Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

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Brussels sprouts have always been one of those vegetables people either love or avoid, but when roasted with balsamic glaze, they turn into something absolutely irresistible. I used to think of Brussels sprouts as just another boring side dish, but once I started roasting them with a touch of balsamic vinegar, I realized how caramelized, crispy, and flavorful they could be. The combination of the slight bitterness of the sprouts with the deep sweetness of balsamic creates a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.

These Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish for any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a quick weeknight dinner. They require minimal ingredients and effort but deliver an explosion of flavor with crispy edges and a tender interior. If you’ve never been a fan of Brussels sprouts, this recipe might just change your mind!

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Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

• Crispy & Caramelized – Roasting at high heat gives the Brussels sprouts those deliciously crisp, golden-brown edges.
• Sweet & Tangy Flavor – The balsamic vinegar enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts while adding a slight tang.
• Simple Ingredients – You only need a handful of pantry staples to make this dish shine.
• Quick & Easy – Just toss, roast, and enjoy in under 30 minutes!
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any weeknight meal.

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What Kind of Balsamic Vinegar Should I Use?

The key to getting the best flavor in these Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts is using a good-quality balsamic vinegar. Aged balsamic vinegar works best because it has a thicker consistency and a richer, slightly sweet taste that caramelizes beautifully during roasting. If you only have regular balsamic vinegar, don’t worry—you can still use it, but consider reducing it on the stovetop for a syrupy texture. Balsamic glaze is another great option if you prefer an extra-sweet, concentrated flavor.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or adapt to what you have in your kitchen, here are some easy ingredient swaps:

• No Balsamic Vinegar? Try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a similar tangy depth.
• Want Extra Sweetness? A drizzle of honey or maple syrup will enhance the caramelization.
• Need More Crispiness? Toss in a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs before roasting.
• Prefer More Savory Notes? Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta before serving.
• Low on Olive Oil? Avocado oil or melted butter will work just as well for roasting.
• Add Some Heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick.

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Ingredients for this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in bringing out the best flavors and textures. Here’s why each one matters:

• Brussels Sprouts – The star of the dish! When roasted, they develop a crispy exterior and a tender, slightly sweet interior.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a deep, tangy sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during roasting.
• Olive Oil – Helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up and roast evenly, giving them a delicious golden-brown finish.
• Garlic (Optional but Recommended) – Enhances the dish with a savory depth and aromatic touch.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional) – If you love a hint of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup balances out the tanginess of the balsamic.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Adds a little heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

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Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures that the Brussels sprouts get perfectly crispy. Trim the ends of the sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then, slice them in half to expose more surface area for caramelization.

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Step 2: Toss with Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. If you’re adding garlic, honey, or red pepper flakes, mix them in at this stage. Toss everything well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.

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Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down. This helps them develop that golden-brown, crispy texture. Make sure they aren’t too crowded—if they’re packed too tightly, they’ll steam instead of roast.

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Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Crispy

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are crispy and caramelized.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, drizzle with a little extra balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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How Long to Cook Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roast best at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time depends on their size and how crispy you want them. If you like extra charred edges, you can leave them in for a few extra minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Flipping them halfway through ensures even browning and caramelization.

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Tips for Perfect Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Cut Evenly – Halve larger sprouts so they roast at the same rate. Smaller ones can stay whole.
• Roast Cut-Side Down – This allows for maximum caramelization and crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd – Spread them out on the baking sheet to ensure they roast instead of steam.
• Use High Heat – A hot oven (400°F or even 425°F) helps them get crispy and golden.
• Drizzle Balsamic After Roasting (Optional) – For a stronger balsamic flavor, toss them with a little extra vinegar right before serving.
• Add a Finishing Touch – Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, or crispy bacon for added depth.
• Experiment with Flavors – Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of smoked paprika for a twist.

These tips will guarantee perfectly crispy, caramelized, and flavorful Brussels sprouts every time!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan – If the Brussels sprouts are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roasting, resulting in a soggy texture. Use a large baking sheet or roast in batches.
• Not Drying the Sprouts – Excess moisture prevents them from crisping up. Pat them dry after washing.
• Skipping the Flip – Flipping them halfway ensures even browning on all sides.
• Using Too Much Balsamic Before Roasting – Too much liquid can make them mushy. Drizzle extra balsamic after roasting if you want a stronger flavor.
• Not Using Enough Oil – A good coating of olive oil helps create that crispy, caramelized texture.
• Roasting at Too Low a Temperature – Anything below 375°F may not give you the crispy edges you’re looking for.
• Forgetting the Seasoning – Salt enhances the natural flavors, and adding garlic, Parmesan, or chili flakes takes them to another level.

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What to Serve With Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts pair well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken

The slightly sweet and tangy balsamic glaze complements smoky grilled chicken perfectly.

2. Roasted Salmon

A simple lemon-butter salmon balances out the caramelized Brussels sprouts beautifully.

3. Steak

Serve alongside a juicy ribeye or filet mignon for an elegant meal.

4. Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture of mashed potatoes contrasts nicely with the crispy sprouts.

5. Quinoa or Rice

For a healthy vegetarian meal, mix them into a quinoa or rice bowl with a drizzle of extra balsamic.

6. Pasta

Toss them into a garlic butter pasta or a creamy Alfredo for added depth and crunch.

7. Turkey or Ham

These Brussels sprouts make a perfect holiday side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

8. Fried Eggs or Omelet

Turn them into a breakfast side by serving them with eggs for a savory morning dish.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, you can easily store and reheat these Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts while keeping them flavorful and crispy.

• Refrigeration – Store cooled Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating – For the best texture, reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
• Freezing – While possible, freezing is not recommended, as Brussels sprouts tend to lose their crispiness. If you must freeze them, store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, then reheat in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following nutrition estimate is based on a standard serving size of about ½ cup of balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts:

• Calories: ~120
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Protein: ~3g
• Fat: ~7g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~5g (from balsamic and natural sugars in Brussels sprouts)
• Sodium: ~150mg (varies based on added salt)

This dish is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants, making it a nutritious and delicious side dish!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Recipe in an Air Fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They’ll turn out extra crispy.

2. How Do I Make the Sprouts Less Bitter?

Roasting helps reduce bitterness, but adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup balances it out even more.

3. Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?

Yes, but they won’t get as crispy. Thaw and pat them dry before roasting, and increase the cooking time slightly.

4. Why Are My Brussels Sprouts Mushy?

They were either overcrowded, roasted at too low a temperature, or had too much moisture. Make sure to spread them out on the baking sheet.

5. Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?

Yes! Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to roast.

6. What Other Seasonings Can I Use?

Try smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of soy sauce for an umami boost.

7. Should I Roast Them Whole or Cut?

Cutting them in half allows for better caramelization, but smaller sprouts can be roasted whole.

8. Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding carrots, sweet potatoes, or red onions for a colorful and flavorful mix.

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Conclusion

If you love crispy, caramelized vegetables with bold flavor, Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a must-try! They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and go well with just about any meal. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends! Whether for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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