Recreate the addictive flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse brussel sprouts right in your own kitchen with this authentic copycat recipe! These crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe favorites have become legendary for their perfect combination of caramelized edges, tender centers, and that signature sweet and spicy glaze.
If you’ve been wondering how to make longhorn brussels sprouts at home, you’re in the right place. This copycat longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe captures every detail of the restaurant’s beloved side dish, from the blanching technique that ensures perfect texture to the irresistible sauce featuring honey, maple syrup, and smoky chipotle.
Get ready to master these longhorn steakhouse crispy brussel sprouts that disappear faster than any vegetable side dish has a right to!
What are Longhorn Steakhouse Brussel Sprouts and How Do They Taste?
Longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts are a signature appetizer featuring crispy roasted Brussels sprouts coated in a distinctive sweet and spicy sauce that’s become a cult favorite among steakhouse enthusiasts. This longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy dish combines perfectly caramelized, crispy-edged vegetables with a glaze made from honey, maple syrup, butter, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper seasoning.
The taste is a complex balance of smoky, sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with a satisfying textural contrast. The roasted brussels sprouts longhorn style feature ultra-crispy outer leaves that shatter like chips, tender interiors, and a glossy coating that’s simultaneously sticky-sweet from the honey and maple while delivering a pleasant heat from chili and red pepper flakes.
The longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce brings smokiness from paprika and chipotle, creating an unforgettable flavor profile that converts even Brussels sprouts skeptics into devoted fans.
Longhorn Steakhouse Brussel Sprouts Recipe Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1–1.5 lbs (450–680g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse sea salt (½–1 teaspoon, to taste)
For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chipotle pepper seasoning (ground chipotle)
Other:
- Water for blanching
- Ice for ice bath
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large pot for boiling
- Large bowl for ice bath
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
- Colander or strainer
- Small mixing bowl for sauce
- Whisk or fork
- Tongs or large spoon for tossing
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes (4 minutes blanching + 20 minutes roasting)
Total Time: 39 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Brussel Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming the tough stem ends off each Brussels sprout using a sharp knife. Remove any damaged, discolored, or wilted outer leaves. Important: Save all the loose leaves that fall off during trimming-these become the crispiest, most flavorful parts of your longhorn brussel sprouts recipe! For large Brussels sprouts, cut them into quarters; for medium-sized ones, cut them in half. Aim for uniformly bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout your copycat longhorn brussel sprouts.
Step 2: Boil Water and Preheat Oven
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon). Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. While the water heats, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper-this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after roasting your longhorn steakhouse crispy brussel sprouts.
Step 3: Blanch the Brussels Sprouts
Once the water reaches a full boil, carefully add all the trimmed and cut Brussels sprouts, including those precious loose leaves. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a hard, rolling boil. Blanch the sprouts for exactly 4 minutes-this par-cooks them, making the interiors tender while setting them up for maximum crispiness during roasting. This blanching step is essential for achieving that authentic roasted brussels sprouts longhorn style texture.
Step 4: Cool in Ice Bath
Immediately drain the blanched Brussels sprouts in a colander. Quickly transfer them to a large bowl filled with ice water. This ice bath stops the cooking process instantly, preserving the bright green color and preventing the sprouts from becoming mushy. Let them sit in the ice bath for 3-4 minutes until completely cooled. This technique is a secret to perfect longhorn brussel sprouts.
Step 5: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Drain the cooled Brussels sprouts thoroughly from the ice bath and pat them dry with paper towels if they’re very wet. Spread them in a single layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded-this ensures proper air circulation for maximum crispiness. Drizzle generously with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Toss everything together with your hands or tongs to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated 400°F oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning. The sprouts are ready when the edges are deeply golden and crispy, with the loose leaves becoming delicately crunchy like chips.
