Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Name: Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness-Focused Recipes

I absolutely love making Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts for a delicious side dish that elevates any meal. The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar caramelizes the sprouts beautifully, creating a dish that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these sprouts always impress. Plus, they’re a great way to get in some greens while satisfying my cravings for something savory with a touch of sweetness.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:36:28.552Z

Every time I prepare these Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts, I’m reminded of how a simple dish can bring so much joy to the table. The key is in achieving the right balance between the honey and balsamic vinegar – just enough sweetness to complement the earthiness of the sprouts. I recommend roasting them until they are tender and slightly crispy, enhancing their natural flavors.

When trying different vegetable side dishes, I’ve learned that adding a touch of acidity can brighten up the flavors remarkably. The balsamic glaze does just that! Make sure to toss the sprouts halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization and don’t shy away from using a generous drizzle of the glaze right before serving for that extra pop of flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweetness of honey beautifully balances the savory sprouts
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
The glaze creates a delectable caramelized finish

      

The Role of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are not only a nutritious choice but also provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the honey balsamic glaze. Choosing fresh, firm sprouts ensures a better flavor and texture, so look for those with vibrant green leaves. If your sprouts are a bit older, trimming away the outer leaves can help revive their palatability before cooking.

For the best results, try to cut the Brussels sprouts evenly in half. This uniformity helps them roast evenly, leading to a consistent caramelization across the entire batch. If you find that certain portions are browning too quickly while others remain undercooked, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even heat exposure.

Perfecting the Glaze

The balance of sweetness and acidity in the honey balsamic glaze is what makes this dish stand out. Using high-quality balsamic vinegar is crucial, as a more refined balsamic will impart a richer flavor. If your glaze ends up too thick, adding a splash of water can help loosen it without sacrificing flavor. Likewise, if you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to increase the honey incrementally while simmering.

It's a good idea to monitor the glaze closely while cooking it over medium heat. If left unattended, it can quickly become overly thick or even burn, ruining the flavor profile. You’re aiming for a glossy finish that clings well to the Brussels sprouts, creating that perfect sticky coating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making them versatile for any meal setting. They are particularly delightful alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, where their sweetness complements savory flavors. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving can add a creamy texture that elevates the dish even further.

For those looking to add more layers of flavor, consider incorporating toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, right after tossing the sprouts with the glaze. This extra crunch introduces another dimension to the dish. Additionally, experimenting with spices like red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the glaze.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these honey balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts:

Ingredients

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts:

Preparation and Roasting

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat all the sprouts evenly.

Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through.

Making the Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey and balsamic vinegar. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Finishing Touch

Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, drizzle the honey balsamic glaze over them while they are still warm. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts as a perfect side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding minced garlic to the Brussels sprouts before roasting or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a touch of heat.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to regain some crispness on the outside. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make them soggy.

If you plan to meal prep, consider roasting a larger batch of Brussels sprouts without the glaze. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat and toss them in the warm honey balsamic glaze for a freshly made flavor. This method maintains both the texture and taste of the sprouts.

Dietary Modifications

For those looking to make this dish vegan, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, which will still provide that sweet element without the animal product. Both alternatives will maintain the balance of sweetness necessary for the recipe.

If you're watching your sugar intake, consider using a sugar-free honey alternative that can withstand the heat, as this will allow you to enjoy a similar flavor profile without the added sugar. Always taste-test after adding substitutions to ensure the desired balance is achieved.

Flavor Boosters

Adding garlic to the roasting process can enhance the dish’s flavor with an aromatic quality. Simply toss some minced garlic cloves with the Brussels sprouts before roasting for added depth. Be cautious not to add them too early, as garlic can burn quickly. Instead, consider adding it in the last 10 minutes of roasting to achieve that toasty flavor without compromising on taste.

If you're seeking a bit of a twist, incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the glaze can brighten the flavor profile. A teaspoon of fresh zest mixed in right before drizzling over the sprouts can uplift the dish, creating a fresh take on this classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but make sure to thaw and drain them before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a vegan alternative to honey.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and the glaze, then store everything separately in the fridge. Roast them just before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots or sweet potatoes can complement this dish well. Just adjust the roasting time based on their size.