LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Why LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe Are a Favorite

LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts have gained a loyal following for their irresistible combination of crispy texture, sweet and savory glaze, and a touch of spice. These sprouts are the perfect side dish, balancing bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. While they’re a restaurant favorite, the good news is you can recreate them easily at home. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish anytime. Whether served alongside steak, chicken, or on their own, LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts are a delicious way to elevate your meals.

Ingredients for LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

To capture the signature flavors of LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts, you’ll need these key ingredients:

1. Brussels Sprouts:
   • Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for achieving the perfect balance of tender interiors and crispy edges.
2. Olive Oil:
   • Used for roasting the sprouts to golden perfection, olive oil ensures even cooking and enhances their natural flavors.
3. Butter:
   • Adds richness to the dish and helps bind the honey glaze to the sprouts.
4. Honey:
   • The star of the glaze, honey provides a sweet counterpoint to the sprouts’ savory and slightly bitter flavor.
5. Chili Powder:
   • Brings a subtle smoky heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
6. Spices:
   • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika round out the flavor profile, making the dish bold and well-seasoned.

These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a restaurant-worthy side dish that’s easy to make at home.

Choosing the Best LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

The quality of your Brussels sprouts makes all the difference in recreating LongHorn’s signature dish. Here’s how to pick the best ones:

1. Look for Freshness:
   • Choose bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or spots.
2. Firm Texture:
   • Gently squeeze the sprouts; they should feel firm and dense, not soft or squishy.
3. Even Size:
   • Select sprouts that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. If some are larger, you can halve them for more uniform roasting.

Following these tips ensures your sprouts cook evenly and achieve the perfect crispness.

Prepping the LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Proper preparation is key to achieving tender yet crispy Brussels sprouts. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Clean Thoroughly:
   • Rinse the sprouts under cold running water to remove dirt or debris.
2. Trim the Ends:
   • Cut off the woody stem at the bottom of each sprout. Be careful not to remove too much, as this holds the leaves together.
3. Halve Larger Sprouts:
   • Cut larger sprouts in half for even cooking. Leave smaller ones whole for variety in texture.
4. Optional Blanching:
   • For extra tender sprouts, blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step is optional but helps reduce bitterness.

Prepping the sprouts properly sets the foundation for a perfectly cooked dish.

Seasoning the LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Simple seasoning ensures your Brussels sprouts roast to golden perfection with great flavor.

1. Toss with Olive Oil:
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cleaned and trimmed sprouts with 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil to coat them evenly.
2. Season Generously:
   • Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. Adjust seasonings to your taste.
3. Spread Evenly on a Baking Sheet:
   • Arrange the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly and develop crispy edges.

Seasoning the sprouts before roasting creates the perfect base for the glaze and enhances their natural flavors.

Roasting the Brussels Sprouts

Roasting is the key to achieving crispy, golden edges and tender interiors. Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even roasting. A higher temperature ensures crispy exteriors while keeping the insides tender.
2. Arrange for Even Cooking:
   • Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down if halved. Overcrowding the pan traps moisture and prevents crisping, so use two sheets if needed.
3. Roast Until Golden:
   • Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the sprouts halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning but let the edges caramelize for maximum flavor.

Proper roasting enhances the sprouts’ natural sweetness while creating a satisfying crunch.

Making the Sweet and Spicy Sauce

The sweet and spicy glaze is what sets LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts apart. Here’s how to make it:

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add Honey:
   • Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Spice it Up:
   • Add 1/2 teaspoon each of chili powder and smoked paprika for heat and depth. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
4. Season to Taste:
   • Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper, and optionally add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
5. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat and simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a smooth, glossy sauce.

This sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy, elevating the roasted Brussels sprouts.

Combining the Sauce and Sprouts

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to golden perfection, it’s time to coat them in the sweet and spicy sauce.

1. Transfer to a Bowl:
   • Place the roasted sprouts in a large mixing bowl, leaving any excess oil on the baking sheet.
2. Pour the Sauce:
   • Drizzle the warm sauce over the sprouts, using a spatula or spoon to toss until evenly coated.
3. Optional Garnishes:
   • For added flavor and presentation, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • The sauce is best when freshly mixed with the hot sprouts, ensuring maximum flavor and crispness.

This final step ties all the elements together, delivering a dish that’s sweet, smoky, and utterly irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes or stand alone as a delicious appetizer. Here are some serving ideas:

1. With Steak:
   • Serve alongside a juicy grilled steak to complement the smoky, sweet flavors of the sprouts.
2. With Chicken:
   • Pair with roasted or grilled chicken for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
3. With Seafood:
   • Combine with pan-seared salmon or shrimp to add a fresh, light balance to your plate.
4. As an Appetizer:
   • Serve them on their own as a finger food or snack at gatherings. Add toothpicks or small plates for easy sharing.
5. Over Rice or Quinoa:
   • Turn them into a complete meal by serving over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with additional sauce or protein.

These serving ideas make LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts a versatile addition to any menu.