Step 6: Make the Sauce (While Sprouts Roast)
While your Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the signature longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Add ½–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (start with less if you prefer mild heat), ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon ground chipotle pepper seasoning. Whisk everything together vigorously until the sauce is smooth and well combined. The sauce will thicken slightly as it sits. Taste carefully (it’s potent!) and adjust the heat level to your preference. This longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy sauce is what makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven when they’re perfectly crispy with golden-brown edges and caramelized leaves. Immediately transfer them to a large serving bowl. Drizzle the sweet and spicy sauce over the hot sprouts, then toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly, making sure to scrape from the bottom to distribute the sauce completely. The heat from the sprouts will help the sauce coat beautifully.
Plate your copycat longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe immediately while hot, and watch them disappear! The combination of smokiness from chipotle and paprika, sweetness from honey and maple, and the spicy kick from chili and red pepper flakes creates an irresistible flavor that rivals the restaurant original.
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving
1. Steakhouse Dinner Pairing
Serve your longhorn brussel sprouts alongside a perfectly grilled ribeye or filet mignon, garlic mashed potatoes, and sautéed mushrooms. This classic steakhouse combination allows the sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts to complement the rich, savory flavors of the beef while providing a lighter, vegetable element to balance the meal.
2. Add Bacon for Extra Indulgence
Elevate your crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe by adding crispy bacon pieces. Cook 4-5 strips of bacon until crispy, chop them into small bits, and toss them with the sauced Brussels sprouts just before serving. The smoky, salty bacon amplifies the savory elements and adds another layer of texture that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy glaze.
3. Holiday Side Dish
Transform your longhorn steakhouse crispy brussel sprouts into a show-stopping holiday side by garnishing with toasted pecans or candied walnuts and dried cranberries. The nuts add crunch and earthiness, while the cranberries contribute tartness that balances the sweet sauce. This presentation makes them perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner alongside turkey or ham.
4. Asian Fusion Twist
For an Asian-inspired variation, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to your longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce. Top the finished dish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. Serve with grilled teriyaki chicken or salmon for a fusion meal that combines the best of steakhouse and Asian cuisine.
5. Vegetarian Main Course
Turn these roasted brussels sprouts longhorn style into a satisfying vegetarian main dish by serving them over quinoa or wild rice with roasted chickpeas for added protein. Drizzle with extra sauce and top with crumbled feta cheese and pomegranate seeds for a colorful, nutritious bowl that’s both filling and flavorful.
6. Game Day Appetizer
Serve your copycat longhorn brussel sprouts as an appetizer for parties and game day gatherings. Provide toothpicks for easy grabbing and offer ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. The crispy, saucy sprouts make an unexpectedly sophisticated alternative to traditional wings and nachos.
7. Meal Prep Bowl Component
Incorporate these longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy into weekly meal prep by pairing them with grilled chicken, brown rice, and roasted sweet potatoes. Store the components separately and reheat the Brussels sprouts in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. The bold flavors hold up well over several days, making healthy eating exciting throughout the week.
Essential Tips for Perfect Longhorn Brussel Sprouts
1. Don’t Skip the Blanching Step
While it might be tempting to skip straight to roasting, blanching is crucial for achieving the perfect longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts texture. This brief boil par-cooks the interiors, ensuring they’re tender while the high-heat roasting creates those signature crispy edges. Without blanching, you risk either undercooked, tough centers or overcooked, mushy sprouts. The ice bath immediately after blanching stops the cooking process and locks in the vibrant green color.
2. Save Every Loose Leaf
Those loose outer leaves that fall off during trimming are absolute gold for your crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe. When roasted, they become incredibly crispy-almost like vegetable chips-and develop the deepest caramelization and most concentrated flavor. Don’t discard them; instead, scatter them across the baking sheet with the halved or quartered sprouts for maximum texture variety in every bite.
3. Achieve Maximum Crispiness
For the crispiest longhorn steakhouse crispy brussel sprouts recipe, ensure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry after the ice bath. Excess moisture creates steam during roasting, which prevents browning and crisping. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Additionally, don’t overcrowd your baking sheet-overcrowded sprouts steam rather than roast. Use two baking sheets if necessary to give each sprout enough space.
