Brussel sprout breakfast dishes are rapidly gaining popularity for their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a savory Brussel sprout breakfast hash or a baked option to prepare ahead, this guide covers everything you need. Using Brussels sprouts as a star ingredient in your breakfast meals brings exciting textures and flavors that transform a simple morning routine into a gourmet experience.
Why Brussels Sprouts Are Perfect for Breakfast
Using Brussels sprouts for breakfast offers endless possibilities. Whether roasted, sautéed, or baked, these green gems can turn any meal into a gourmet delight. In recent years, more and more people have been including Brussel sprout breakfast recipes in their repertoire, thanks to their ease of preparation and ability to pair well with classic breakfast staples like eggs and bacon.
If you’re new to using Brussels sprouts for breakfast, you can start by incorporating them into simple recipes like a breakfast hash or sautéing them with your favorite breakfast meats.
Classic Brussels Sprouts and Eggs Breakfast Hash
One of the most beloved Brussel sprout breakfast dishes is the classic hash. This dish combines crispy Brussels sprouts, eggs, and bacon for a meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor. The beauty of a Brussel sprout breakfast hash is its adaptability—use whatever you have on hand and enjoy a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts, halved or quartered
- Eggs (fried or scrambled)
- Bacon, chopped
- Potatoes, cubed
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the potatoes in the bacon fat until golden and tender.
- Add the Brussels sprouts and garlic, cooking until the sprouts are browned.
- Fry or scramble the eggs in a separate pan, and then combine everything.
- Serve the hash with bacon crumbled on top, and enjoy!
This recipe is adaptable, so feel free to swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor. It’s also easy to scale, so you can make a big batch to feed the whole family or adjust for individual servings.
Sweet and Savory Brussels Sprouts Breakfast Bake
If you’re looking for a more indulgent Brussel sprout breakfast option, try a savory bake. This recipe combines roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, eggs, and cheese for a crispy yet rich meal that’s perfect for brunch or even meal prep.
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Eggs
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet until they are browned and crispy (about 20 minutes).
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and shredded cheese.
- Layer the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a baking dish, then pour the egg mixture on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
This Brussels sprouts breakfast bake can be customized to your taste by adding ingredients like mushrooms, onions, or even sweet potatoes. You can also make it ahead and reheat it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potato Hash
Another twist on the classic hash is the Brussels sprouts and sweet potato hash. This dish introduces a slight sweetness to complement the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, and the combination is particularly satisfying for a morning meal.
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts, sliced thinly
- Sweet potatoes, cubed
- Red onion, diced
- Bacon or sausage, cooked and crumbled
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Eggs
How to Make It:
- Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a skillet, sauté the Brussels sprouts and red onions in olive oil until soft and browned.
- Combine the roasted sweet potatoes with the Brussels sprouts mixture and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes.
- Top the hash with crumbled bacon or sausage and a fried egg for extra protein.
This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it a great option for busy mornings.
Low-Carb Brussels Sprouts Breakfast Ideas
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, a Brussel sprout breakfast can fit seamlessly into your meal plans. Brussels sprouts are naturally low in carbs and pair beautifully with other low-carb ingredients like eggs and bacon.
Here are a few low-carb breakfast ideas featuring Brussels sprouts:
Sautéed Brussels Sprouts and Eggs:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté shredded Brussels sprouts until crispy.
- Fry eggs in the same skillet and serve them on top of the sprouts for a simple, nutrient-packed meal.
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Scramble:
- Cook bacon until crispy and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté Brussels sprouts until browned and then scramble eggs directly into the mixture.
- Add the bacon back into the scramble and serve hot.
Brussels Sprouts Omelette:
- Whisk eggs and pour into a heated skillet.
- Add roasted Brussels sprouts, cheese, and bacon into the omelette before folding.
These low-carb recipes are quick, simple, and perfect for anyone looking to cut down on carbohydrates without sacrificing flavor.
How to Prepare Brussels Sprouts for Breakfast
The way you prepare Brussels sprouts can significantly impact their flavor and texture, especially for breakfast. There are several cooking methods you can use depending on the dish you’re making.
1. Roasting Brussels Sprouts:
Roasting is one of the most popular ways to prepare Brussels sprouts. It enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a crispy exterior.
- To roast, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. Sautéing Brussels Sprouts:
Sautéing is a quicker method and works well for breakfast dishes that require soft, evenly browned Brussels sprouts.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, add sliced Brussels sprouts, and cook until golden brown and tender. You can also add garlic or onions for extra flavor.
3. Using Raw Brussels Sprouts:
For a lighter, fresher option, you can use raw, shaved Brussels sprouts in breakfast salads or as a topping for avocado toast.
- Simply shave the sprouts thinly with a mandoline or knife and toss them with lemon juice, olive oil, and salt for a refreshing crunch.
Best Ingredients to Pair with Brussels Sprouts
To make the most of Brussels sprouts in your breakfast dishes, consider pairing them with complementary ingredients that enhance their flavor.
1. Eggs and Meats:
- Eggs: Whether scrambled, fried, or poached, eggs pair beautifully with Brussels sprouts. Their soft texture and mild flavor balance out the crunchy, savory sprouts.
- Bacon or Sausage: The salty, smoky flavor of bacon or sausage enhances the earthiness of Brussels sprouts. Fry or bake the bacon and crumble it into your hash or bake.
2. Sweet Ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes adds a wonderful contrast to the savory sprouts.
- Fruits: Incorporate fruits like pears or apples into your Brussels sprout breakfast for a sweet and savory twist.
3. Herbs and Spices:
- Garlic and Onion: Classic pairings that add depth to any Brussels sprout dish.
- Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs work well with roasted or sautéed sprouts, adding a fragrant touch to your meal.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts adds a tangy sweetness that balances out their earthiness.
FAQs
Are Brussels sprouts good for breakfast?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are a great ingredient for breakfast. Their versatility and flavor make them ideal for hashes, bakes, and sautéed dishes that pair well with traditional breakfast items like eggs and bacon.
Can you eat Brussels sprouts raw for breakfast?
Yes, raw Brussels sprouts can be shaved thin and used in salads or as a topping for toast. They add a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor that complements a variety of other breakfast ingredients.
What’s the best way to cook Brussels sprouts for breakfast?
The best cooking method depends on the dish. Roasting brings out a natural sweetness, while sautéing results in tender sprouts with crispy edges. You can also shave them raw for lighter dishes.
Are Brussels sprouts keto-friendly for breakfast?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are low in carbs and can be used in keto-friendly breakfasts. Pair them with bacon, eggs, or avocado for a satisfying meal that fits within keto guidelines.
What other vegetables pair well with Brussels sprouts?
Vegetables like sweet potatoes, spinach, and bell peppers complement the flavor of Brussels sprouts. You can combine these vegetables in a hash, bake, or scramble for a delicious and balanced breakfast.
Conclusion
Incorporating Brussels sprouts into your breakfast routine is a great way to diversify your morning meals. From classic hashes to creative bakes and low-carb options, Brussels sprouts offer endless possibilities for delicious, easy-to-make dishes. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
So, the next time you’re planning breakfast, consider adding Brussels sprouts to the mix. With so many ways to prepare and enjoy them, they’re sure to become a staple in your morning meal rotation!