Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, Blue Cheese, and Pecans: The Ultimate Holiday Side Dish

Elevate your holiday table or transform a regular weeknight meal with these exceptional Roasted Brussels Sprouts featuring creamy blue cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans. This savory-sweet side dish is not only a festive crowd-pleaser but also an ingenious way to introduce your family to the delightful world of Brussels sprouts. Prepare to fall in love with this vibrant and flavor-packed recipe!

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, largely due to unfortunate childhood experiences with overcooked, bitter versions. For many years, these little green gems rarely made an appearance on my dinner table, and honestly, I didn’t give them a second thought. However, in the last five years, my culinary perspective shifted dramatically. After giving them a fair chance, particularly when roasted to perfection, I’ve developed a profound appreciation for their unique flavor and versatility. They’ve become a staple, and this recipe for Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is undeniably a new favorite that highlights everything wonderful about them.

What truly elevates this dish is the masterful combination of textures and flavors. I’m utterly captivated by the crispiness achieved through roasting, which transforms the Brussels sprouts into tender, slightly caramelized bites. This is beautifully complemented by the rich, tangy creaminess of blue cheese (or the milder notes of goat cheese if you prefer), the burst of sweetness from dried cranberries, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. Every forkful offers a symphony of tastes, making it an irresistible addition to any meal, especially during the festive holiday season.

I find joy in experimenting with various Brussels sprout recipes to keep things exciting. Today’s creation truly embodies this spirit of culinary exploration. The pairing of savory roasted sprouts with creamy cheese, sweet fruit, and earthy nuts might sound unconventional to some, but I assure you, it’s a revelation. If you’re already a fan of Brussels sprouts, prepare to be amazed. If you’re a skeptic, this might just be the recipe that converts you. Roasting isn’t just my preferred method; it’s essential for coaxing out their best flavor and achieving that desirable crispy texture.

As you plan your holiday menus for Thanksgiving or Christmas, consider these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries a must-add. Their festive colors and sophisticated flavor profile make them an ideal complement to traditional holiday fare. Beyond the holidays, this dish is simple enough to prepare as an impressive side for any weeknight dinner.

If you’re looking for other ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable, be sure to explore my Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts for a tangy twist, or indulge in the savory goodness of these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brussels Sprouts Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of savory, sweet, tangy, and creamy elements creates a truly addictive side dish. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of cranberries and honey, while the cheese adds a rich, salty counterpoint.
• Irresistible Texture: Roasting ensures the Brussels sprouts are tender on the inside with deliciously crispy, caramelized edges. The crunchy pecans add another layer of satisfying texture.
• Holiday-Ready & Versatile: With its festive colors and gourmet feel, this dish is a natural fit for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other special occasions. Yet, it’s easy enough for a regular family dinner.
• Simple to Prepare: Despite its impressive appearance and flavor, this recipe is incredibly straightforward. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you’ll have a fantastic side dish ready in under an hour.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, making this a delicious way to get your greens. The nuts add healthy fats and protein, too!
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Essential Recipe Ingredients

Crafting this delightful side dish requires a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:

• Brussels Sprouts: These cruciferous vegetables are, without a doubt, the star of this savory side. For optimal results, select fresh, firm sprouts with tight leaves and a vibrant green color. Proper preparation is key: wash them thoroughly, peel away any loose or discolored outer leaves, and trim the woody ends. Slicing them in half (or quarters if they’re particularly large) before roasting ensures even cooking and maximizes the surface area for that coveted caramelization and crispiness.
• Blue Cheese (or Goat Cheese): The creamy, pungent blue cheese introduces a bold, savory, and slightly salty counterpoint that beautifully contrasts with the other flavors. Its rich texture melts slightly when warm, coating the sprouts with a luxurious finish. If the robust flavor of blue cheese isn’t to your liking, creamy goat cheese offers a milder, tangier alternative that is equally delicious. For other creamy and salty options, consider crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Nuts: Toasted pecans are chosen for their buttery, earthy flavor and satisfying crunch, which adds a wonderful textural dimension to the dish. Beyond taste, pecans offer healthy fats and nutrients. If you’re looking to vary the flavor or use what you have, walnuts provide a similar earthy depth, while sliced almonds or pistachios would offer a different, yet equally appealing, crunch. Lightly toasting them before adding them truly brings out their flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: These jewel-toned berries bring a burst of sweet-tart flavor and a chewy texture that complements the roasted sprouts and sharp cheese. Their vibrant color also adds a festive touch, making the dish visually appealing. Don’t have cranberries? Sweet raisins or diced dried apricots can be excellent substitutes, offering similar sweetness. This is also a fantastic way to utilize any leftover cranberry sauce from your holiday feast, although for this recipe, dried cranberries are preferred for texture.
• Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Honey, Salt & Pepper: These foundational ingredients create the perfect roasting environment and glaze for the Brussels sprouts. Olive oil helps them crisp and brown, while a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and honey adds a delightful sweet and tangy glaze, enhancing their natural flavors and caramelization. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper ties all the elements together.

