Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that can steal the spotlight, you’ve come to the right place! These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only simple to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. I love how the crispy texture combined with the sweet and tangy glaze elevates these humble little veggies into something truly special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

These Brussels sprouts are a fantastic way to sneak more veggies onto your plate while still enjoying something delicious. Plus, they’re quick to whip up and can be made ahead of time. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning side ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze makes these Brussels sprouts appealing even to picky eaters!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side for dinner or even as a tasty snack on their own.
• Gourmet Touch: Impress your guests with this restaurant-quality dish that’s simple enough for everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is easy with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

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

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans before roasting for added texture.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist to the dish.
• Make it sweeter: Try adding maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving those crispy edges and caramelized flavors that make these Brussels sprouts so irresistible.

Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then pat them completely dry. Getting rid of excess moisture is important because it helps them roast rather than steam, giving you that coveted crunch.

Step 3: Seasoning Time!

In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The oil will help them crisp up in the oven while seasoning enhances their natural flavor.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Spread the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows each sprout to roast evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While your sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and optional Dijon mustard in a small saucepan. Simmer for about 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. If you’re using garlic, stir it in at this stage to infuse that lovely flavor into your glaze.

Step 6: Toss & Serve

Once your Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, toss them immediately with the warm glaze. This step ensures every piece gets coated beautifully! Serve hot and feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top if you’re looking for an extra kick.

Enjoy every crunchy bite of these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts — they might just steal the show!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to achieving the perfect crispy texture and flavor, a few simple tips can make all the difference!

• Dry your Brussels sprouts thoroughly: Excess moisture can prevent them from roasting properly and achieving that delightful crispiness. Patting them dry ensures they roast rather than steam.

• Use high heat: Roasting at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) helps caramelize the Brussels sprouts faster, leading to that beautiful golden-brown exterior and delicious crunch.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Giving each sprout enough space allows for even cooking and browning. If you pile them up, they’ll steam instead of roast.

• Toss with glaze while warm: Adding the honey balsamic glaze to the hot Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven allows the flavors to meld beautifully and coat each piece evenly.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with different seasonings! Adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile even more.

How to Serve Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These glazed Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweet-and-tangy glaze perfectly.
• Toasted nuts: Adding crushed walnuts or pecans provides an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both texture and taste.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty lemon dressing pairs well with the rich flavor of the Brussels sprouts, adding a refreshing touch.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the honey balsamic glaze beautifully, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that contrasts nicely with the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts.
• Lentil stew: A hearty lentil stew offers protein and warmth, making for a satisfying meal alongside these crispy delights.

Now that you know how to make and serve these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy this scrumptious dish! Perfect for any occasion, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, making them a great addition to your weekly cooking routine. You can easily prepare this dish in advance and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the glaze separate to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Blanch the Brussels sprouts in boiling water for 2 minutes, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
• Drain and dry thoroughly.
• Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Drizzle with a bit of fresh balsamic glaze before serving for added flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

Can I make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts without honey?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness while keeping it plant-based.

How do I get my Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

To ensure maximum crispiness, be sure to pat the Brussels sprouts dry after washing and spread them out evenly without overcrowding on the baking sheet.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh is best for optimal crispiness, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.

What can I serve alongside Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as part of a vibrant grain bowl filled with your favorite veggies and protein.

Can I adjust the sweetness in my Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your personal taste preference. You can even add a little more balsamic vinegar if you like it tangy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts! This recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly special, offering a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying them as a healthy snack, they are sure to impress. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!