Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Hot Honey & Burrata: The Ultimate Game Day Appetizer

Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts. This Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Hot Honey & Burrata recipe transforms the humble sprout into a show-stopping, restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone begging for the recipe. Moreover, it masterfully combines contrasting textures and flavors into one unforgettable bite. Consequently, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game.

Imagine perfectly crispy, golden-brown edges giving way to a tender, almost creamy interior. Then, picture that savory crunch drizzled with a spicy-sweet hot honey that tingles your taste buds. Finally, envision it all resting on a bed of luxurious, cool burrata cheese that melts into a decadent sauce. Ultimately, this recipe is a symphony of taste and texture that feels indulgent yet remains surprisingly approachable to make at home.

This Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience. It bridges the gap between healthy vegetable and decadent treat, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or a casual game day gathering, this dish promises to be the star of the table. Let’s dive into how you can create this masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: This dish delivers a powerful punch of savory, sweet, and spicy notes. The natural bitterness of the roasted Brussels sprouts caramelizes into a nutty sweetness, which is then perfectly balanced by the fiery kick and floral sweetness of the hot honey. The rich, milky burrata adds a luxurious, cooling contrast that ties everything together.
• Texture: The texture journey is central to this recipe’s appeal. You get an incredible shatteringly crisp exterior from the smashed and roasted technique, followed by a soft, almost fluffy interior. The creamy, liquid center of the burrata provides a smooth, velvety base that contrasts beautifully with the crispy vegetable crunch.
• Aroma: As the sprouts roast, your kitchen will fill with the deep, nutty, and caramelized scent of roasting cruciferous vegetables. The hot honey, with its infusion of chili flakes or hot sauce, adds a warm, spicy aroma that mingles with the savory scents. When you tear open the burrata, its fresh, milky fragrance completes the sensory experience.
• Visual Appeal: This dish is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant green of the sprouts peeks through golden-brown, craggy edges. The glossy, amber-colored hot honey drapes over them beautifully, while the pristine white burrata ball, often oozing its creamy stracciatella, creates a stunning centerpiece on the plate. A final sprinkle of flaky salt and fresh herbs adds the perfect finishing touch.
• Skill Level Needed: This is a beginner-friendly recipe that yields impressive, professional-looking results. The key techniques—boiling, smashing, and roasting—are straightforward. Importantly, there’s no fancy knife work required. With careful attention to oven temperature and a watchful eye during roasting, even a novice cook can achieve perfect crispiness.
• Special Equipment: You need very little beyond standard kitchen gear. A large pot for boiling, a sturdy baking sheet, and parchment paper are essential. Additionally, a flat-bottomed glass, measuring cup, or mason jar lid is perfect for smashing the sprouts. A small saucepan is helpful for making the hot honey, though you can also microwave it.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: We rate this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe as “Easy.” The steps are simple and sequential: boil, smash, season, roast, and assemble. There are no complex techniques like emulsifying or tempering. The primary skill is monitoring the oven to prevent burning, which is manageable for cooks of all levels. Following the timing guidelines closely guarantees success.
• Category: This versatile dish straddles multiple categories beautifully. It functions supremely well as a shareable appetizer or starter for a dinner party. Alternatively, it can be served as a standout side dish alongside roasted meats like chicken or steak. For a vegetarian main course, simply increase the portion size and add a grain like farro or crusty bread for dipping.
• Cuisine: This recipe is a modern fusion creation with roots in American comfort food and Italian inspiration. The technique of smashing and crisping vegetables is popular in contemporary American cooking, while the use of burrata is a direct nod to Italian cheesemaking. The hot honey trend adds a Southern American twist, creating a globally inspired, delicious hybrid.
• Cost: This is a moderately priced dish that delivers high-end restaurant flavor. Brussels sprouts and basic pantry spices (oil, salt, pepper, chili flakes) are very affordable. The burrata and honey are the splurge ingredients, but a little goes a long way. Overall, you can feed four people a luxurious appetizer for less than the cost of one restaurant order.
• Season: While Brussels sprouts are a classic fall and winter vegetable, this recipe is fantastic year-round. Modern farming makes sprouts readily available in most seasons. The dish feels cozy in colder months but the bright, spicy honey and fresh cheese also make it feel light and appropriate for spring and summer entertaining.
• Occasion: This dish is incredibly versatile for events. It’s a guaranteed hit for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Simultaneously, it’s the perfect elevated snack for game day or a casual potluck. For a romantic date night at home, it creates an impressive, shareable plate that feels special without requiring hours of labor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First and foremost, the taste and texture combination is utterly addictive. The crispy smashed Brussels sprouts offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to a tender heart. Meanwhile, the hot honey introduces a complex sweetness with a slow-building heat that dances on your palate. Finally, the cool, rich burrata cuts through the spice and adds a luxurious creaminess, creating a perfect balance in every single bite. This dish will convert even the most ardent Brussels sprouts skeptics.

