Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan

Few side dishes capture the festive warmth of the holiday season quite like Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts. The combination of tender, caramelized sprouts with the sweet tartness of cranberries and the buttery crunch of toasted pecans makes this dish both elegant and comforting — the perfect complement to any Christmas dinner or winter feast.

If you’ve only ever tried boiled or steamed Brussels sprouts, this recipe will completely change the way you see them. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, giving them a golden, crispy edge that pairs beautifully with the earthy, nutty undertones of pecans and the festive pop of cranberries.

This is the kind of side dish that earns a spot on your holiday table year after year — simple enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough for Christmas Day. It’s colorful, healthy, and full of texture, making it a perfect balance to rich holiday mains like roasted turkey, prime rib, or baked mac and cheese.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive colors and flavors: Red cranberries, golden sprouts, and brown pecans make your plate pop.

• Simple to prepare: Everything roasts on one sheet pan — minimal cleanup required.

• Perfect balance: Sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.

• Nutritious holiday side: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

• Vegan-friendly and gluten-free: Naturally inclusive for guests with dietary preferences.

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Ingredients

You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to create this stunning side dish.

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)

For the Toppings

• ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional but recommended)

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or rosemary, chopped

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Large sheet pan

• Mixing bowl

• Spatula or tongs

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Oven preheated to 400°F (200°C)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high temperature is key to getting that deep caramelization and crispy texture on the Brussels sprouts.

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Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends of your Brussels sprouts and remove any discolored outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise for even roasting.

Place the sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well until every piece is evenly coated.

Tip: For the crispiest edges, don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each sprout some breathing room.

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Step 3: Roast the Sprouts

Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are tender.

If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle maple syrup or honey over the sprouts after 15 minutes of roasting — it helps them caramelize beautifully.

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Step 4: Toast the Pecans

While the sprouts roast, add the pecans to a small skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye — pecans can burn quickly.

Set them aside to cool slightly.

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Step 5: Combine and Finish

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a serving bowl or platter. Add the toasted pecans and dried cranberries, then toss gently to combine.

For a gourmet touch, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary. The glaze ties everything together with a subtle sweetness and tang.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm. These sprouts are delicious alongside holiday favorites like roast chicken, glazed ham (or plant-based roast), mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese.

Bonus: They’re just as tasty at room temperature, making them a great make-ahead option for big gatherings.

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Flavor Notes

• Sweet: From caramelized sprouts, cranberries, and a hint of maple syrup.

• Savory: The earthy richness of roasted vegetables balanced by nutty pecans.

• Tangy: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

• Textural balance: Tender sprouts, chewy cranberries, and crunchy nuts.

Each bite offers that satisfying mix of flavors and textures that defines great holiday cooking.

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Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Cut evenly: Ensures uniform cooking.

• Use high heat: 400°F–425°F gives ideal caramelization without drying them out.

• Don’t overdo the oil: Too much will make them soggy; just enough for a light coating.

• Flip halfway through: Promotes even browning.

• Add toppings at the end: Keeps pecans crunchy and cranberries plump.

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Make-Ahead Instructions

You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time during busy holiday cooking.

• Up to 1 day before: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Roast and reheat: Roast the sprouts earlier in the day, then reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes before serving.

• Add toppings fresh: Mix in the pecans, cranberries, and glaze right before serving to maintain crunch and color.

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Storage and Reheating

To store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible — it softens the texture.

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Variations

• Add feta or goat cheese: For a creamy, tangy finish.

• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds: Any nut works beautifully here.

• Use fresh cranberries: Roast them alongside the sprouts for a tart pop.

• Add red onion or shallots: For deeper caramelized flavor.

• Make it spicy: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before roasting.

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Pairing Ideas

This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with both traditional and modern holiday mains:

• Roasted turkey or chicken

• Herb-crusted beef tenderloin

• Honey-glazed carrots or mashed potatoes

• Vegetarian lentil loaf or nut roast

• Baked mac and cheese or au gratin potatoes

For drinks, serve with sparkling cider, cranberry spritzers, or a simple mocktail for a festive pairing.

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Health Benefits

Brussels sprouts are one of the most nutritious vegetables you can include in your diet. This dish is not only beautiful but also incredibly nourishing:

• Rich in vitamin C and K for immune and bone health.

• High in antioxidants from Brussels sprouts and cranberries.

• Heart-healthy fats from pecans and olive oil.

• Naturally gluten-free and plant-based, perfect for inclusive holiday menus.

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Troubleshooting

Why did my Brussels sprouts turn out soggy?
You may have used too much oil or overcrowded the pan. Use a large baking sheet and ensure sprouts have space to roast, not steam.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry completely before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of brown sugar over low heat until thickened.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes — roast them with the sprouts for a tart flavor and beautiful burst of color.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)

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FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan?
It already is! Just use 100% pure maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan version.

Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, but use two sheet pans. Avoid overcrowding so the Brussels sprouts roast evenly.

What kind of cranberries should I use?
Dried sweetened cranberries work best, as they balance the roasted flavor of the sprouts.

Do I have to use pecans?
No, walnuts, pistachios, or even pumpkin seeds can substitute nicely.

Can I serve this cold as a salad?
Absolutely! It’s delicious at room temperature and makes a great next-day side or lunch.

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Why This Recipe Belongs on Your Christmas Table

When your holiday menu is full of creamy casseroles, rich roasts, and buttery mashed potatoes, a dish like this brings the perfect balance of freshness, texture, and festive flair.

The Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan is more than just a vegetable side — it’s a conversation piece. Its colors pop on the table, the aroma fills the room, and the combination of flavors brings warmth and brightness to your Christmas feast.

It’s easy to make, easy to love, and — best of all — easy to clean up. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or contributing to a potluck, this dish delivers sophistication with simplicity.

So this holiday season, let your oven do the work while you enjoy the sparkle of the season. A pan of these golden, caramelized, Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts will remind everyone at your table that vegetables can be just as exciting as the main course — maybe even better.