Creative Ways to Modify These Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are several ideas to inspire your modifications:

• Nuts: While pecans are fantastic, a variety of nuts would be equally delicious. Consider walnuts for a similar earthy flavor, sliced almonds for a delicate crunch, pistachios for a vibrant green color and distinct taste, or pine nuts for a slightly sweeter, buttery note. Each nut brings its unique character to the dish.
• Cheese: Beyond blue cheese and goat cheese, there are many creamy and crumbly cheeses that would complement these sprouts. Try gorgonzola for another strong, tangy blue cheese option, crumbled feta for a salty and briny kick, grated Parmesan cheese for an umami-rich depth, or even soft mozzarella cheese for a milder, gooey texture when warm.
• Vegetables: To boost the nutritional content or add more variety, you can easily incorporate other vegetables. Sliced carrots or parsnips can add sweetness and color. Finely diced shallots or red onion roasted alongside the sprouts will soften and caramelize, adding a sweet and aromatic layer.
• Sweeteners: If you desire an extra touch of sweetness or a different flavor profile for the glaze, you have several options. Instead of honey, try a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a rich, autumnal flavor, or a sprinkle of brown sugar that caramelizes beautifully during roasting.
• Sauces/Glazes: Enhance the flavor further with additional sauces or glazes. A splash more of balsamic vinegar can intensify the tang. For a bolder, fruitier note, a spoonful of leftover cranberry sauce (stirred in at the end) can add moisture and a deeper cranberry flavor. A squeeze of fresh orange juice can brighten the flavors.
• Spices & Herbs: Infuse more aromatic notes by experimenting with spices. During roasting, a sprinkle of dried oregano, thyme, or a classic Italian seasoning blend can add a Mediterranean twist. For a unique, Middle Eastern-inspired flavor, try za’atar. If you enjoy a smoky warmth, smoked paprika is an excellent choice. For those who appreciate a bolder, spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can awaken the palate. You could also explore curry spices like curry powder or garam masala for an exotic flair.
• Add Protein: Make this side dish heartier by adding cooked, crumbled bacon or pancetta during the last few minutes of roasting for extra savory depth and crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Brussels Sprouts

What Should I Pair With These Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese?

These flavorful Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic accompaniment to a wide range of main courses. Their savory, sweet, and tangy profile means they can stand up to rich meats and complement lighter dishes equally well. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Holiday Feasts: Given their festive appeal, these Brussels sprouts are a natural fit for holiday spreads. They pair beautifully with succulent poultry dishes like this Herb Butter Roasted Turkey, a flavorful Garlic Herb Butter Roast Chicken, a convenient Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken, or a tender Slow Cooker Mediterranean Whole Chicken.
• Hearty Beef Dishes: The robust flavors of beef are a spectacular match for these sprouts. I particularly love them alongside a perfectly seared Grilled Ribeye Steak, a zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Grilled Ribeye, or the comforting richness of Slow Cooker Italian Short Ribs. The Brussels sprouts cut through the richness of the beef beautifully.
• Delicate Seafood: For a lighter but equally satisfying meal, these Brussels sprouts complement various seafood dishes. Try them with a flaky Black Sea Bass Recipe, quick and easy Air Fryer Cod, or a decadent Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce. The subtle sweetness of the cranberries can highlight the natural sweetness of many fish.
• Vegetarian Mains: These sprouts can also elevate vegetarian meals. Serve them alongside a hearty lentil loaf, a robust mushroom risotto, or a simple quinoa pilaf for a balanced and flavorful plant-forward dinner.

More Brussels Sprouts Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’ve become a newfound enthusiast for Brussels sprouts after trying this recipe, there’s a whole world of possibilities to explore! Here are a few more of my favorite Brussels sprout-centric dishes:

• Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: A fresh, crunchy, and lighter take, perfect for when you want a raw sprout experience.
• Lemon Brussels Sprout Slaw: Zesty and vibrant, this slaw offers a tangy twist, great as a BBQ side or light lunch.
• Brussels Sprout Apple Goat Cheese Salad: A delightful blend of sweet apples, creamy goat cheese, and earthy sprouts, ideal for autumn.
• Winter Slaw Salad: While not exclusively Brussels sprouts, this hearty slaw often features them alongside other root vegetables, making it a robust seasonal option.
• Roasted Vegetable Goat Cheese Flatbread: Incorporate roasted Brussels sprouts onto a delicious flatbread with goat cheese for a unique appetizer or light meal.