Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful vegetable side that packs a punch, then you absolutely need to try these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. This dish brings together perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts with a luscious honey and tangy balsamic glaze that creates an irresistible balance of sweet and savory. The sprouts roast up beautifully crispy on the outside with tender, flavorful insides, while the glaze adds a silky, aromatic finish that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you are serving a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a simple but elevated dish, Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is a winner every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential to crafting the delightful flavors and textures that make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts so addictive. Each component plays a key role: olive oil helps create that coveted crispiness, the balsamic vinegar lends a tangy depth, and the honey adds just the right kiss of sweetness to balance everything perfectly.

• Brussels sprouts (1½ pounds): Fresh, trimmed, and halved for even roasting and perfect crispiness.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Ensures the sprouts roast to a golden, crispy finish without drying out.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts with a simple seasoning base.
• Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich, tangy sweetness that complements the honey beautifully.
• Honey (1½ tablespoons): Delivers a natural sweetness that caramelizes slightly when heated.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): Introduces a subtle zing for extra complexity in the glaze.
• Garlic clove, finely minced (1 small, optional): Gives the glaze a savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a spicy kick that wakes up the palate and balances the sweetness.

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to give the Brussels sprouts that wonderful crispy exterior. While the oven warms up, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half to maximize their exposure to heat. Be sure to pat them completely dry; moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings

In a large bowl, coat the Brussels sprouts evenly with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The olive oil encourages browning and crispiness, while the seasoning brings out the earthy, nutty flavor inherent in the sprouts. Don’t skimp on the oil here – it really makes a difference in texture!

Step 3: Roast to Golden Perfection

Lay the sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have plenty of space. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of roasting, leading to soggy edges. Roast the sprouts in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through so both sides achieve that gorgeous golden color and crunch. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t burn.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Balsamic Glaze

While the Brussels sprouts roast, it’s time to make the star glaze! In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard if using. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. If you opted to add garlic, stir it in now to infuse the glaze with aromatic depth. This glaze will beautifully coat the sprouts, adding that perfect sweet and tangy finishing touch.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

The moment the sprouts come out of the oven, toss them with the warm glaze so every crispy bit is coated in glossy, flavorful goodness. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat to contrast the sweetness. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor impact – these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed fresh and hot!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

To elevate your dish, try garnishing with toasted nuts like slivered almonds or chopped pecans for an added crunch and nutty aroma. Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or thyme can brighten the flavor profile and enhance the dish’s visual appeal. A light sprinkle of shaved Parmesan cheese adds a savory, creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the glaze.

Side Dishes

Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and complement a variety of mains. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty grain bowl for a balanced meal. They also make an excellent side for holiday feasts, bringing freshness and a pop of flavor that lifts richer dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Brussels sprouts over a bed of creamy polenta or wild rice pilaf. You can also stuff them into a warm pita pocket with goat cheese and arugula for a creative appetizer or light lunch option. Even sprinkling some crispy bacon bits on top turns them into a savory, irresistible snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They will lose some of their crispiness but maintain most of their delicious flavor.

Freezing

While freezing Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is possible, it’s not ideal as the texture changes significantly once thawed and reheated. If you must freeze, flash freeze the roasted sprouts before glazing and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the glaze and reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these Brussels sprouts is in a hot oven or toaster oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This revives some of the original crispness much better than microwaving, which tends to make them soggy. After reheating, toss again with a little extra glaze for freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended because they roast up crispier and have better texture. Frozen sprouts tend to release moisture while roasting, which can prevent achieving that coveted crispiness.

Is the Dijon mustard necessary in the glaze?

No, it’s optional but highly encouraged! Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth that balances sweetness and acidity beautifully, making the glaze more complex.

What can I substitute for honey if I’m vegan?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are fantastic vegan-friendly substitutes that will maintain the glaze’s sweetness and stickiness without altering the overall flavor drastically.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze before roasting will give your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts a nice spicy kick.

How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from being bitter?

Choosing small to medium-sized, fresh Brussels sprouts and trimming the outer discolored leaves helps reduce bitterness. Also, roasting at a high temperature caramelizes their natural sugars, balancing any residual bitterness.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, they’ll quickly become a go-to side dish in your kitchen. The combination of crisp texture and that luscious, tangy-sweet glaze is truly a crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and gourmet. I can’t wait for you to savor this recipe and watch it earn a special place at your table, just like it has at mine!

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