These Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze come out golden and crispy on the edges, then get tossed in a sweet and tangy glaze. A little Parmesan and fresh parsley finish off these balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts, so they work for the holidays or any weeknight dinner.
2poundsBrussels sproutstrimmed and halved (about 6 cups)
3tablespoonsolive oil
1teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
For the Balsamic Glaze
¼cupbalsamic vinegar
1tablespoonhoney
1tablespoonbrown sugar
½teaspoonDijon mustard
To Finish
¼cupParmesan cheesefreshly grated
2tablespoonsfresh parsleychopped, for garnish
Instructions
Get Started
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
If your baking sheet isn't large enough to hold all the Brussels sprouts in a single layer, prepare two baking sheets.
Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged outer leaves.
2 pounds Brussels sprouts
Cut each sprout in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toss until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Arrange the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.
Roast for about 25 minutes, until the cut sides are deeply golden brown and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
If using two baking sheets, rotate their positions halfway through cooking for more even browning.
Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts roast, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan.
¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, meaning small, slow bubbles rather than a full boil.
Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has slightly thickened and lightly coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from the heat. The glaze will thicken more as it cools.
Toss and Serve
Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl.
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top and gently toss to coat. Add as much or as little glaze as you prefer.
Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and parsley.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Serve warm.
Notes
How to Tell They're Done
The edges should be golden brown and caramelized, and the centers should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Larger Brussels sprouts may need a few extra minutes, so go by the edges and centers rather than the timer alone.
Cooking Tips
Use fresh Brussels sprouts. Choose firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves, and try to buy ones that are close to the same size so they cook evenly. Smaller to medium-sized sprouts tend to roast more evenly.
Don't overcrowd the pan. Giving the Brussels sprouts room lets them roast and caramelize instead of steaming.
The balsamic glaze should lightly coat the back of a spoon when it's ready. Don't reduce it too much, because it thickens further as it cools.
For extra-crispy Brussels sprouts, roast them another 3 to 5 minutes before adding the glaze.
Add the Parmesan while the sprouts are warm. The cheese softens slightly over the top for a savory finish.
Make Ahead
Wash, trim, and halve the Brussels sprouts the night before, then store them in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator.
Make the balsamic glaze up to 3 days ahead and keep it in a glass jar in the refrigerator.
Warm the glaze in a small saucepan or the microwave before drizzling, and loosen it with a splash of water if it has thickened too much.
For the best crispy texture, roast the sprouts shortly before serving.
Substitutions
Honey: maple syrup works for a slightly different flavor.
Brown sugar: use additional honey or maple syrup, although the glaze's flavor and consistency may change slightly.
Dijon mustard: whole-grain mustard works well.
Parmesan cheese: Pecorino Romano gives a saltier, sharper flavor. You can also leave the cheese out entirely.
Olive oil: avocado oil works well for roasting.
Fresh parsley: fresh thyme is another option.
Brussels sprouts: fresh is best. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry before roasting, since they hold more moisture and generally won't get as crispy.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a 400 degrees Fahrenheit oven or an air fryer until warmed through. This helps bring back some of the crispiness.
The microwave works too, but the Brussels sprouts will be softer.