Customizing the Recipe

LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts are easy to customize to suit your taste preferences or experiment with new flavors:

1. Add Balsamic Glaze:
   • Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for an extra layer of tangy sweetness.
2. Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese:
   • Add freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a savory, cheesy twist.
3. Adjust Spice Levels:
   • Increase chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes for more heat. For a milder version, reduce the spices slightly and add more honey.
4. Incorporate Nuts or Seeds:
   • Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
5. Add Garlic:
   • Toss in roasted or sautéed garlic for an aromatic, savory addition.

These customizations allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences or create something new.

Healthier Alternatives

For a lighter version of LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts, try these healthier substitutions:

1. Light Butter:
   • Use a reduced-fat butter or vegan alternative to cut down on calories and saturated fats.
2. Reduce the Honey:
   • Use less honey, or substitute it with natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
3. Skip the Butter:
   • Toss the roasted sprouts in a light vinaigrette instead of butter for a fresher take.
4. Roast Without Oil:
   • Use a non-stick baking sheet or parchment paper to minimize the amount of oil needed for roasting.
5. Add More Veggies:
   • Mix in roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a nutrient-packed side dish.

These alternatives retain the dish’s delicious flavors while making it a healthier choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your LongHorn-style Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Soggy Sprouts:
   • Cause: Overcrowding the baking sheet traps steam, preventing crisping.
   • Solution: Spread the sprouts in a single layer with space between them. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
2. Overcooking:
   • Cause: Roasting for too long at a high temperature can burn the edges and leave the centers mushy.
   • Solution: Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3. Oversalting:
   • Cause: Adding too much salt during seasoning or using salted butter and soy sauce without adjustment.
   • Solution: Lightly salt the sprouts before roasting and adjust seasoning after adding the sauce.
4. Undercooked Sprouts:
   • Cause: Not trimming evenly or failing to halve larger sprouts.
   • Solution: Trim the stems and halve sprouts larger than an inch for consistent cooking.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your sprouts are perfectly crisp, flavorful, and evenly cooked.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Brussels sprouts can be just as delicious if stored and reheated properly. Follow these tips to maintain their crispness and flavor:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers:
   • Allow the sprouts to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
2. Freezing:
   • While it’s possible to freeze roasted Brussels sprouts, it’s best to avoid freezing if you want to retain their crispy texture. Frozen sprouts tend to become softer when reheated.
3. Reheating for Crispiness:
   • In the Oven: Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
   • In a Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil or butter and toss the sprouts until warmed and slightly crisp.
   • Avoid the Microwave: Microwaving will make the sprouts soggy, so it’s not recommended for reheating.

By following these tips, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful Brussels sprouts even as leftovers.

FAQs on LongHorn Brussels Sprouts Recipe

1. How does Gordon Ramsay cook his Brussels sprouts?

Gordon Ramsay prepares his Brussels sprouts with a focus on flavor and texture. His method typically involves:

• Blanching the sprouts briefly in boiling salted water to soften them slightly.
• Sautéing them in a hot pan with olive oil, garlic, pancetta or bacon for added richness, and a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors.
• Finishing with toasted nuts or breadcrumbs for crunch. This technique results in Brussels sprouts that are tender, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized.

2. Why are restaurant Brussels sprouts so much better?

Restaurant Brussels sprouts often taste better because of several key factors:

• High-Heat Cooking: Restaurants use professional ovens or fryers to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.
• Generous Seasoning: They don’t shy away from salt, spices, or bold ingredients like bacon, honey, or balsamic glaze to enhance flavor.
• Perfect Timing: Chefs know exactly how long to cook sprouts for optimal caramelization without overcooking.
• Butter and Oil: Restaurants often use butter and high-quality oils liberally, adding richness and depth to the dish.

3. How much are the Brussels sprouts at LongHorn Steakhouse?

At LongHorn Steakhouse, the Brussels sprouts are typically priced as a premium side dish, ranging from $5 to $8 depending on the location. They’re often part of the menu’s seasonal or specialty items, making them a popular choice for those seeking a flavorful and elevated side dish.

4. Why won’t my Brussels sprouts get crispy?

If your Brussels sprouts aren’t getting crispy, it could be due to the following reasons:

• Overcrowding: Crowding the baking sheet traps steam, preventing crisping. Always spread the sprouts in a single layer with space between them.
• Low Oven Temperature: Roasting at temperatures below 400°F (200°C) won’t create the high heat needed for caramelization.
• Too Much Moisture: Washing the sprouts without thoroughly drying them leaves excess water, which can make them steam instead of roast. Pat them dry before cooking.
• Insufficient Oil: Not using enough oil can prevent the sprouts from crisping up. Toss them generously with olive oil to coat evenly.

By addressing these issues, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy and golden Brussels sprouts every time.

• Link to the Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe to suggest a fresh and vibrant side that complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Include the Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe as another bold-flavored dish that could pair well with the sprouts for a diverse meal.
• Reference the Chick-fil-A Kale Salad Recipe for readers looking for additional healthy, green side dishes to accompany their meals.

Conclusion

LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making them a standout side dish for any meal. The crispy, caramelized sprouts paired with the rich honey glaze and a hint of heat deliver a taste that’s both bold and comforting. Whether you’re serving them alongside steak, chicken, or enjoying them as a standalone appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to recreate this restaurant favorite at home. Give it a try and bring the irresistible flavors of LongHorn’s Brussels sprouts to your table!