Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze add bold flavor and color to your holiday feast.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a festive, healthy side that transforms humble greens into a show-stopping dish. Their crispy edges and tender cores, drizzled with sweet-tart balsamic, make them a crowd-pleaser for any holiday table.
Whether you're hosting a Christmas dinner or Thanksgiving feast, these sprouts add a vibrant pop of color and nutrition. The balsamic glaze caramelizes the sprouts, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
This recipe is quick to prepare, requiring just 30 minutes of active time, and scales easily for larger groups. The rosemary garnish adds an aromatic, festive touch that complements turkey, ham, or even a vegan roast.
The key to success lies in roasting at high heat to achieve that coveted char, followed by a final drizzle of balsamic glaze for maximum flavor. Let's dive into why this recipe works wonders for your holiday menu.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
Ready in 30 minutes with just 5 ingredients, this recipe is perfect for last-minute holiday prep. No complex techniques required!
Healthy & Nutritious
Packed with vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, these sprouts add a nutrient-rich component to your meal.
Crowd-Pleasing
The sweet-tangy balsamic glaze creates a flavor profile that appeals to both adults and kids.
Festive Presentation
Crispy edges and vibrant green color make this a visually stunning addition to any holiday table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Crispy, caramelized sprouts with a sweet-tart balsamic finish.
Ingredients
- - 1 lb Brussels sprouts (about 20 sprouts)
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 1/2 tsp black pepper
- - 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- - 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Prep Sprouts: Trim stems and halve sprouts. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
💡 Use a sharp knife to halve sprouts evenly for even roasting.
Roast: Spread on parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until charred at edges.
💡 Check for doneness: sprouts should be tender with crispy edges.
Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over hot sprouts. Toss gently to coat.
💡 Add rosemary for extra aroma and festive flair.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts
The star of the show! Use fresh, firm sprouts for best texture.
Substitutions: Cauliflower or broccoli for a different veggie option.
Balsamic Glaze
Provides sweet-tart depth. Look for thick, syrupy glaze in grocery stores.
Substitutions: Balsamic vinegar (reduced) or maple syrup for vegan option.
Rosemary
Adds aromatic freshness and festive color.
Substitutions: Thyme or oregano for different herb notes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
High Heat Matters
Roast at 425°F (220°C) for crispy edges while keeping centers tender.
Even Sizing
Halve sprouts uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Fresh Herbs Boost Flavor
Add rosemary or thyme during roasting for aromatic depth.
Toss Gently
Use a spatula to flip sprouts halfway for even browning.
Variations & Customizations
Balsamic & Maple
Add 1 tsp maple syrup to balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
Cheesy Version
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese before roasting for a richer flavor.
Spicy Twist
Mix 1/2 tsp chili flakes with olive oil for a kick.
Vegan Option
Use maple syrup instead of balsamic glaze for vegan version.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey: Classic holiday pairing with complementary flavors.
- Ham: Sweet balsamic balances salty ham.
- Vegan roast: Adds brightness to plant-based mains.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight container in fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked sprouts for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C).
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in oven for best texture. Avoid microwave for crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Roast on parchment paper and check at 15 minutes. Adjust time as needed.
Q: Can I use frozen sprouts?
A: Yes, but thaw completely first to avoid steaming.
Q: How to store balsamic glaze?
A: Keep in airtight container in fridge for up to 6 months.
Final Thoughts
These roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a game-changer for holiday meals. Their vibrant color and bold flavor make them a standout side that pairs beautifully with any main dish. Whether you're serving turkey, ham, or a plant-based roast, this recipe adds both nutrition and visual appeal to your table.
The combination of crispy edges and tender centers, enhanced by the tangy balsamic, ensures everyone at the table will love them. Don't let the humble Brussels sprout fool you - with this recipe, you'll create a side dish that's anything but ordinary. Pin it now to ensure your holiday menu is complete!
