Savory Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Ham Delight

You know, Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap—like, who hasn’t heard someone grimace at the mention of them? But trust me, when they’re roasted, they totally transform! They get this beautiful, deep flavor and crispiness that makes them absolutely irresistible. I mean, just picture that—gorgeous, caramelized Brussels sprouts mingling with savory ham… it’s a match made in heaven! So, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively holiday bash, this savory roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy ham delight is one dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Crave It

• It’s quick—prep and cook in under an hour!
• Perfect harmony of flavors; the salty, savory ham complements the earthy sprouts.
• Great for any occasion; fancy enough for parties but easy enough for a weeknight.
• Healthier than most sides but so flavorful you won’t even notice.

The first time I made this, my entire family was fighting over the last few bites…!

What You’ll Need

• Brussels sprouts: 1 pound, trimmed and halved, try to pick the smaller ones for that perfect bite!
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, just enough to coat without drowning them.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, because a little seasoning makes a big difference.
• Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, you can always add more if you love that spicy kick.
• Cooked ham: 1 cup, diced—use leftover holiday ham if you have it, or whatever’s handy.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, because garlic makes everything better!
• Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated, totally optional but oh-so-good.

Easy How-To

Getting Started

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (that’s about 204°C). You want it hot, hot, hot—this helps the Brussels sprouts get all crispy and golden. While that’s happening, trim the stem ends off the Brussels sprouts, and, um, be on the lookout for any yellow leaves. You want them looking fresh and ready for roasting. If they’re huge, cutting them in half helps them cook evenly. It’s pretty straightforward, really!

Mix It Up

Now, grab a big bowl and toss those clean sprouts in there with the diced ham. Drizzle with the olive oil, and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and that fragrant garlic. Give everything a good toss… like, really mix it up so every little piece gets some love and seasoning. You want to see that shiny coating… makes such a difference!

Time to Roast

Spread everything out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t crowd them, because we wanna let them breathe and get all crispy—that’s key! Pop that baking sheet into your hot oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through for even roasting. You’ll want them tender and lightly browned… just the way they should be!

Serving It Up

Once they’re done roasting, take that sheet out and let the smell hit you before serving… oh man, it’s heavenly! Serve warm and, if you want, toss a little more black pepper on top for that extra kick. You can even sprinkle some Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!

Good to Know

• Choosing small to medium Brussels sprouts ensures they roast nicely and taste sweeter.
• If you have leftovers—lucky you—they store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in an oven or a skillet, and they’ll still taste delightful!

Serving Ideas

• These beauties make a fantastic side for roasted chicken or a hearty steak… seriously, they pair well with nearly everything!

Top Tricks

• If you wanna get a bit adventurous, try adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar before serving—it adds a nice tang!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I roast Brussels sprouts?

They usually need about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on their size. Just keep an eye out for that perfect golden-brown color!

What temperature is best for roasting Brussels sprouts?

400°F (200°C) is your go-to temperature—it’s perfect for getting them crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Can I prepare Brussels sprouts in advance?

Absolutely! You can wash and trim them a day or two ahead. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.

What can I substitute for ham?

If you want a vegetarian option, mushrooms or even roasted veggies work great, but you could also add some roasted chickpeas for that extra protein kick!

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And there you have it! This dish is not just about the Brussels sprouts, it’s all about bringing people together around the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s a real crowd-pleaser!