Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Brussels sprouts are everything you want in a side dish: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sweet-tart balsamic glaze that enhances their natural flavor. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and make a stunning addition to any table—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will be converted by this recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Balsamic vinegar
- Honey or maple syrup
- Garlic (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends and cut the sprouts in half. Place them on a baking sheet.
- Season and roast: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange cut-side down for maximum crispiness. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the glaze: While the sprouts roast, combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup) in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
- Combine and finish: Once the Brussels sprouts are golden and crisp, drizzle with the balsamic glaze and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately, warm and caramelized.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
- Add nuts: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Cheesy finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan just before serving.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Crispy bacon: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
- Cranberry addition: Add dried cranberries for a festive sweet-tart contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed and slightly crisped. You can also microwave, though the sprouts will be softer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh sprouts work best for roasting. Frozen ones can be used but won’t crisp up the same way.
How do I keep Brussels sprouts crispy?
Roast at a high temperature, cut them in half, and place them cut-side down. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
What’s the best vinegar to use?
Balsamic vinegar is essential for this glaze. Use a good-quality vinegar for the best flavor.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, balsamic glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, they’re high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Can I add garlic?
Absolutely. Minced garlic can be tossed with the sprouts before roasting or added to the glaze.
How do I prevent bitterness?
Roasting helps reduce bitterness by caramelizing the natural sugars in the sprouts.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, just use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan glaze.
What main dishes pair well with this?
These sprouts go great with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, salmon, or a hearty grain bowl.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding and ensure even roasting.
Conclusion
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and elegant side that brings out the best in this often-underappreciated vegetable. With crisp edges, a tender center, and a sweet-tangy glaze, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite. Serve them as part of a weeknight dinner or a festive spread—they’re sure to impress every time.
PrintBalsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are crispy, caramelized, and coated in a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. This easy roasted side dish is full of bold flavor and makes even Brussels sprouts skeptics fall in love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place halved Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange cut-side down for crispier results.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
- While roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup) in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until thickened. Add garlic if using and cook briefly.
- Remove sprouts from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately while warm and caramelized.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—use two if doubling the recipe.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
- For extra crunch, add toasted nuts or seeds before serving.
- Roast garlic alongside the sprouts for a mellow garlic flavor.
- The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg