Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for an easy side dish that’s guaranteed to impress, you’ve come to the right place! These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a true favorite in my home. The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic glaze works wonders on the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts, transforming them into a delicious treat that even vegetable skeptics can’t resist.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this recipe shines in any setting. It’s quick to whip up yet feels fancy enough for special occasions. Trust me, once you try these crispy little gems, they’ll quickly become a staple on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbeatable Flavor: The sweet-and-tangy glaze makes every bite burst with flavor.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love these Brussels sprouts; they’re that good!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra and enjoy them throughout the week — they taste great reheated!
• Versatile Dish: Great alongside any main course or as part of a holiday spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need!

• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture.
• Spice it up: For those who love heat, mix in some diced jalapeños before roasting.
• Switch up the sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
• Include other veggies: Add sliced carrots or bell peppers to the mix for more color and flavor.

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispiness on your Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts carefully. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel — this step is crucial! Removing excess moisture helps them roast beautifully without steaming.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts

In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated. This seasoning enhances their natural flavor and ensures they roast evenly.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Spread the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them; giving each sprout space allows for better caramelization. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While your sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Simmer this mixture for about 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly — this adds depth to your dish.

Step 6: Combine and Enjoy!

Once your Brussels sprouts are done roasting, toss them immediately with the warm glaze. This step infuses each sprout with that delectable sweet-and-tangy flavor you’ll love. Serve hot and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick!

Now grab your fork and dig in — you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These tips will help you achieve that perfect crispy texture and mouthwatering flavor!

• Dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly: Ensuring your sprouts are completely dry before tossing them in oil helps them crisp up instead of steaming in the oven.
• Use high heat: Roasting at 425°F (220°C) is ideal for achieving that golden brown color and crispy exterior. Don’t be afraid to crank up the temperature; it promotes caramelization.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Spacing out your Brussels sprouts allows hot air to circulate around them, leading to a more even roast and ensuring they get nice and crispy.
• Mix the glaze while they roast: Preparing your honey balsamic glaze while the sprouts are roasting saves time and ensures it’s warm when you toss it with the hot veggies, enhancing flavor absorption.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize this dish. A pinch of thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste even more!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Serving these Brussels sprouts beautifully can make a big difference in presentation and enjoyment. Here are some ideas to consider when plating this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich glaze.
• Toasted nuts: Adding toasted walnuts or pecans provides a crunchy texture contrast and enhances the nutty flavor profile of Brussels sprouts.
• Zest of lemon: A light dusting of lemon zest before serving can brighten up the dish, adding a refreshing zing that balances out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and complements the rich flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet, tender bites pair wonderfully with the tangy glaze of your Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For added protein, serve alongside grilled chicken or marinated tofu. Both options complement the sweet-and-tangy notes of this dish.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice pilaf with herbs serves as an earthy base that balances out the bright flavors from the Brussels sprouts and enhances your meal’s overall complexity.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy this delicious side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week, making healthy eating even easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze before roasting.
• Place trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the leftover Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Roast for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them briefly, but they won’t retain their crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before roasting to achieve that crispy finish.

How do I make my Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts extra crunchy?

For extra crunch, make sure to space the sprouts out on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Also, pat them dry before adding oil, as moisture can hinder crispiness!

What can I serve with Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These versatile sprouts pair beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even as part of a hearty grain bowl. They elevate any meal effortlessly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts! They’re not only easy to make but also deliver an incredible flavor punch that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy each bite of their sweet-and-tangy goodness, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with others. Happy cooking!