Balsamic Glaze Brussels Sprouts

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Balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts are a game-changing way to enjoy this underrated side dish. With a deep caramelization from roasting and the tangy sweetness of balsamic reduction, this dish delivers a punch of flavors. Serve it with toasted almond slices for a holiday classic with a crowd-pleasing twist!

💚 Why you’ll love this recipe

• Only 6 ingredients: With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a gourmet side dish in no time!
• Depth of flavor: The combination of caramelized Brussels sprouts and balsamic reduction is one power duo, offering an incredible taste experience.
• Healthy choice: Balsamic Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, like vitamins C and K, and this recipe makes them downright irresistible.
• Crowd-pleaser: We can assure you that even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts eaters will be reaching for seconds.

If you love balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, you should really check out our air fryer Brussels sprouts, air fryer green beans, air fryer eggplant, and air fryer zucchini.

🥬 What are balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts?

Balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts are one of our favorite ways to prepare this mini cabbage veggie. Unlike basic steamed sprouts, this contemporary twist is crispy yet tender and packed with rich flavors. Plus, it only requires 6 ingredients and less than 30 minutes!

First, the Brussels sprouts are roasted to give them a caramelized exterior. Then to finish them off, they’re tossed with a quick and easy balsamic reduction. The texture perfectly contrasts between crunchy roasted outer leaves and soft interiors, amplified by the sweet and tangy glaze.

Roasting is definitely our cooking method of choice here, as it brings out the sprouts’ natural sweetness and creates an absolutely incredible crust. And, to elevate it further, we recommend topping everything off with toasted almond slivers for added crunch!

🤔 How to choose perfect Brussels spouts

Since there are so few ingredients in this Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze recipe, selecting the best sprouts is key to achieving delicious results! Here’s what to check for at the store:

• Size: Opt for small to medium-sized sprouts — they tend to be sweeter and more tender. You also want them to be fairly uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
• Color: Look for vibrant and dark green outer leaves. Avoid sprouts with too many yellow or brown spots.
• Tightness: You want the leaves to be tightly packed leaves, which signifies fresh sprouts. Loose layers may indicate an old age.
• Firmness: They should feel dense and firm to the touch, not soft or spongy.
• Stalks: If they’re still attached to the stalk, the stalk should be fresh and not dried out, indicating a recent harvest.
• Smell: A mild, slightly earthy scent is ideal. Steer clear of Brussels sprouts with any strong or unpleasant odors.

🌱 Are balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts vegan?

Oftentimes, balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts recipes incorporate honey into the balsamic reduction, making them vegetarian but not vegan-friendly.

However, you can just as easily use agave or maple syrup for a 100% plant-only version that tastes equally delicious.

🛒 Ingredients & substitutions

• Brussels sprouts: These mini cabbages have a nutty, earthy flavor that is further enhanced by roasting. Look for them at any grocery store or farmer’s market. If you can’t find them, broccoli florets make a good alternative.
• Olive oil: To help brown the Brussels sprouts as they roast and add a rich, fruity undertone. You can also use avocado, sunflower, or safflower oil.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the sprouts. You can use any type of salt you prefer here, including kosher salt or sea salt.
• Pepper: Adds a hint of heat. Freshly cracked pepper is best for maximum flavor.
• Balsamic vinegar: We suggest purchasing high-quality balsamic vinegar from Italy, particularly one with a DOP label if you can afford it. If your balsamic vinegar is lower quality (not as thick and sweet), you will need to reduce it for longer and may need to add more sweetener. You can also use a premade balsamic reduction and skip the additional agave syrup.
• Agave: Used as a natural sweetener to balance the tang of the vinegar. No agave on hand? Use maple syrup as a substitute.

For a complete ingredient list and step-by-step guide, scroll down to our recipe card.

📝 How to make Balsamic glaze brussels sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the sprouts

Begin by prepping your Brussels sprouts. Wash and thoroughly dry the sprouts. Trim off the tough, woody base and any dry outer leaves, then cut each sprout in half lengthwise (or quarters if they’re quite large).

Did you know Brussels sprouts are believed to have been grown in Belgium since the 13th century? Hence, the name!