From a convenience standpoint, this recipe is a dream. The prep work is minimal and mostly hands-off. You can boil the sprouts ahead of time, and the roasting requires only occasional attention. Furthermore, the hot honey comes together in minutes on the stovetop or in the microwave. Consequently, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests, all while serving a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a professional chef’s kitchen.

Nutritionally, this dish packs a powerful punch. Brussels sprouts are a superfood, loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting them preserves more nutrients than boiling, and using olive oil adds healthy fats. While the burrata and honey add indulgence, they are used in moderation as accent flavors. Therefore, you get a vegetable-forward dish that feels decadent but is fundamentally nourishing.

For social and entertaining value, this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe is unmatched. It’s served family-style on a platter, encouraging sharing and conversation. The dramatic presentation—with the oozing burrata and glossy honey—creates an instant “wow” factor. It’s a conversation starter that shows thoughtfulness and culinary flair, making your guests feel specially treated without requiring you to slave over complicated courses.

Finally, this recipe is cost-effective and accessible. You likely have many of the core ingredients (oil, salt, pepper, chili flakes) in your pantry already. Brussels sprouts are consistently affordable, and one ball of burrata can generously serve four people as part of this dish. Compared to ordering a similar appetizer at a restaurant, you save a significant amount of money while achieving equal or better quality and flavor in the comfort of your home.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The story of the Brussels sprout itself begins in ancient Rome, but the vegetable as we know it was cultivated in the 16th century in the region that is now Belgium’s capital, hence the name. For centuries, they were a staple of Northern European winter diets. However, their reputation in America suffered for decades due to overcooking, often resulting in a sulfurous, mushy texture that turned many people away from this nutritious vegetable.

Culturally, the renaissance of the Brussels sprout is a fascinating tale of culinary evolution. Chefs in the early 2000s began applying new techniques—like roasting, frying, and shredding—to highlight the sprout’s natural sweetness and create appealing textures. This movement transformed it from a dreaded side dish to a trendy menu item. The “smashed” technique is a natural extension of this, maximizing surface area for caramelization and crispiness.

The evolution of this specific recipe reflects broader food trends. The use of hot honey, a condiment popularized in Brooklyn pizza shops, shows how global flavor fusion works. Combining it with Italian burrata cheese demonstrates a modern, borderless approach to cooking. This Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe is therefore a product of 21st-century food culture: taking a classic ingredient, applying an innovative technique, and accenting it with globally inspired, bold flavors.

Regional variations of preparing Brussels sprouts abound. In the American South, they might be cooked with bacon. In Italy, they are often paired with pancetta and chestnuts. The smashed method, however, is a relatively recent, technique-driven preparation less tied to a specific region and more tied to the internet age of recipe sharing. It’s a testament to how digital food communities can popularize a specific method and create a new “classic” in a short time.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Brussels Sprouts: These mini-cabbages are nutritional powerhouses, historically cultivated near Brussels, Belgium since the 16th century. They are exceptionally high in Vitamin K, crucial for bone health and blood clotting, and Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. When selecting sprouts, choose firm, bright green heads that are similar in size for even cooking; avoid any with yellowing leaves or a strong odor. Store them unwashed in a perforated bag in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer for up to a week. For a variation, try broccolini or cauliflower florets using the same smash-and-roast technique.

Burrata Cheese: Burrata, meaning “buttered” in Italian, is a fresh cheese from the Puglia region. It features a delicate mozzarella shell filled with stracciatella (soft cheese shreds) and cream, creating an unparalleled creamy texture. It provides protein and calcium, though it is richer than standard mozzarella. Seek out burrata packed in water, with a firm, plump pouch and a fresh, milky scent. Consume it within a day or two of purchase for peak quality. If unavailable, a high-quality fresh mozzarella ball or even a dollop of ricotta mixed with a touch of cream can serve as a substitute, though the dramatic creamy center will be different.

