Description: Discover how to make perfectly roasted glazed Brussels sprouts with a rich balsamic glaze for a delicious side dish that complements any meal. This easy glazed Brussels sprouts recipe blends sweet and savory flavors to upgrade your glazed Brussels sprouts recipes for every season.
There’s something magical about a Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe that balances sweet caramelization with a savory balsamic shine. Perfectly cooked Balsamic Brussels Sprouts turn golden and crisp at the edges, offering a mouthwatering mix of tang, sweetness, and depth. This Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts dish transforms humble sprouts into an irresistible side that complements everything from weeknight dinners to festive feasts. Fresh Brussels sprouts are key—their natural sweetness intensifies as they roast, soaking up the glossy glaze for a flavor-packed finish. Simple ingredients and easy prep make this a go-to recipe for any home cook looking to wow guests or family.
A Sweet & Savory Memory
I still remember my first encounter with Brussels sprouts—it wasn’t love at first bite. As a child, the boiled, pale green versions presented at holiday dinners were more punishment than pleasure. But everything changed the day I discovered roasting. One Thanksgiving, the oven overflowed with turkey and sides, and I decided to experiment with a new Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe. I drizzled fresh sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then tossed them in a mixture of honey and balsamic vinegar.
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Sweet & Savory Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Roast Perfection
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover how to make perfectly roasted glazed Brussels sprouts with a rich balsamic glaze for a delicious side dish that complements any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400F (200C).
2. Place Brussels sprouts in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Arrange sprouts cut side down on a parchment lined baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until edges are caramelized.
5. While roasting, combine balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan.
6. Simmer glaze over medium low heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Transfer roasted sprouts to a bowl and pour warm glaze over them.
8. Toss gently to coat all sprouts with the glaze.
9. Fold in optional pecans, bacon bits, or cranberries if using.
10. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: side dish
- Method: roasting
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: glazed brussels sprouts recipe, balsamic brussels sprouts, roasted glazed brussel sprouts, brussel sprout glaze, sweet savory brussels sprouts, holiday side dish, vegetable side dish
The result? Pure roasted perfection. Their outer leaves turned irresistibly crisp, the inside became tender, and the glaze added just enough sweetness to balance their earthy flavor. That moment transformed my opinion forever—Brussels sprouts could be indulgent, comforting, and even crave-worthy. Now, this Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts dish is a staple on our family table, enjoyed year-round but especially during the holidays. Each time they come sizzling out of the oven, I’m reminded that even the most misunderstood vegetables can shine with a little creativity and care.
Why Balsamic Works So Well with Brussels Sprouts
What makes Balsamic Brussels Sprouts so satisfying is the harmony between natural caramelization and the glaze’s tangy sweetness. When Brussels sprouts roast at high heat, their natural sugars emerge, developing browned, crisp edges. Add a rich Brussel Sprout Glaze made with balsamic vinegar, and you have an unbeatable duo—earthy bitterness meets deep, syrupy sweetness.
The glaze clings to the sprouts like a glossy coat, enhancing flavor with every bite. Other sweeteners, such as maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey, can be added to enrich the glaze and accentuate the balsamic’s complexity. A dash of Dijon mustard introduces depth, while a sprinkle of sea salt keeps flavors balanced.
This Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe isn’t limited to its components; it’s about finding balance. The balsamic glaze amplifies everything that’s naturally delicious about Brussels sprouts while masking any sharp bitterness. The result is a dish that’s not only sophisticated in taste but also versatile enough to pair with meats, poultry, or even vegetarian mains. Over time, this combination has become a kitchen favorite—proof that sometimes, all it takes is a drizzle of balsamic to reimagine an entire vegetable.
The Perfect Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Glazed Brussels Sprouts
The secret to mastering a Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe lies in balancing texture and flavor. Start with fresh, firm sprouts — their tightly packed leaves signal good quality and maximum flavor absorption. Below is a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make Balsamic Brussels Sprouts that are beautifully crisp on the outside and tender within.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Brussels sprouts | 1 ½ pounds (about 680 g) | Trim ends and halve large sprouts |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Avocado oil or melted butter also work |
| Salt | ¾ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground gives best flavor |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Optional for a subtle savory note |
| Balsamic vinegar | 3 tablespoons | Use aged balsamic for deeper flavor |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 ½ tablespoons | Substitute with brown sugar or agave |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds tang and balances sweetness |
| Crushed red pepper (optional) | A pinch | For a gentle heat |
| Toasted pecans or walnuts (optional) | ¼ cup | Adds crunch and rich flavor |
| Cooked bacon bits (optional) | 2–3 strips, crumbled | Adds smoky depth |
| Dried cranberries (optional) | 2 tablespoons | Provides sweetness and color contrast |
This table provides the base for a classic Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts dish, but feel free to customize to your taste. Bacon creates a hearty side for meats, while pecans and cranberries bring a holiday-worthy twist. The basic Brussel Sprout Glaze—a mix of balsamic, honey, and Dijon—strikes that perfect balance between acidic brightness and rich sweetness.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method & Tools
Creating perfect Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is an easy process when you follow the right technique. The key is allowing the sprouts to roast at high heat so they caramelize beautifully before being coated in the glossy glaze.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Baking sheet (large enough to hold sprouts in a single layer)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cup set
- Small saucepan (for the glaze)
- Silicone spatula or whisk
- Tongs for tossing the roasted sprouts
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts, slicing each one in half through the stem. Removing any yellow outer leaves ensures you start with only the freshest pieces.
