Steamed Brussels sprouts are your ticket to a crisp-tender, nutrient-packed side dish in just 10 minutes. Their vibrant green color and delicate, slightly sweet flavor shine bright with minimal effort. The gentle steam locks in their natural crunch while softening the inner layers to perfection.
This recipe is a effortless way to elevate your meal with a dish that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances their earthy notes, making them a versatile pairing for any main course. Quick, healthy, and bursting with freshness, these sprouts are a weeknight hero you’ll return to again and again.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb brussels sprouts (trimmed and cut in half for even cooking)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper (freshly cracked for the best flavor)
How to Make Steamed Brussels Sprouts
- Place a steamer basket into a medium-sized pot. Add water until it’s about 1 inch below the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- While the water heats, trim the stems of the brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
- Once the water is boiling, add the brussels sprouts to the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 5 minutes, or until they are tender but still vibrant green. (Check for doneness by piercing a sprout with a fork—it should be tender but not mushy.)
- Remove the pot from the heat and carefully take off the lid to avoid the steam. Transfer the steamed brussels sprouts to a bowl.
- Add the butter, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the brussels sprouts. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the sprouts are evenly coated.
- Serve immediately while warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Transform Your Sprouts with Sauces and Toppings
Want to elevate your steamed Brussels sprouts? Try tossing them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist. For a creamy option, mix in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan or a dollop of garlic aioli. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle with toasted almonds or crispy bacon bits for extra crunch!
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These steamed Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish for roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty steak. For a light meal, pair them with quinoa or a simple green salad. They’re also a great addition to holiday spreads, like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners!
Storage and Reheating Made Simple
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or toss them in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over medium heat until warmed through. Pro tip: Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep them tender and vibrant.
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Prep
Save time by purchasing pre-trimmed Brussels sprouts at the store. If you need to trim them yourself, use a sharp knife to slice off the stems and halve them in one quick motion. For even faster prep, consider using a mandoline slicer—just be careful with those fingers!
Equipment Essentials for Perfect Steaming
Make sure your steamer basket fits snugly in your pot to avoid wobbling. If you don’t have a steamer basket, improvise by using a heatproof colander or even a metal strainer. Just ensure the Brussels sprouts aren’t sitting directly in the water for the best results!
Steamed Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussels sprouts trimmed and cut in half
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Place a basket steamer into a medium pot. Add water until its about an inch below the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring to a boil.
- While the water is heating up, trim and half your brussels sprouts.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to steamer basket and place the lid on the pot. Steam for 5 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached.
- Remove the pot from the heat, and carefully remove the lid.
- Add the steamed brussels sprouts to a bowl with the butter, salt, and pepper, and stir until the butter is melted and the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
- Serve warm.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.