Substitute for Brussels Sprouts: 4 Roasted Veggie Swaps
The best substitute for brussels sprouts is Broccoli at a 1:1 (florets) ratio. It works best for roasting, sauteing, side dishes. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Broccoli
1:1 (florets)
Similar cruciferous flavor profile. Cut into small florets. Roasts beautifully with olive oil and develops similar caramelized edges.
What are the other substitutes for brussels sprouts?
Cabbage (wedges)
1:1 by weight
Cut into thick wedges and roast. Same family with similar flavor. Caramelizes beautifully at high heat.
Broccoli Rabe
1:1
Slightly more bitter with small florets and leafy stems. Blanch briefly before sauteing to mellow bitterness.
Cauliflower (florets)
1:1
Milder and sweeter. Roasts well and develops nutty, caramelized flavors similar to Brussels sprouts at high heat.
What should you know before substituting brussels sprouts?
Cut Brussels sprouts in half and roast cut-side down on a hot pan at 425F for the best caramelization. Crowding the pan causes steaming instead of roasting. A touch of balsamic vinegar after roasting enhances their sweetness.
How do you substitute brussels sprouts in a recipe?
Miniature cabbage-like cruciferous vegetables with a nutty, slightly bitter flavor when roasted. Their small size makes them ideal for roasting, shredding into slaws, or halving for pan-frying until caramelized.
The best substitute for brussels sprouts depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Broccoli (1:1 (florets)), which works well for roasting, sauteing, side dishes.
If you need a different option, Cabbage (wedges) (1:1 by weight) is another reliable choice. Cut into thick wedges and roast. Same family with similar flavor. Caramelizes beautifully at high heat.
When substituting brussels sprouts, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetable is similar to Brussels sprouts?
Broccoli florets are the most similar in flavor and roasting behavior at a 1:1 ratio. Cabbage wedges cut thick and roasted at high heat also replicate the caramelized, nutty flavors.
Can I use cauliflower instead of Brussels sprouts?
Yes, at a 1:1 ratio. Cauliflower is milder and sweeter but develops similar nutty, caramelized edges when roasted at high heat. Cut into small florets for the closest texture match.