“How to Cook Frozen Brussels Sprouts – Easy Methods & Recipes (2025)”

How to Cook Frozen Brussels Sprouts – Easy Methods & Recipes (2025)

Brussels sprouts have made a major comeback—and for good reason! They’re packed with nutrients, low in carbs, and have a delicious nutty flavor when cooked right. But what if you only have frozen Brussels sprouts?

Don’t worry—frozen Brussels sprouts can be just as delicious as fresh ones when cooked properly. In this guide, we’ll show you how to cook frozen Brussels sprouts using roasting, sautéing, air frying, and steaming, along with flavor tips and quick recipes.

Are Frozen Brussels Sprouts as Good as Fresh?

Yes! Frozen Brussels sprouts are:

• Flash-frozen at peak freshness, preserving nutrients
• Affordable and available year-round
• Pre-washed and trimmed (less prep!)

With the right method, you can get crispy, caramelized, or tender Brussels sprouts right from the freezer—no thawing required.

Should You Thaw Frozen Brussels Sprouts First?

Usually, no. Most cooking methods work best from frozen, especially roasting, air frying, or sautéing. Steaming or boiling is the only time thawing might help for even cooking, but it’s not necessary.

4 Easy Ways to Cook Frozen Brussels Sprouts

Let’s dive into the most popular cooking methods:

🍽️ 1. Roasted Frozen Brussels Sprouts (Best for Crispiness)

Oven-roasting brings out a rich, nutty flavor and crispy texture—even from frozen!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen Brussels sprouts
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, parmesan, balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
2. Spread frozen Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet (don’t thaw!)
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper
4. Roast for 25–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and crispy
5. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan or a balsamic drizzle (optional)

💡 Pro tip: Cut larger sprouts in half before roasting for better crispiness (you can do this halfway through once they soften).

🍳 2. Sautéed Frozen Brussels Sprouts (Quick & Flavorful)

A stovetop method that’s fast and adds lots of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen sprouts
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2–3 garlic cloves (minced)
• Salt, pepper, lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
2. Add frozen Brussels sprouts and cover for 5–7 minutes to steam
3. Remove lid, stir, and continue cooking until browned (about 5 more minutes)
4. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 more minutes
5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon

🧄 Want extra flavor? Add bacon, onions, or red pepper flakes.

🍟 3. Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts (Crispy & Fast)

Air frying is perfect for crispy Brussels sprouts in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen Brussels sprouts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Seasoning of choice (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C)
2. Toss frozen sprouts with oil and seasoning in a bowl
3. Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking basket halfway
4. Cook until browned and crispy on the edges

🔥 Try tossing in buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or soy glaze for a twist.

🥣 4. Steamed or Boiled Frozen Brussels Sprouts (Soft & Simple)

Great if you’re making mashed Brussels or want a super soft texture.

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of water to boil or set up a steamer basket
2. Add frozen Brussels sprouts
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fork-tender
4. Drain and season with butter, salt, and pepper

🧈 Optional: Mash with butter and garlic for a quick veggie mash.

🍽️ Bonus: Quick Recipe – Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen Brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• Salt and black pepper

Instructions:

1. Roast frozen sprouts at 425°F for 30 minutes
2. Toss with garlic and parmesan, roast for 5 more minutes
3. Serve warm—crispy, cheesy, and irresistible!

🧠 Nutrition & Benefits

Brussels sprouts are a nutrient powerhouse, rich in:

• Fiber
• Vitamin C & K
• Antioxidants
• Low-calorie, keto-friendly

Frozen versions retain most of these nutrients thanks to flash-freezing technology.

🧾 Final Thoughts

Don’t let frozen Brussels sprouts sit in your freezer unused! With just a few pantry ingredients and the right cooking method—roasting, sautéing, air frying, or steaming—you can turn them into a delicious side dish any day of the week.

Next time you’re meal prepping or need a quick veggie fix, skip the thawing and go straight from freezer to flavor!

❓FAQ

Can you grill frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but steam or microwave them briefly first so they cook evenly on the grill.

How do you make frozen Brussels sprouts not soggy?

Roast or air fry them at a high temperature to evaporate moisture and crisp the edges.

Are frozen Brussels sprouts already cooked?

No, they’re blanched, not fully cooked. You’ll still need to cook them thoroughly.