Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts + Sausage Skillet

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to dive into a dish that’s both hearty and full of rustic charm? Today, we’re making a warm, satisfying recipe that feels like it came straight from a countryside kitchen: Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts + Sausage Skillet. 🥔🌿🥘

There’s something truly comforting about the combination of golden-browned Brussels sprouts, sizzling sausage, and the rich aroma of garlic and herbs filling your kitchen. This recipe is not just about flavor—it’s about texture, too. Imagine those sprouts: first boiled until tender, then smashed, roasted (or skillet-crisped) until edges are caramelized and crunchy. Pair that with juicy, well-seasoned sausage, and you’ve got a rustic one-pan meal that will win over even the toughest critics of Brussels sprouts.

Traditionally, sprout dishes were considered humble, peasant-style foods in European kitchens, often paired with pork or sausage for a protein-rich, affordable family meal. This skillet celebrates that heritage, keeping things simple while elevating the flavors with modern flair. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend gathering, or even as a festive side dish, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.

Let’s get cooking together—you’ll love how quickly this comes together and how beautifully it presents at the table. Ready? Let’s smash, crisp, and sizzle our way to flavor heaven! 😍🔥

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Ingredients:

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 ½ lbs fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Sausage Skillet:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter (for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for serving
• Lemon wedges for brightness

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🔪 Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prep the sprouts 🥦
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for about 7–8 minutes, until just fork-tender. Drain well and pat dry.
2. Smash them 🥔
   Place sprouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press each sprout until flattened but still holding together.
3. Roast until crispy 🔥
   Drizzle sprouts generously with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
4. Cook the sausage 🥩
   While the sprouts roast, heat a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking into crumbles, until browned and cooked through (7–8 minutes).
5. Add aromatics 🌿
   Stir in the sliced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in thyme and red pepper flakes for extra depth.
6. Bring it all together 🍳
   Add the crispy smashed Brussels sprouts into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Toss gently to combine, letting flavors mingle. Stir in butter for a glossy finish.
7. Finish & serve ✨
   Garnish with chopped parsley and optional grated Parmesan. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, with lemon wedges on the side.

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🍴 Nutritional Information:

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 30 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Sodium: ~780mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

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🌟 Friendly Hashtags:

#BrusselsSproutsLove #RusticCooking #SausageSkillet #ComfortFoodAtHome #OnePanDinner #TraditionalFlavors #CrispyGoodness

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️