus, or even spinach can work beautifully. Just make sure to adjust roasting times accordingly for added vegetables.

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative and use a vegan butter along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor instead of parmesan cheese.

How do I know when the pasta is cooked perfectly?

The best way to test pasta is to taste it! It should have a slight bite (“al dente”) that you can feel but isn’t hard. Following package directions and checking a minute or two before it’s done will help you nail it every time.