Place the halved sprouts in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until each piece is evenly coated. This oil coating is what helps them roast up crisp and golden.
Step 2: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Spread the sprouts evenly on your lined baking sheet, cut side down. Make sure there’s space between each piece—overcrowding traps steam and prevents the crisp texture that Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts are known for.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. By the end, the edges should be caramelized and lightly charred, and the centers tender.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the sprouts roast, prepare the Brussel Sprout Glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium-low and whisk continuously as the mixture reduces and thickens slightly—about 5–7 minutes.
The goal is a syrupy consistency that coats a spoon but isn’t sticky like caramel. If you prefer a stronger tang, add a splash more balsamic; for extra sweetness, drizzle in another teaspoon of honey or syrup.
Step 4: Combine & Coat
Once your sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer to a clean mixing bowl. Pour the warm balsamic glaze over the top, tossing gently to coat every leaf and edge. Watching the glossy glaze cling to the caramelized sprouts is part of the delicious reward!
If you’d like, fold in optional add-ins such as toasted nuts, bacon bits, or cranberries at this stage. Each mix-in brings personality and texture to your Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts to a serving dish and drizzle any remaining glaze from the bowl or pan over the top for extra shine. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, seafood, and vegetarian mains alike. The glaze’s sweet-tangy depth enhances any entrée while making even ordinary dinners feel gourmet.
Cooking Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas
Tips for Getting That Perfect Roast Every Time
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each sprout space so they roast, not steam, ensuring crisp edges.
- Dry thoroughly before roasting. Pat sprouts completely dry after rinsing for perfect caramelization.
- Use high heat for natural caramelization. Roast at 400°F to 425°F (200°C to 220°C) for deep golden edges.
- Coat evenly with oil before glazing. Ensures uniform cooking and helps glaze adhere later.
- Choose sprouts wisely. Opt for small to medium sprouts that are firm and tightly packed.
- Timing is everything. Check around 20 minutes for crisp edges and tender centers.
Creative Twists and Pairing Ideas for Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Once you’ve perfected your Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, it’s time to get creative. These variations and pairings will keep your menu exciting year-round.
- Maple-Balsamic Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup for earthy sweetness.
- Dijon and Garlic Glaze: Stir roasted garlic and extra mustard for bolder flavor.
- Apple Cider Balsamic Glaze: Mix apple cider vinegar for a fruity accent.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot honey for warmth.
Seasonal Adds:
- Fall: Dried cranberries, roasted pecans, cinnamon.
- Winter: Bacon bits or chopped dates for sweet-savory depth.
- Spring: Lemon zest, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
- Summer: Pair with grilled meats for outdoor dining.
Delicious Pairings:
- Roasted chicken or turkey for comforting dinners.
- Baked or grilled salmon to balance richness.
- Steak or pork tenderloin for elegant contrast.
- Vegetarian grain bowls with quinoa or farro.
Serve as appetizers on skewers with shaved Parmesan, or toss cooled Balsamic Brussels Sprouts into salads for extra flavor. However you present them, these Brussel Sprout Recipes with Balsamic offer a versatile, show-stopping addition to any table.
Frequently Asked Questions & Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions about Glazed Brussels Sprouts
How do I make my Brussels sprouts crispy without burning them?
Roast dry, trimmed sprouts cut-side down at 400–425°F and don’t overcrowd the pan. Apply the Brussel Sprout Glaze after roasting so sugars don’t burn.
Can I make balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes. Roast ahead, then reheat at 400°F for 5–7 minutes before tossing with warm glaze to revive crispness.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
Try red wine or apple cider vinegar, or mix soy sauce with honey for a unique sweet-savory substitute.
Are these glazed Brussels sprouts keto-friendly?
Swap honey or maple syrup for a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup to make keto-friendly Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.
How long do leftovers stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container up to 3–4 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Simple, Delicious, and Always a Hit
Sweet & Savory Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Roast Perfection captures the joy of bold flavor and simple prep. This Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe turns humble ingredients into a crowd-pleasing side: golden sprouts coated in a glossy Brussel Sprout Glaze with the ideal mix of tang and sweetness.
Serve Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with roasted meats, seafood, or holiday favorites. Their balance of rich glaze and crisp leaves delivers elegance in every bite. So preheat your oven, whisk that glaze, and discover why Roasted Glazed Brussel Sprouts continue to steal the spotlight—turning even skeptics into lifelong fans.
