Best Quick Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts

Discovering the Instant Pot

My Favorite is Quick Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts and I remember the first time I tried making Brussels sprouts in my Instant Pot. I had just bought the gadget and was eager to explore its magic. It seemed like a lot of work to cook Brussels sprouts, but I needed a quick and easy side dish for dinner. I was skeptical at first—could the Instant Pot really make these little green vegetables taste delicious and tender in just minutes? My curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to give it a shot.

The Simple Prep

Preparing the Brussels sprouts was a breeze. I trimmed the ends and sliced them in half, which took only a few minutes. With everything ready, I tossed them into the Instant Pot and added a cup of water. I set the lid and adjusted the pressure release handle to “Sealing.” The hardest part was waiting for the pot to build up pressure. During those few minutes, I could almost imagine the aroma of butter and chives filling my kitchen.

The Big Reveal

When the timer dinged, I was excited to see how they turned out. I carefully moved the pressure release handle to “Venting” and let the steam escape. Once I opened the lid, the Brussels sprouts looked perfect—bright green and tender. I stirred in the butter, chives, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese, and the dish transformed into something even better than I’d hoped. The butter melted into the sprouts, and the chives and cheese added a delicious finish.

A New Favorite

That night, I served the Brussels sprouts alongside some roasted chicken, and they were a hit. The ease of making them and the rich, buttery flavor quickly made this dish a staple in my kitchen. I found myself making it often, experimenting with different tweaks like a squeeze of lemon or adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds. The Instant Pot had truly changed the way I approached cooking vegetables, making it a joyful experience instead of a chore.

Chef’s Notes-Quick Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts

• For softer Brussels sprouts, you can extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a bit of crunch, stick to the 2-minute cook time.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• For a lighter version, substitute the salted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter. This will slightly alter the flavor but still maintain a delicious result.
• These Brussels sprouts make a great side for many dishes. They pair well with roasted meats, fish, or even a hearty vegetarian main course.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to regain moisture.

FAQ-Quick Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may release more water, so you might need to adjust the cooking time and drain them thoroughly after cooking.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative or any other hard cheese you prefer, such as Asiago or Pecorino.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the salted butter with olive oil or vegan butter and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli florets or green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.

How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done cooking?

The Brussels sprouts should be tender but still slightly crisp. If they are too soft for your liking, you can cook them for a shorter time next time.