Hot Honey: This sweet and spicy condiment has roots in American culinary innovation, popularized by brands like Mike’s Hot Honey. The heat, typically from chili peppers or chili flakes, balances the sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile. Honey contains trace enzymes and antioxidants. For this recipe, you can easily make your own by gently warming honey with red pepper flakes, allowing the spice to infuse. Alternatively, a store-bought hot honey works perfectly. For a different twist, try maple syrup warmed with a dash of cayenne or sriracha.

Olive Oil & Seasonings: High-heat roasting requires a good quality oil with a high smoke point. Extra virgin olive oil is perfect, adding fruity notes while promoting crispiness. Flaky sea salt, like Maldon, is ideal for finishing as its delicate crystals provide bursts of salinity. Freshly cracked black pepper adds aromatic pungency. The chili flakes in the hot honey (and optionally tossed with the sprouts) introduce capsaicin, which can boost metabolism. Always use fresh spices for the brightest flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Boil: Boiling the Brussels sprouts before roasting is not an optional step. This crucial process softens the interior, making them tender enough to smash without falling apart. If you skip it, you’ll end up with hard, undercooked centers or sprouts that shatter when you try to press them.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Giving each smashed sprout plenty of space on the baking sheet is non-negotiable. Overcrowding causes them to steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy, limp vegetables instead of the desired crispy, caramelized edges. Use two pans if necessary to ensure proper airflow.
• Underseasoning: Season each layer generously. The boiling water should be well-salted like pasta water. Then, season again with salt and pepper after smashing and before roasting. Vegetables need ample seasoning to bring out their natural flavors, especially when roasted.
• Using a Blunt Smashing Tool: The tool you use to smash matters. A flat-bottomed glass or jar provides even pressure and creates the ideal craggy surface area. Using a fork or a tool with edges can tear the sprouts apart instead of flattening them uniformly.
• Neglecting the Hot Honey Infusion: If making your own hot honey, don’t just stir chili flakes into cold honey. Gently warming them together for a few minutes allows the capsaicin from the chili to properly infuse into the honey, creating a deeper, more integrated heat rather than a grainy, separate spice.
• Adding Burrata Too Early: Burrata is a delicate, fresh cheese. You must add it to the hot platter just before serving. If you place it on the roasting pan or add it too early, it will melt completely into a puddle and lose its beautiful, creamy center and structural appeal.
• Not Drying the Sprouts: After boiling, draining the sprouts thoroughly is critical. Any excess water left on the surface will steam during roasting, preventing crispiness. Let them sit in the colander for a minute and then pat them gently with a clean kitchen towel before smashing.
• Forgetting to Preheat the Pan & Oven: For maximum crispiness, preheat your baking sheet in the oven as it comes to temperature. Adding the oiled, smashed sprouts to a hot pan jumpstarts the searing process on the bottom, leading to an extra-crispy foundation.

Essential Techniques

Boiling to Par-Cook: Par-boiling is the secret to perfect texture in this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe. You boil the sprouts just until they are fork-tender but not mushy, usually about 10 minutes. This step ensures the tough core softens, guaranteeing a tender interior after roasting. The key is to test one sprout at the 8-minute mark; it should pierce easily with a knife but still offer slight resistance. Over-boiling will make them waterlogged and impossible to smash without disintegrating.

The Smash: Smashing is what creates the legendary crispy edges. After draining and drying the par-boiled sprouts, place them on your prepared baking sheet. Using a flat-bottomed glass, mason jar, or measuring cup, press down firmly on each sprout until it flattens to about 1/2-inch thick. The goal is to create a “patty” with lots of nooks and crannies. These crevices catch the oil and seasonings, becoming deliciously crispy and browned in the oven. Apply even pressure to avoid completely splitting them apart.

High-Heat Roasting: Roasting at a high temperature (425°F or higher) is non-negotiable for achieving crispiness without drying out the interior. The high heat rapidly caramelizes the natural sugars in the sprouts, creating a deep, nutty flavor and a brittle, crispy exterior. Position your oven rack in the center for even heat circulation. Resist the urge to stir them too often; letting them sit undisturbed for the first 15-20 minutes allows a proper crust to form. Look for deep golden-brown edges as your visual cue for doneness.

Infusing the Hot Honey: Creating a balanced hot honey involves gentle infusion. Combine honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm the mixture for 3-5 minutes, letting it barely simmer. This gentle heat unlocks the oils in the chili flakes, dispersing the spice evenly throughout the honey. Then, remove it from the heat and let it steep as it cools. The result is a harmonious blend where sweetness and heat are married, not competing. Straining is optional, depending on if you want visible flakes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Uniform Size is Key: Select Brussels sprouts that are similar in size, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This ensures they all boil and roast at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked and mushy while others are still hard in the center.

