Easy and delicious, these stovetop Brussels sprouts have the perfect crispy outside and tender center. They only take 15 minutes to make and are the perfect weeknight side dish!
When they’re done perfectly, Brussels sprouts have been one of my favorite vegetables for years. The problem is that they’re tricky to get just right.
Often they’re either too soft and mushy or crisp but dry.
When I learned to make them on the stovetop, all of my problems were solved! Not only do they cook more quickly, but they also have the perfect texture every single time.
Why You’ll Love Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
Quick method – This is the fastest way to have perfectly-done Brussels sprouts every time!
Simple recipe – With only 4 simple ingredients, you won’t need to make a last-minute trip to the grocery store.
Perfectly tender and crispy – Stovetop Brussels sprouts have tender centers with that crispy outside we all love.
Rich, savory flavor – Brussels sprouts have a unique earthly flavor that pairs perfectly with so many dishes.
How to Store Leftovers
Stovetop Brussels sprouts are best eaten immediately after cooking since they lose their crispiness when stored.
However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for 3-5 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or in a skillet with a tiny bit of oil.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? – No, this method will make frozen Brussels sprouts mushy.
How do I prep Brussels sprouts in advance? – Brussels sprouts are best cooked right before serving, however, you can trim and halve them up to 2 days in advance.
How do I serve stovetop Brussels sprouts? – They make a delicious side dish for any hearty meal, especially rich meats like steak and meatloaf without eggs.
Tools You May Need
Large stainless steel skillet with lid
This post contains affiliate links which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.
Ingredients for Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
Fresh Brussels sprouts – For the best flavor, choose firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with compact heads.
Avocado oil – I always use avocado oil, but you can substitute your favorite cooking oil if you prefer.
Salt & pepper
Water
How to Make Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
First, begin heating your skillet over medium high heat. Make sure to use a skillet large enough for all of the Brussels sprouts to be in one layer for even cooking. If there’s a little bit of space between the Brussels sprouts, even better!
While it’s heating, chop the ends off of the Brussels sprouts and remove the outer leaves and any more that are damaged or yellowed.
Then cut the large Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise, and leave the small ones whole. The goal is for them to be approximately the same size for even cooking.
Next add the water and Brussels sprouts to the skillet, and put on the lid.
Let them steam for 6 minutes or until the water is pretty much gone. Watch them closely since they will burn quickly once the water has evaporated.
Then, remove the lid and add the oil, salt, and pepper. Stir the Brussels sprouts until they’re evenly coated.
Finally, sauté the Brussels sprouts for about 4 minutes until the outside is crispy. You can stir them once or twice while they’re sautéing to make sure they’re cooking evenly, but don’t stir any more than this.
Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish to any meal!
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Tag me on Instagram @violet_rightathome
More Clean Eating Side Dishes
Cheesy Balsamic Asparagus with Cranberries
How to Make Perfect Soaked Quinoa
Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole from Scratch
Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
- 1/3 cup avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat.
- Chop the ends off of the Brussels sprouts and remove the outer leaves and any more that are damaged or yellowed.
- Cut the large Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise, and leave the small ones whole.
- Add the water and Brussels sprouts to the hot skillet, and put on the lid.
- Steam for 6 minutes or until the water has evaporated.
- Remove the lid and add the oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the Brussels sprouts until they're evenly coated.
- Sauté them for about 4 minutes until the outside is crispy, stirring only once or twice.
- Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish!
This is the most reliable way for me to make perfect Brussels sprouts every time!