Tap here to get 5 Secrets to Stress Free Dinners

How to Cut Brussel Sprouts

|

posted: 10/03/24

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy
|
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

Knowing how to cut Brussel sprouts properly can make all the difference in their texture and flavor. You’ll be cooking with Brussels sprouts all the time with these simple steps and tips.

close up of Brussel sprouts cut in half

Brussels sprouts can be enjoyed so many different ways and make such a delicious side dish. While they may sound intimidating if you’ve never cooked with them before, they are a simple and universal vegetable that can be enjoyed even by picky eaters. From roasted to shredded to paired with bacon, Brussels sprouts have made such a comeback that I am here for!

Don’t miss my list of delicious Brussels sprouts recipes at the bottom of the post!

Choosing Brussels Sprouts

The first step in creating a delicious recipe with Brussels sprouts is picking out good ones from the start. When choosing brussels sprouts, here are a few things to look for:

  • Choose sprouts that are bright green in color, avoiding yellowing or browning on the leaves.
  • Try to pick sprouts that are similar in size for even cooking.
  • Look for tightly packed leaves and avoid sprouts with too many loose, wilted, or damaged leaves.
  • Avoid any sprouts that are mushy or soft.

How to Cut Brussel Sprouts

Step One: Wash the Brussels Sprouts

Remove any dirt or debris. If you bought a stalk of Brussels sprouts instead of a bag, you will want to just cut them off the stalk before proceeding.

overhead of a white colander of washed raw brussel sprouts

Step Two: Remove any Rough Leaves

Pull off any brown or wilted outer leaves. You may also find tough leaves that need to be removed.

close up of raw brussel sprouts on a wooden cutting board

Step Three: Cut the stem off

Use a sharp knife to remove about 1/4 inch—just enough to get rid of the dry, tough part.

brussel sprouts with stems cut off sitting on a wooden cutting board with a chef's knife sitting beside

Step Four: Cut them up if needed

Slice them into halves or fourths depending on how big the sprouts are and your preference for the recipe. They are now ready for roasting, sautéing, or shredding!

Storing Prepared Brussel Sprouts

If you want to save some time by preparing these the day before, store the cut Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I wouldn’t cut them more than two days in advance.

Shredding Brussel Sprouts

Once you have prepped your Brussel sprouts, you can shred them. Shredding them is a great way to use them in salads. Or use the shreds to make a Brussels sprout slaw. A great way to do that is with a food processor. You can also use a mandoline.

Brussels Sprouts Recipes

Once you have your Brussels sprouts washed and cut, they can be used in tons of different recipes. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy them.

If you use this guide to learn how to cut Brussel sprouts or make any of my recipes, I’d love to hear what you think!

close up of Brussel sprouts cut in half
Print Recipe
No ratings yet

How to Cut Brussel Sprouts

Knowing how to cut Brussel sprouts properly can make all the difference in their texture and flavor. You'll be cooking with Brussels sprouts all the time with these simple steps and tips.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: How To
Cuisine: American
Author: Lisa Longley

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts or as many as needed

Instructions

  • Wash the Brussels sprouts to remove any dirt and debris.
  • Remove any wilted, brown, or yellowing leaves.
  • Trim the stems. Just enough to get rid of the dry, tough part.
  • Cut the Brussels sprouts in half if they are large.

Hi! I'm Lisa Longley, and I am committed to giving you simple dinner ideas and recipes that are easy to make; recipes that will fill your home with joy. I am the owner and author of SimpleJoy.com and I'm so glad that you are here.

Reader Interactions

LEAVE A COMMENT

Have a question? Use the form below to submit your question or comment. I love hearing from you & seeing what you made!

Rate This Recipe:




SUPER-SIMPLEFAMILY FAVORITES
Broccoli Pasta"Omg! I didn’t think anything so simple could be so good!"
overhead of skillet of Cajun Shrimp Pasta ingredients on a cooling rack with toasted bread sitting beside
Cajun Shrimp Pasta"My family absolutely loved this recipe. Even my finicky eaters."
overhead photo of a gray skillet filled with beef and broccoli recipe, garnished with sliced green onions
Beef and Broccoli Recipe"I have made this a couple or more times. It’s easy & quick to prepare. I like this for a quick meal. It will be my go to recipe."

SUBSCRIBE & RECEIVE

5 Secrets to Stress Free Dinners

SUBSCRIBE & RECEIVE

MY TOP 10 EASY DINNER EBOOK!

5 Secrets to Stress Free Dinners

SUBSCRIBE & RECEIVE

MY TOP 10 EASY DINNER EBOOK!