Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, you’ve come to the right place! These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of crunchy roasted sprouts with a sweet-and-tangy glaze is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a festive holiday feast. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up an impressive dish that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into why these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something tasty without the fuss.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a deliciously sweet-and-sour glaze that elevates the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
• Healthy Side Dish: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a great addition to any meal. This dish makes healthy eating feel indulgent!
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for various meals or even as a stand-alone snack; these sprouts are incredibly versatile.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their crispy texture and unique flavor make them a hit at gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this delightful dish! Just grab some simple, wholesome items from your kitchen or local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans before roasting for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• Change the sweetener: Swap honey for maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan alternative.
• Mix in other veggies: Add sliced carrots or bell peppers to the baking sheet for a colorful medley.

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving those perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve your Brussels sprouts, making sure they’re nice and dry after rinsing. Drying them ensures they roast instead of steam, giving you that lovely crunch we all crave.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavor while helping achieve that golden brown color in the oven.

Step 4: Roast Until Crispy

Spread the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them—this helps them roast evenly. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While your sprouts roast, let’s whip up that delicious glaze! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using). Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. If you’re adding garlic, stir it in at this point!

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once your Brussels sprouts are done roasting, toss them immediately with the warm glaze for maximum flavor infusion. Serve hot and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you’d like an extra kick!

And there you have it—crispy, sweet-and-sour Brussels sprouts that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Ready to take your Brussels sprouts to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve that perfect crispy texture and delightful flavor!

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Opt for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts. Fresh sprouts have better flavor and texture, making your dish even more delicious.
• Dry Thoroughly: After washing, make sure to pat the Brussels sprouts completely dry. Excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which prevents that golden crispiness.
• Use High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature (425°F) allows for maximum caramelization. This enhances the sweetness of the honey and brings out the natural flavors of the sprouts.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spacing out the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet is key. This allows hot air to circulate around them, ensuring they roast evenly and get crispy all around.
• Glaze While Hot: Tossing the roasted sprouts in the glaze immediately after baking ensures that they absorb all those wonderful flavors while still warm!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not just tasty; they also look stunning on a plate! Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and an added layer of freshness.
• Toasted Nuts: Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that complements the glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of these Brussels sprouts.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the tangy sweetness of the glaze.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots offer a lovely contrast in both color and flavor, making your meal visually appealing.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs adds a nice texture and is quick to prepare, rounding out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll elevate your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts into an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, whether as a side dish or a healthy snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• While fresh Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed right away, you can freeze leftovers if needed.
• Spread cooked Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Have questions about making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts? Here are some common queries answered just for you!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Using fresh Brussels sprouts is best for achieving that crispy texture. If using frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry before roasting.

What pairs well with Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts complement a variety of dishes! Try serving them alongside grilled chicken, quinoa salads, or even as part of a festive holiday spread.

Can I make these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts vegan?

Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan when using plant-based honey alternatives like maple syrup or agave nectar.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts! They are not only quick and easy to make but also bring a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I would love to hear how it turns out!