4. Adjust the Heat Level
The beauty of making this copycat longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe at home is controlling the spice level. Start conservative with ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes in the sauce, then taste and add more if desired. Remember that the heat intensifies slightly as it sits, and you can always add more spice but can’t take it away. For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes while keeping the chili powder and chipotle for smoky flavor without intense heat.
5. Quality Ingredients Matter
Use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for the longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce-the authentic maple flavor makes a noticeable difference. Similarly, invest in good quality smoked paprika and chipotle pepper seasoning. Ground chipotle provides smoky heat without the moisture issues of canned chipotle peppers in adobo, giving you better control over the sauce consistency.
6. Timing is Everything
Toss the Brussels sprouts with the sauce immediately after removing them from the oven while they’re still piping hot. The heat helps the sauce coat more evenly and allows the butter to melt completely, creating that glossy, restaurant-quality finish. If you wait until they cool, the sauce won’t adhere as well, and you’ll lose that just-made freshness that makes longhorn brussel sprouts so irresistible.
7. Size Matters for Even Cooking
When preparing your Brussels sprouts, aim for uniform piece sizes. Quarter the large ones and halve the smaller ones so they cook at the same rate. Inconsistent sizing results in some pieces being perfectly done while others are either undercooked or overdone. Taking the extra minute to cut them uniformly ensures every bite of your roasted brussels sprouts longhorn style has the perfect tender-crispy texture.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover longhorn brussel sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To restore crispiness, reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes or use an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy and diminishes that signature crispy texture.
Longhorn Steakhouse Brussel Sprouts Recipe
Recreate the addictive flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse brussel sprouts right in your own kitchen with this authentic copycat recipe! These crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe favorites have become legendary for their perfect combination of caramelized edges, tender centers, and that signature sweet and spicy glaze.
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 lbs (450–680g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse sea salt (½–1 teaspoon, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chipotle pepper seasoning (ground chipotle)
- Water for blanching
- Ice for ice bath
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming the tough stem ends off each Brussels sprout using a sharp knife. Remove any damaged, discolored, or wilted outer leaves. Important: Save all the loose leaves that fall off during trimming-these become the crispiest, most flavorful parts of your longhorn brussel sprouts recipe! For large Brussels sprouts, cut them into quarters; for medium-sized ones, cut them in half. Aim for uniformly bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout your copycat longhorn brussel sprouts.
Step 2: Boil Water and Preheat Oven
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon). Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. While the water heats, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper-this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after roasting your longhorn steakhouse crispy brussel sprouts.
Step 3: Blanch the Brussels Sprouts
Once the water reaches a full boil, carefully add all the trimmed and cut Brussels sprouts, including those precious loose leaves. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a hard, rolling boil. Blanch the sprouts for exactly 4 minutes-this par-cooks them, making the interiors tender while setting them up for maximum crispiness during roasting. This blanching step is essential for achieving that authentic roasted brussels sprouts longhorn style texture.
Step 4: Cool in Ice Bath
Immediately drain the blanched Brussels sprouts in a colander. Quickly transfer them to a large bowl filled with ice water. This ice bath stops the cooking process instantly, preserving the bright green color and preventing the sprouts from becoming mushy. Let them sit in the ice bath for 3-4 minutes until completely cooled. This technique is a secret to perfect longhorn brussel sprouts.
Step 5: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Drain the cooled Brussels sprouts thoroughly from the ice bath and pat them dry with paper towels if they’re very wet. Spread them in a single layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded-this ensures proper air circulation for maximum crispiness. Drizzle generously with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Toss everything together with your hands or tongs to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated 400°F oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning. The sprouts are ready when the edges are deeply golden and crispy, with the loose leaves becoming delicately crunchy like chips.
