Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and crisp edges of Brussels sprouts with a delicious balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or any time you want a healthy and satisfying vegetable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
• Balanced with sweet, tangy balsamic vinegar
• Just a few simple ingredients
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free
• Great for meal prep or dinner parties

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Maple syrup or honey
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim ends off Brussels sprouts and cut in half.
3. In a large bowl, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. While roasting, mix balsamic vinegar with maple syrup or honey in a small bowl.
7. Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
8. Return to oven for 5 more minutes to caramelize.
9. Serve warm, garnished with more balsamic glaze if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped bacon or pancetta for a savory twist
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese right before serving
• Include sliced red onions or garlic in the roast
• Try a spicy version with a pinch of chili flakes
• Use aged balsamic for a more concentrated flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 375°F oven for 5–8 minutes
• Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crispiness
• Not ideal for freezing due to texture change

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh are best for roasting, but thawed and dried frozen sprouts can work in a pinch.

What kind of balsamic vinegar should I use?

Use a good-quality balsamic for the best flavor; aged balsamic or balsamic glaze also works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, roast them ahead and reheat before serving, but wait to add the glaze until just before reheating.

Is maple syrup or honey better?

Both add sweetness—maple syrup is vegan, honey is slightly thicker and more floral.

Why are my Brussels sprouts soggy?

They may be overcrowded on the pan—give them space to roast instead of steam.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes, avocado oil or grapeseed oil are great alternatives to olive oil.

Are these Brussels sprouts keto-friendly?

Yes, just skip the sweetener or use a keto-friendly alternative.

Can I roast other vegetables with the Brussels sprouts?

Yes, carrots, sweet potatoes, or onions pair well, but cut them to similar sizes.

How do I get extra crispy edges?

Roast cut side down and avoid over-oiling. Using a hot pan can help too.

What proteins pair well with this side dish?

Roasted chicken, pork chops, steak, or salmon are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are an easy, flavorful way to turn a simple vegetable into a standout side dish. With crispy edges and a tangy-sweet glaze, this recipe is sure to become a favorite addition to any meal.

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