Irresistible Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Balsamic Glaze

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The sound of caramelized Brussels sprouts sizzling in the oven, paired with the tangy-sweet aroma of balsamic glaze—it’s a combination that’s hard to resist, isn’t it? Honestly, roasted Brussels sprouts are one of those dishes that turn skeptics into believers. I remember the first time I tried this recipe, it felt like magic. The transformation of simple ingredients into something so flavorful and elegant blew my mind. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a holiday table, this recipe is a total game-changer. Trust me, you’ll be making these irresistible roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze on repeat!

If you’ve ever struggled to get your family or friends to eat their veggies, this dish might just be your secret weapon. The crispy edges, the natural sweetness brought out by roasting, and the punch of balsamic glaze—it’s all about balance. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal prep and basic pantry staples. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special, and I promise, you’ll be craving Brussels sprouts in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy evenings or last-minute entertaining.
  • Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen. No fancy ingredients or specialty items required.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday side dish, these roasted Brussels sprouts shine every time.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters who “don’t like vegetables” love these crispy, caramelized sprouts with that tangy glaze.
  • Unbelievably Delicious: There’s something about the crispy edges and sweet-tangy balsamic glaze that make every bite irresistible.

What sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail. Roasting the sprouts at a high temperature brings out their natural sweetness and creates those golden-brown, crispy edges we all love. Drizzling balsamic glaze at just the right moment adds a layer of complexity that elevates this dish to restaurant-quality. It’s comfort food meets gourmet—without the fuss!

What Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s everything you’ll need:

  • Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, medium-sized sprouts work best. Trim the stems and halve them for even cooking.
  • Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Salt: Fine sea salt enhances the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Store-bought works great, but you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or sugar.
  • Optional Add-Ins: Crushed garlic, grated Parmesan, or toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Pro tip: When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for vibrant green ones with tight, compact leaves. Avoid any that feel soft or have yellow discoloration. For the balsamic glaze, I recommend brands like Colavita or Trader Joe’s for a rich, balanced flavor.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these irresistible roasted Brussels sprouts:

  • Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet helps ensure even roasting.
  • Parchment Paper: Optional but recommended for easy cleanup.
  • Knife: A sharp knife for trimming and halving the sprouts.
  • Mixing Bowl: To toss the sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the sprouts halfway through roasting.

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil. And don’t worry if you don’t have a fancy balsamic glaze—making your own is a breeze!

Preparation Method

roasted Brussels sprouts preparation steps

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for crispy Brussels sprouts.
  2. Prep the Brussels sprouts: Wash the sprouts, trim the stems, and cut them in half lengthwise. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Season the sprouts: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the sprouts. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side down. This helps them caramelize beautifully.
  5. Roast: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The edges should be golden and crispy while the centers remain tender.
  6. Add the balsamic glaze: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the sprouts. Toss gently to coat.
  7. Serve: Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and garnish with optional Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Keep an eye on the sprouts during roasting to prevent burning. If they start to over-brown, reduce the oven temperature slightly. And don’t skimp on the glaze—it’s the star of the show!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

  • Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the sprouts plenty of space to roast evenly. Crowding leads to steaming instead of caramelizing.
  • Use high heat: Roasting at 425°F ensures crispy edges and a tender interior.
  • Flip halfway through: Turning the sprouts ensures even browning on both sides.
  • Go easy on the glaze: Too much glaze can make the sprouts soggy. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
  • Add toppings strategically: Parmesan or nuts should be added after roasting to maintain their texture.

One mistake I used to make was crowding the sprouts on the baking sheet—they’d end up mushy instead of crispy. Now I use two baking sheets if needed, and the results are perfection every time!

Variations & Adaptations

  • Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan and use maple syrup instead of honey in your homemade balsamic glaze.
  • Seasonal twist: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive holiday vibe.
  • Spicy kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the sprouts before serving.
  • Cheesy indulgence: Toss the sprouts with shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes for a melty topping.
  • Gluten-free adaptation: Most balsamic glazes are gluten-free, but double-check the label if you’re using a store-bought version.

Personally, I love adding toasted pecans and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for extra crunch and flavor—it’s always a hit at dinner parties!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These roasted Brussels sprouts are best served warm and fresh out of the oven. Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a standalone appetizer. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy balsamic beautifully.

To store leftovers, transfer the sprouts to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

If you’re planning ahead, you can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to roast. The balsamic glaze can also be made in advance and stored at room temperature.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These roasted Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients:

  • Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving
  • Rich in fiber: Supports digestion and helps you feel full.
  • Loaded with antioxidants: Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin C and other compounds that promote overall health.
  • Low-carb friendly: Perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
  • Potential allergens: Contains balsamic glaze; check for sulfites if sensitive.

As someone who’s always looking for nutrient-dense options, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and guilt-free!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, these roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are it. They’re a perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and tangy—and totally customizable to suit your taste.

Let me know how yours turned out, and don’t forget to share your own twists on this recipe in the comments below. Happy roasting!

FAQs

How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from getting soggy?

Make sure to roast them at a high temperature (425°F) and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh sprouts are ideal for this recipe, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

You can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or sugar until thickened.

Are roasted Brussels sprouts keto-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs, especially if you use a sugar-free balsamic glaze.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can trim and halve the sprouts a day in advance. Roast them fresh for best results, but leftovers reheat well in the oven.

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Irresistible Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Balsamic Glaze

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 23 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Optional: crushed garlic, grated Parmesan, toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash the Brussels sprouts, trim the stems, and cut them in half lengthwise. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the sprouts. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side down.
  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The edges should be golden and crispy while the centers remain tender.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the sprouts. Toss gently to coat.
  7. Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and garnish with optional Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts. Serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure crispy sprouts. Use high heat for caramelization and flip the sprouts halfway through roasting for even browning. Add toppings like Parmesan or nuts after roasting for the best texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 300
  • Fat: 7
  • Saturated Fat: 1
  • Carbohydrates: 12
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Balsamic Glaze, Easy Side Dish, Healthy Recipe, Holiday Side Dish, Crispy Vegetables

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