Step 6: Make the Sauce (While Sprouts Roast)
While your Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the signature longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Add ½–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (start with less if you prefer mild heat), ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon ground chipotle pepper seasoning. Whisk everything together vigorously until the sauce is smooth and well combined. The sauce will thicken slightly as it sits. Taste carefully (it’s potent!) and adjust the heat level to your preference. This longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy sauce is what makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven when they’re perfectly crispy with golden-brown edges and caramelized leaves. Immediately transfer them to a large serving bowl. Drizzle the sweet and spicy sauce over the hot sprouts, then toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly, making sure to scrape from the bottom to distribute the sauce completely. The heat from the sprouts will help the sauce coat beautifully. Plate your copycat longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe immediately while hot, and watch them disappear! The combination of smokiness from chipotle and paprika, sweetness from honey and maple, and the spicy kick from chili and red pepper flakes creates an irresistible flavor that rivals the restaurant original.
Notes
Store leftover longhorn brussel sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To restore crispiness, reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes or use an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy and diminishes that signature crispy texture.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 310
Common Queries and FAQs
Q: Can I skip the blanching step and just roast the Brussels sprouts?
A: While you can roast Brussels sprouts without blanching, you won’t achieve the authentic longhorn steakhouse brussel spruts texture. Blanching par-cooks the interiors so they become perfectly tender while the high-heat roasting creates crispy exteriors. Without blanching, you’d need to roast much longer, risking burnt outsides with raw centers or overly soft sprouts without that signature crispy-tender contrast.
Q: What’s the best substitute for chipotle pepper seasoning?
A: If you can’t find ground chipotle pepper seasoning for your longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce, you can use 1 teaspoon of minced canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, though this adds moisture to the sauce. Alternatively, use an extra ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika plus a pinch of cayenne pepper to maintain the smoky heat, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Q: Can I make these Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?
A: Yes! After blanching and drying, toss the Brussels sprouts with oil and salt, then air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method creates exceptionally crispy crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe results. Toss with the sauce immediately after air frying.
Q: How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted?
A: Perfectly roasted longhorn brussel sprouts have deep golden-brown edges with some charred bits on the outer leaves, tender centers that yield easily to a fork, and loose leaves that are crispy like chips. The overall color should be a mix of bright green and caramelized brown, with a slightly shriveled appearance from moisture loss during roasting.
Q: Can I prepare components of this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can blanch and ice-bath the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store them dried in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it refrigerated. When ready to serve, bring the sauce to room temperature, roast the prepared sprouts, and toss together.
Q: Why are my Brussels sprouts bitter?
A: Brussels sprouts can taste bitter if they’re old or overcooked. Choose fresh, firm sprouts with tight, bright green leaves. The blanching process actually helps reduce bitterness by breaking down certain compounds. Additionally, the sweet and spicy sauce in this longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy recipe masks any residual bitterness with its bold flavors.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
A: Fresh Brussels sprouts are strongly recommended for achieving the authentic copycat longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe texture. Frozen Brussels sprouts contain more moisture and won’t crisp up as well. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely, squeeze out excess moisture, and skip the blanching step since they’re already partially cooked.
Q: How spicy are these Brussels sprouts?
A: The longhorn brussel sprouts have a moderate heat level that most people find pleasantly spicy without being overwhelming. The sweetness from honey and maple syrup balances the heat from red pepper flakes, chili powder, and chipotle. The spice builds gradually rather than hitting immediately, and you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the red pepper flakes.
Q: What other vegetables can I prepare using this method?
A: This blanch-and-roast technique with the longhorn steakhouse brussels sprouts sauce works beautifully with cauliflower florets, broccoli, green beans, and even halved baby potatoes. Adjust blanching times based on the vegetable’s density-cauliflower and broccoli need 3-4 minutes, while green beans only need 2 minutes.
This longhorn steakhouse brussel sprouts recipe brings the beloved restaurant side dish straight to your home kitchen with all the flavor and none of the wait time. By mastering the blanching technique and that signature sweet and spicy sauce, you can create crispy brussels sprouts steakhouse recipe magic that rivals the original.
Whether you’re serving these copycat longhorn brussel sprouts as an appetizer, side dish, or even a vegetarian main course, they’re guaranteed to impress everyone at your table. The combination of ultra-crispy edges, tender centers, and that irresistible longhorn brussel sprouts sweet and spicy glaze makes them absolutely addictive. Now that you know how to make longhorn brussels sprouts at home, you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again!
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