Salt the Water Generously: Season your boiling water as you would for pasta—it should taste like the sea. This is your first and most effective chance to season the sprouts from the inside out, enhancing their natural flavor throughout.

Preheat Your Baking Sheet: For an extra-crispy bottom crust, place your empty baking sheet in the oven as it preheats. Carefully remove the hot sheet, add oil, then place your smashed sprouts on it. The immediate sizzle sears the bottoms.

Don’t Skimp on Oil: Drizzle or brush a generous amount of olive oil over the smashed sprouts. The oil conducts heat and promotes Maillard reaction (browning), which is essential for both flavor and crispiness. Every nook should glisten.

Use the Convection Setting: If your oven has a convection bake setting, use it. The circulating air helps evaporate moisture more efficiently from the surface of the sprouts, leading to an even crispier result all around.

Finish with Flaky Salt: After roasting, immediately sprinkle the crispy smashed Brussels sprouts with a pinch of flaky sea salt. The heat helps the salt adhere, and the delicate crystals provide delightful bursts of salinity that enhance every other flavor.

Warm Your Serving Platter: Place your empty serving platter or bowl in the turned-off oven for a minute before assembling. A warm platter keeps the dish hot longer when you bring it to the table, preserving the wonderful contrast with the cool burrata.

Variations and Adaptations

Regional Variations: For a Southern twist, sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before serving. For an Italian-inspired version, replace the hot honey with a balsamic glaze and add toasted pine nuts. An Asian fusion take could use a glaze of sweet chili sauce mixed with soy sauce and sesame oil, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.

Seasonal Adaptations: In summer, add fresh corn kernels and cherry tomatoes to the roasting pan for the last 10 minutes. For fall, incorporate cubed sweet potato or butternut squash (par-boiled first) and toss the finished dish with toasted pecans. A winter version could include sliced roasted chestnuts and a hint of orange zest in the honey.

Dietary Modifications: For a vegan adaptation, omit the burrata and use a dollop of creamy vegan cashew cheese or a drizzle of tahini sauce. To make it dairy-free, simply skip the burrata—the crispy sprouts with hot honey are still phenomenal on their own. For a nut-free version, ensure any garnishes like pine nuts are omitted.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different infused honeys: try smoked chili honey, garlic-infused honey, or herb honey with rosemary or thyme. Alternatively, change the seasoning on the sprouts before roasting—add smoked paprika, garlic powder, or grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, umami crust.

Texture Modifications: For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little oil over the sprouts before roasting. For a richer, more tender result, drizzle the smashed sprouts with melted butter or garlic-infused oil instead of plain olive oil before they go in the oven.

Presentation Alternatives: Instead of one large burrata ball in the center, use small burrata “bocconcini” scattered around the platter. For individual servings, place a small mound of sprouts on each plate with a quarter of a burrata ball beside it. Serve the hot honey on the side in a small pitcher for dipping.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating Techniques: For a family-style presentation, arrange the crispy smashed Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large, warm platter or rustic wooden board. Create a well in the center and carefully place the whole burrata ball there. Drizzle the hot honey generously over the sprouts and let it pool around the cheese. This method encourages sharing and looks abundant and inviting.

Garnishing Ideas: Fresh herbs add color and a flavor lift. Finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, or basil are excellent choices. A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a crack of black pepper are essential. For added texture and visual appeal, consider garnishes like microgreens, edible flowers, pomegranate arils (in winter), or finely chopped toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds.

Traditional Accompaniments: While this dish stands alone beautifully, it pairs wonderfully with crusty, grilled bread or focaccia for scooping up the creamy burrata and honey. For a fuller appetizer spread, serve it alongside cured meats like prosciutto or salami, marinated olives, and a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Modern Serving Suggestions: Serve individual portions in shallow bowls for a more composed, restaurant-style presentation. Alternatively, use it as a topping for a gourmet pizza or flatbread after baking. You can also chop the roasted sprouts and burrata together to create a unique, chunky bruschetta topping for crostini.

Temperature Considerations: The magic of this dish lies in the temperature contrast. The sprouts and honey should be very hot when served, straight from the oven and saucepan. The burrata should be cool, straight from the refrigerator. This contrast between the hot, crispy vegetable and the cool, creamy cheese is a key part of the sensory experience.

