If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall head over heels for this Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It takes these often-overlooked little veggies and transforms them into crispy, caramelized bites bursting with sweet and tangy flavor. Roasting brings out their natural nuttiness, and that luscious balsamic reduction ties everything together with a glossy finish you’ll want to drizzle over everything. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Brussels sprouts will have a whole new place at your dinner table and in your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, fresh, and essential to creating those perfectly crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts. Each one plays a vital role, from the vibrant green that pops, to the silky, sweet tang of balsamic that finishes the dish with flair.
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts: The star ingredient, these little cabbages become irresistible when roasted to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Helps create that luscious crisp edge while keeping the sprouts tender inside.
- Kosher Salt: Elevates the natural flavors and enhances the caramelization process.
- Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- â…“ cup Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze: The magic finishing touch that reduces down to a syrupy glaze full of tangy richness.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the sprouts roast evenly and become beautifully crisp without losing their vibrant color.
Step 2: Slice the Brussels Sprouts
Trim and slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise through the core. This maximizes their surface area so they develop those gorgeous browned edges during roasting.
Step 3: Season and Toss
In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Be generous with the seasonings to make sure every bite is well-flavored.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the sprouts evenly on a sheet pan and roast for 30 to 40 minutes. Halfway through, give them a gentle toss so they crisp up on all sides. Look for a beautiful golden brown color and slight char for that irresistible texture.
Step 5: Make the Balsamic Reduction
While the sprouts roast, pour ⅓ cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Then lower to a simmer and let it reduce until it thickens and coats a spoon, about 15 minutes. This syrupy glaze intensifies the balsamic’s natural sweetness and adds a luscious finish.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once the sprouts are beautifully roasted, transfer them to a serving bowl and toss gently with the warm balsamic reduction. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the crispy sprouts and sticky glaze.
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped pecans for a pleasant crunch. A handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese also adds a salty, creamy nuance that complements the tangy balsamic perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe makes a fantastic side for any roasted or grilled meat, especially chicken, pork, or steak. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple quinoa salad to balance out the flavors and make a complete, colorful meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Brussels sprouts over a bed of warm polenta or toss them into a grain bowl with roasted sweet potatoes and fresh herbs. You can also make a vibrant salad by adding them to mixed greens with goat cheese and toasted walnuts drizzled with extra balsamic glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sprouts will stay tasty but lose a bit of their crispness. A good tip is to store the balsamic glaze separately to re-toss before serving again.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended because Brussels sprouts tend to get mushy after thawing and reheating, and the balsamic glaze can separate. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, gently reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. This helps regain some crispness without making the sprouts soggy like a microwave might. Add a splash of balsamic glaze if needed to freshen up the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen if pressed for time. Just thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture that prevents crisping.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, a combination of red wine vinegar and a touch of honey can mimic the sweet and tangy flavor. However, balsamic is the star here, so try to find it for the authentic glaze.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! This Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it an excellent side dish for a variety of dietary preferences.
How do I know when the balsamic reduction is done?
The reduction is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should be syrupy but not too sticky or burnt. Keep a close eye towards the end to avoid burning.
Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic reduction a day ahead and refrigerate it. Warm it gently before tossing with the roasted Brussels sprouts for convenience on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to turn simple veggies into something truly special and crave-worthy. The combination of crisp roasted sprouts with that sweet, tangy glaze is just too good not to share and enjoy often. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it transforms Brussels sprouts into a star side dish at your table!
Print
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts, featuring roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a rich, tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect as a savory side dish with a crispy texture and a sweet, bold glaze.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Glaze
- â…“ cup Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for roasting the Brussels sprouts.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Slice the Brussels sprouts in half through the core ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Season the Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, then generously season them with kosher salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread them on a sheet pan in a single layer and roast for 30 to 40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Make Balsamic Reduction: While roasting, place â…“ cup balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it reduce by half or until it coats the back of a spoon, about 15 minutes.
- Toss with Glaze: Transfer roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl and toss them with the balsamic reduction until well coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure Brussels sprouts are dry before tossing with oil.
- Watch the balsamic vinegar closely to prevent burning during reduction.
- Can be garnished with toasted nuts or Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