Step 2: Season the sprouts

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and the seasonings until they’re well-coated. Transfer the sprouts to a lined baking sheet, adjusting them so the cut sides face down. Positioning the cut sides down enhances caramelization, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Roast the sprouts

Roast your Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and deeply caramelized. Our oven takes 20 minutes, but start checking them around 17 minutes. Making sure your oven is nice and hot is key for the perfect caramelization.

Additionally, we find the less you disturb the sprouts as they roast, the better! This allows the outer leaves to brown from the upper heating element and the cut halves to caramelize against the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the glaze

As the sprouts are roasting, reduce the balsamic vinegar and agave in a small saucepan until the consistency is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Again, the amount of time this will take largely depends on the quality of your vinegar.

Step 5: Assemble the dish

When the Brussels sprouts are done, toss them with the balsamic reduction in the same mixing bowl as before. Give one a taste test and sprinkle additional salt if necessary. Serve your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts immediately with toasted almonds on top. Happy eating!

If you have questions about this balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts recipe, check out our FAQs or leave a comment down below!

🥗 What to serve with balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts

You can easily prepare these balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts for all your holiday gathering needs! For a full spread, try pairing them with mains and other sides like these:

• Cauliflower steaks
• Vegan pot pie
• Vegan meatloaf
• Vegan meatballs
• Grilled vegan chicken
• Vegan cornbread
• Potatoes and green beans
• Red skin mashed potatoes
• Stewed potatoes

🌡️ Storage & reheating

If you end up with any leftover balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, here’s what to do: 

• Fridge: Let the roasted sprouts cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: We don’t recommend freezing roasted balsamic Brussels sprouts if possible, but you can if it’s your only option. Once cooled, spread them out on a baking pan and flash-freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once they’re solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 10-12 months.
• Reheating: You can warm your balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts again in a 350F oven until heated through, which takes approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet on the stovetop over medium until warmed.
• Prep ahead: To reduce the preparation time on the day of, wash and cut the Brussels sprouts a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. Make the balsamic glaze just before serving.

♻️ Variations

• Spicy: Sprinkle your balsamic Brussels sprouts with red pepper flakes to add a kick of heat.
• Citrus zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest for brightness.
• Garlicky: Toss the sprouts with garlic powder for roasted, savory undertones.
• Nutty: Toss them with toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
• Herbaceous: Mix in fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, after roasting the sprouts.
• Smoky: Add a dash of smoked paprika to infuse a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
• Asian twist: Use soy sauce and sesame oil in the glaze for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Mediterranean style: Mix the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

🧑‍🍳 Top tips

• Use fresh sprouts: Choose bright green, firm Brussels sprouts for the best results.
• Cut to an even size: Ensure the sprouts are halved or quartered uniformly for even roasting.
• Get that oven hot: Make sure your oven is at a hot temperature and thoroughly preheated. This helps in achieving a perfectly caramelized exterior.
• Prevent sticking: Use a silicone baking mat or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
• Spread out: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or you’ll end up with soggy, steamed Brussels sprouts. Keep them in a single layer.
• Watch the glaze: Don’t let the balsamic mixture burn! It’s important to keep a close eye on it and stir it frequently.
• Reduction time: The balsamic glaze reduction time will vary depending on the quality of your vinegar. If it is already quite thick and sweet, you may only need to reduce it for 2-3 minutes. If it’s thinner, it will need to reduce for at least 10 minutes.
• Glaze consistency: Aim for a glaze that’s thick but still pourable. Don’t forget, it will thicken even more as it cools.
• Serve hot: For the best texture and flavor, serve your balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts immediately.

💬 FAQ

🍴 More side dish recipes

If you enjoyed this balsamic glaze Brussels sprouts recipe, you’ll love our other vegetable-forward dishes like these: 

• Corn Ribs: Sweet, smoky, and tender plant-based ribs made from corn on the cob.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes: Coated in warming seasonings and fried to perfection.
• Air Fryer Green Beans: A quick and easy side dish to pair with any main.
• Air Fryer Zucchini: Fresh, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
• Air Fryer Baby Potatoes: Crispy and tender potatoes cooked in minutes.