Portion Control Tips: As an appetizer for four people, one pound of sprouts and one burrata ball is perfect. For a larger crowd, simply scale up the recipe, using multiple baking sheets. Remember that one burrata can reasonably serve 3-4 people when used as an accent; for more than six guests, add a second ball.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Wine Pairings: The sweet heat and rich cheese in this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe call for wines with good acidity and some sweetness to balance. An off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer is a fantastic match—their floral notes and slight sweetness complement the honey and tame the heat. For red wine lovers, a light, low-tannin red like a Beaujolais or Pinot Noir works well, as it won’t clash with the vegetable’s slight bitterness. A dry rosé with bright berry notes is another versatile and excellent choice.

Non-Alcoholic Alternatives: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime cleanses the palate between bites beautifully. For a more crafted option, try a ginger beer—its spicy sweetness mirrors the hot honey. An iced hibiscus tea (agua de jamaica) offers tartness that cuts through the richness, or a simple honey-ginger lemonade can be a direct and refreshing complement.

Coffee/Tea Pairings: While not a typical pairing for this dish, if serving as part of a brunch, a medium-roast coffee with low acidity would work. For tea, consider a smoky Lapsang Souchong, whose bold character can stand up to the strong flavors, or a soothing cup of peppermint tea to aid digestion after the rich meal.

Temperature Considerations: Serve white wines and sparkling beverages well-chilled, between 45-50°F. Red wines should be served slightly cooler than room temperature, around 55-60°F, to keep them refreshing. Non-alcoholic sparklers and iced teas should be very cold to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, spicy dish.

Serving Suggestions: Always offer water alongside any other beverage. Provide a separate glass for water to ensure guests can hydrate and cleanse their palates. If serving wine, consider pouring a small taste first to allow guests to see how the pairing works with the food before committing to a full glass.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storage Methods: Store leftover components separately for best results. Place cooled crispy smashed Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store any leftover hot honey in a sealed jar at room temperature. Burrata is highly perishable and should be consumed immediately; it does not store well once opened and exposed to air.

Temperature Requirements: Refrigerate the sprouts promptly after they cool to room temperature, ideally within two hours of cooking. Do not leave them at room temperature for extended periods. The hot honey is shelf-stable due to honey’s natural preservative qualities, but keep it in a cool, dark pantry.

Container Recommendations: Use a shallow, wide container for the sprouts to prevent them from steaming and becoming soggy. A glass container with a tight-fitting lid is ideal. For the honey, a small glass jar or squeeze bottle works perfectly and allows for easy reheating or drizzling later.

Signs of Spoilage: Discard the sprouts if they develop an off odor, become slimy, or show signs of mold. Burrata that smells sour, has an ammonia-like odor, or develops a yellow tint should be thrown away. Honey may crystallize over time, which is natural and safe; gently warm the jar in a bowl of hot water to return it to liquid form.

Reheating Instructions: To restore crispiness, reheat the sprouts in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes or in a conventional oven at 400°F on a baking sheet for 5-8 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy. Gently warm the honey jar in a bowl of hot water or for a few seconds in the microwave before using.

Freezing Guidelines: Freezing is not recommended for this assembled dish. The texture of the roasted sprouts becomes mushy and watery upon thawing. The burrata cannot be frozen. The hot honey can be frozen, but honey rarely needs freezing due to its long shelf life. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh.

Make Ahead Strategies

Prep Timeline: You can significantly streamline your cooking process. The day before, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Store them in a sealed bag in the fridge. You can also make the hot honey in advance and store it at room temperature. Measure out your oil and seasonings. Do not boil or smash the sprouts ahead of time, as this will negatively impact texture.

Storage Between Steps: If you need to boil the sprouts a few hours ahead, do so, then drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat them very dry and store them, unsmashed, in a single layer on a towel-lined tray in the refrigerator. This cools them completely and removes surface moisture, which can actually improve crispiness.

Quality Impact Assessment: Pre-boiling and chilling is an excellent strategy with minimal quality loss. The sprouts may even get crispier as the exterior dries out in the fridge. Pre-making the hot honey has no negative impact and allows flavors to meld. Pre-smashing, however, is not advised as the cut surfaces can oxidize and dry out.

Assembly Tips: On the day of serving, take your pre-boiled, chilled sprouts from the fridge. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while the oven preheats. Then, smash them on the baking sheet, season, oil, and roast. Gently warm the pre-made honey. Assemble the dish hot from the oven for the best possible result.

