Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Prepare Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so make sure they’re thoroughly dry. Trim off the stem ends (about ¼ inch), and remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves. Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise from top to bottom. If you have any very large sprouts (over 2 inches), cut them into quarters so all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 3: Season Brussels Sprouts
Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, making sure to use all of it. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss everything together thoroughly until every Brussels sprout is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. Don’t be shy with the oil – properly coated Brussels sprouts roast better and develop superior texture.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, arranging them cut-side down. This is important! The flat cut side against the hot pan creates maximum caramelization and crispiness. Make sure the Brussels sprouts aren’t crowded – they should have space between them. If they’re touching too much, use two baking sheets. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of roasting. If adding whole garlic cloves, nestle them among the Brussels sprouts.

Step 5: Roast
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. After about 12-15 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and use a spatula to flip the Brussels sprouts, checking the bottoms first – they should be deep golden brown and caramelized. If they’re not browned yet, return to the oven without flipping and check again in 3-5 minutes. Once properly caramelized on one side, flip them over and return to the oven.

Step 6: Check for Doneness
The Brussels sprouts are done when they’re tender when pierced with a fork, golden brown with some charred edges, and the outer leaves are crispy. Total cooking time is usually 20-25 minutes, but this varies based on size and your oven. The outer leaves should look almost burnt – this is perfect! They’ll be crispy and delicious.

Step 7: Season and Serve
Remove from the oven and taste one Brussels sprout. If needed, add more salt and pepper while they’re hot. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the hot Brussels sprouts immediately so it melts slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately for maximum crispiness.