Name: Irresistibly Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts (Fresh, bright green); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (High-quality extra virgin); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Adjust to preference); 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground); 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar (Thicker vinegar preferred); 2 tablespoons Honey (For caramelization)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a new star side dish to impress your family or friends, look no further! The moment I pulled these Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts from the oven, the sweet and tangy aroma enveloped my kitchen and hinted at the deliciousness to come. This recipe transforms ordinary Brussels sprouts into a shimmering, caramelized delight, boasting crispy edges and a sticky glaze that keeps everyone reaching for more.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about combining just a few simple ingredients—fresh sprouts, high-quality olive oil, rich balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey—to create an extraordinary experience that brightens any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or as a quick weeknight side, you’ll find that this dish is not just flavorful; it’s downright addictive! Plus, the customization options are endless, so you can tailor it to suit your taste perfectly. Join me in uncovering the magic of these delightful Brussels sprouts!

Why Love Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

Irresistible flavors: The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic creates a delicious glaze that enhances every bite.

Crispy texture: Each sprout roasts to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch that complements their tender interior.

Simple ingredients: With pantry staples like olive oil and honey, this recipe is easy to whip up!

Customizable options: Feel free to add nuts, bacon, or cheese to personalize your dish even more!

Healthy and vegetarian: A guilt-free yet indulgent choice for any meal that supports your wellness goals.

Crowd pleaser: This dish is sure to impress everyone, making it the perfect side for gatherings or family dinners.

Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

• • Discover the key components to make this delightful dish!

For the Sprouts

Brussels sprouts – The star of the show; choose fresh, bright green ones for the best flavor.
Olive oil – Helps achieve that perfect crispy texture; use high-quality extra virgin for rich flavor.
Kosher salt – Enhances the natural taste of the sprouts; adjust according to your preference.
Black pepper – Adds a subtle kick; freshly ground is ideal for optimal flavor.

For the Glaze

Balsamic vinegar – Provides sweet and tangy complexity; a thicker vinegar works best for richness.
Honey – Balances the acidity of the vinegar and aids in caramelization for delicious sticky sweetness in this easy recipe.

How to Make Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will ensure your Brussels sprouts achieve those desirable crispy edges.
Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, peel off any tough outer leaves, and slice each sprout in half for even cooking.
Season: Place the halved sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss gently until they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Roast: Lay the sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes. They should turn beautifully charred and crispy!
Make Glaze: While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl until well combined. This creates your delicious glaze!
Toss & Serve: Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, take them out of the oven and toss them in the balsamic-honey mixture until well coated. Serve immediately, drizzling any extra glaze over the top.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Delight are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can wash and trim the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Another component you can prepare ahead is the balsamic-honey glaze; whisk it together and refrigerate for up to 3 days—just make sure to give it a quick whisk before using, as it may thicken. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the prepared sprouts straight from the fridge, then toss them in your pre-made glaze, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s just as flavorful with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Dry First: Ensure Brussels sprouts are completely dry before tossing with oil to avoid steaming and promote maximum crispiness.
Quality Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it not only flavors but also aids in achieving that gorgeous golden, crispy texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Spread sprouts evenly on the baking sheet; overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of roast, losing that desired crunch.
Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the sprouts towards the end of roasting; you want them charred but not burned—20-25 minutes is usually perfect.
Customize With Care: Feel free to add nuts or bacon bits, but ensure they are accurately timed for roasting to enhance flavors without burning.
Reheat Wisely: For leftovers, avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy; reheat in the oven to maintain that lovely crispy finish.

What to Serve with Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing these sweet and tangy delights with dishes that complement their addictive flavors.

Roasted Chicken: The savory notes of roasted chicken balance the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a comforting dish.
Grilled Steak: A hearty steak with a charred crust pairs beautifully with the caramelized edges of the sprouts for a rich flavor combo.
Quinoa Salad: Serve on a bed of quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs and citrus to bring in bright, refreshing flavors that contrast wonderfully.
Creamy Polenta: The smooth, warm texture of creamy polenta serves as a perfect backdrop for the crispy sprouts, making every bite a delight.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: Add sweet maple-glazed carrots for a vibrant touch; their natural sweetness harmonizes with the balsamic glaze.
Honey-Crisp Apples: For a refreshing twist, a side of thinly sliced honey-crisp apples lends a crisp crunch, enhancing the dish’s sweet notes.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refresh your palate with sparkling water garnished with lime; its brightness cleanses your taste buds between bites.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a high note with a rich chocolate mousse, adding a luxurious finish that contrasts nicely with the sprouts.

This collection of pairings will surely enchant your guests and make your dinner memorable!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Keep your Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sprouts before glazing. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To revive their crispiness, reheat in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes. This ensures your Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are as delicious as when freshly made!
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the sprouts in the fridge overnight before roasting and glazing; this helps simplify the preparation and enhances flavor.

Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists, enhancing your dish with unique flavors and textures!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunchy texture. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
Savory Crunch: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a savory twist. The smokiness adds depth you didn’t know you were missing!
Cheesy Twist: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan for an added umami kick. The richness of cheese elevates the dish to another level.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. A little spicy contrast enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Boost: Toss in minced garlic before roasting for a fragrant and flavorful addition. The aroma will be irresistible!
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or a bit of orange zest for a refreshing contrast. It brightens the dish and balances the sweetness.
Sweet Twist: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a unique flavor. It adds a different dimension to the overall taste while maintaining sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic finish. It adds layers of flavor that will amaze your guests.

Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green sprouts that are tightly closed with no dark spots or yellowing leaves. Fresh sprouts should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are ready to cook. Larger sprouts might be woody inside, so I often opt for smaller ones for their tenderness and better flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels sprouts?
To store your Easy Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This will help retain their flavor and ensure they remain safe to eat. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the oven to keep their crispiness intact—about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (204°C) should do the trick!

Can I freeze Brussels sprouts after cooking them?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend doing so before glazing them. Spread the prepared sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out any excess air. They will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before roasting and glazing!

Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
If your Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy, it may be due to excess moisture. Always dry them thoroughly before tossing with oil to avoid steaming. Also, ensure you’re not overcrowding the baking sheet—this traps steam and prevents browning. For even roasting, give them room to breathe: spread them out in a single layer!

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Yes! While this recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, it’s good to note that honey is not considered vegan. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you could substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. Additionally, always check for allergies to common ingredients like nuts or any specific seasoning used.