Reheating Guidelines: If you must fully cook the sprouts ahead, let them cool completely after roasting, then store as directed. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to re-crisp. The texture will be slightly less perfect than fresh, but still very good. Add the burrata and honey only after reheating and just before serving.

Fresh Element Additions: Always add the burrata at the absolute last moment. Its fresh, cool creaminess is a key contrast. Similarly, any fresh herb garnishes should be added after the dish is plated and just before it hits the table to maintain their vibrant color and aroma.

Scaling Instructions

Halving the Recipe: Halving this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe is simple for a smaller meal. Use 1/2 pound of sprouts and half the amount of all other ingredients. You can use a smaller baking sheet. The cook time may decrease slightly, so start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. One small burrata ball is still sufficient for two people as a generous accent.

Doubling or Tripling: For a crowd, double or triple the ingredients proportionally. The key is to use multiple baking sheets and roast them on separate oven racks. Rotate the sheets top-to-bottom and front-to-back halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cook time. For burrata, plan on one ball for every 3-4 guests.

Equipment Adjustments: When scaling up, ensure you have enough large pots for boiling and enough baking sheets that fit in your oven. Do not stack baking sheets; use one per oven rack. Consider roasting in batches if oven space is limited, keeping the first batch warm in a 200°F oven while the second cooks.

Timing Modifications: Larger batches may require slightly longer boiling times—test a sprout for tenderness. Roasting time may increase by 5-10 minutes for doubled recipes because the oven is more crowded, reducing air circulation. Watch carefully for visual cues of doneness (deep golden edges) rather than relying solely on the timer.

Storage Considerations: If making a large batch for a party, you can par-boil the sprouts several hours ahead as described in the make-ahead section. However, for the best texture, try to roast them in batches close to serving time. Leftovers store well, but the ideal experience is fresh from the oven.

Nutritional Deep Dive

Macro Breakdown: A serving of this Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe provides a balanced mix. The Brussels sprouts offer complex carbohydrates and fiber. The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are essential for nutrient absorption. The burrata adds protein and saturated fat. The honey contributes simple carbohydrates (sugars). Overall, it’s a dish with moderate calories that derives them from a variety of whole food sources.

Micronutrient Analysis: This dish is a micronutrient powerhouse. Brussels sprouts are exceptionally high in Vitamin K (important for bone health) and Vitamin C (a potent antioxidant). They also provide folate, potassium, and manganese. Burrata offers calcium for strong bones and teeth. The chili flakes in the hot honey contain capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and honey provides trace amounts of minerals and antioxidants.

Health Benefits: The fiber in the sprouts promotes digestive health and satiety. The antioxidants (like Vitamin C and various phytonutrients) combat oxidative stress in the body. The healthy fats from olive oil support heart health. Capsaicin from the chili may offer a slight metabolic boost. Together, these components make a dish that is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Dietary Considerations: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. It is vegetarian but not vegan due to the cheese. For those monitoring sodium, you can control the amount of salt added. For individuals watching sugar intake, the honey is a concentrated source; you can reduce the amount drizzled or use a sugar-free substitute like a monk fruit syrup infused with chili.

Portion Analysis: As an appetizer for four, each person gets a satisfying portion that stimulates the appetite without being overly heavy. The richness of the burrata and honey is balanced by the volume and fiber of the vegetables. It’s designed to be part of a meal, not the entire meal, which helps manage overall calorie and nutrient intake.

Weight Management Tips: To make this dish more weight-conscious, you can reduce the amount of olive oil by using an oil sprayer for a light, even coating. You can also reduce the amount of hot honey drizzled or serve it on the side for dipping. Increasing the ratio of sprouts to burrata will lower the calorie density while maintaining flavor and satisfaction.

Dietary Adaptations

Gluten-free: This Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Ensure that all packaged ingredients, like chili flakes, are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or a severe sensitivity, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur during processing.

Dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, simply omit the burrata. The crispy sprouts with hot honey are still incredibly flavorful on their own. For a creamy element, add a drizzle of dairy-free ranch or a tahini-lemon sauce after roasting. A dollop of vegan cashew cheese or coconut yogurt can also mimic some of the richness.

Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, omit the burrata and use a plant-based alternative{“success”:true,”message”:”Recipe created successfully”,”post_id”:9219,”tasty_recipe_id”:9219,”shortcode”:”“}

Chef Billy

I’m Billy, a classically trained culinary school graduate from The Culinary Institute of America with over 12 years in the restaurant industry and over 19 years of cooking experience.