Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic vegetable that can impress even the pickiest eaters. The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar transforms Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering dish suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re roasting them as a side for dinner or serving them at a holiday gathering, this recipe promises to steal the show.

Why Make This Recipe

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but they deserve a chance to shine on your plate. Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts offer a perfect balance of flavors that bring out the best in this nutritious vegetable. Not only are they delicious, but Brussels sprouts are also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet. The sweet and savory glaze enhances the natural earthiness of the sprouts, making them irresistible.

Furthermore, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time. It’s a great way to introduce Brussels sprouts to your family and friends, and you might just find that they become a new favorite!

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is a straightforward process that will yield delicious results. Follow the steps below to craft a dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1½ tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we’re aiming for.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. To ensure they get nice and crispy, pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
Season the Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them. This will help them roast evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20–25 minutes. Flip them halfway through to promote even cooking. They are done when they are golden and crispy.
Prepare the Glaze: While the sprouts are roasting, create your glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using). Simmer over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
Add Flavor: If you’re using garlic, stir it into the glaze just before removing it from the heat.
Combine and Serve: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, toss them with the warm glaze immediately after baking. Serve hot, and if you like a little kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes.

Pro Tips for Success with Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Choose Fresh Sprouts: Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact. Avoid any that are yellowing or wilted.
Dry Thoroughly: Ensure that the sprouts are dried well after washing. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess rather than crispiness.
Use a Hot Oven: Don’t be tempted to lower the oven temperature; a hot oven promotes crispness while cooking the insides perfectly.
Line Your Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also aids in achieving an even roast.
Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the glaze based on your preference. Add more honey for sweetness or balsamic for acidity.
Experiment with Spices: To add different flavor profiles, try incorporating spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder into the seasoning.

Flavor Variations for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Maple Syrup: Swap out honey for maple syrup for a richer, more autumnal flavor.
Bacon Bits: For a savory twist, add crispy bacon bits to the roasted Brussels sprouts just before drizzling with the glaze.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven for added flavor and a gourmet touch.
Nuts: Adding toasted almonds or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Honey: If you prefer heat, try using spicy honey or adding sriracha to the glaze to give your dish a kick.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can be served in various ways to complement your meal:

As a Side Dish: These sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef.
In a Salad: Cool the roasted sprouts and toss them into a spinach or kale salad with nuts, cranberries, and feta cheese.
As an Appetizer: Serve them with toothpicks as a delicious finger food at parties or gatherings.
Topped on a Grain Bowl: Add to bowls of quinoa or rice, along with your favorite veggies and a protein for a filling meal.
For a Brunch Spread: Include them as part of a brunch offering along with eggs and pastries.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

To store your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to freeze them, it’s best to do so before roasting. Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them, then toss them with the olive oil and seasonings. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can roast them directly from frozen; just increase the cooking time slightly.

For best taste and texture, it is recommended to consume them fresh. Reheating them may not yield the same crispy results.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrients | Amount |
|—————-|————-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 250mg |

FAQ About Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they might not get as crispy as fresh ones. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe. You may also need to adjust the cooking time.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it up in a saucepan or microwave before tossing it with the roasted Brussels sprouts.

What other vegetables work well with this glaze?

This honey balsamic glaze is versatile! You can use it on roasted carrots, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust cooking times depending on the size and type of vegetable.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are great for meal prep. They reheat well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week as part of your lunches or dinners.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already almost vegan-friendly as it relies on plant-based ingredients. Just substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a fully vegan dish.

What should I do if my Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy?

If your Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy, ensure they are dried thoroughly before roasting. Also, check that they aren’t too crowded on the baking sheet, as this can cause steaming rather than roasting.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavor and texture that makes eating vegetables a joy. The sweet and savory glaze adds a touch of sophistication to this simple recipe, allowing this underappreciated vegetable to shine. Whether served at a family dinner, a festive gathering, or just a simple weeknight meal, they are sure to please everyone. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious dish that showcases Brussels sprouts in the best possible light!