Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts (Perfect for Christmas Dinner)

Crispy, caramelized, and kissed with sweet balsamic glaze, these Brussels sprouts make the ultimate festive side dish. You’ll love how quickly they roast up golden and flavorful. Perfect for a cozy Christmas table or any winter dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A festive side dish with simple ingredients

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts feel special enough for Christmas dinner, and this easy recipe shows how simple ingredients can create bold, festive flavor. olive oil, honey, and vinegar. It’s proof that simple ingredients can deliver bold holiday flavors.

Perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors

The sprouts roast until crispy and tender, then get tossed in a mix of balsamic and honey. The glaze clings to the leaves, giving every bite that sweet-tangy snap alongside a savory, nutty depth.

Quick and easy—ready in 30 minutes

With only 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, this dish fits into even the busiest Christmas cooking schedule. While your roast rests, these sprouts finish up golden and glossy, ready to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts – how to choose the best ones

Pick small, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves, since the best Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts start with fresh produce. These roast evenly and develop a sweeter flavor. Avoid large or yellowing sprouts, which tend to taste bitter.

Olive oil, salt, and pepper – simple roasting essentials

Olive oil helps the leaves crisp up, while salt and pepper bring out natural flavor. Don’t skip the basics; they make the sprouts shine before the glaze even hits.

Balsamic vinegar or glaze – flavor variations explained

You can use store-bought balsamic glaze for convenience or reduce vinegar on the stove until thickened. Either way, the tang balances the earthy sprouts beautifully.

Honey – natural sweetness and possible substitutions

Honey rounds out the tang, but you can swap in maple syrup for a woodsy twist or brown sugar for deeper sweetness. Each option works with the balsamic glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the sprouts – trimming, cutting, and drying tips

Trim the bottoms, peel off any dry leaves, and slice each sprout in half. Pat them dry with a towel so they roast instead of steam. This step is key for crispy edges.

Roasting method – temperature, timing, and pan placement

Heat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet. Toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them cut side down in a single layer. Roast 20 minutes, until golden and tender.

Adding the glaze – how to coat for best caramelization

Once roasted, return the sprouts to the bowl and toss with balsamic and honey, creating glossy Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts that taste as good as they look. The warm sprouts soak up the glaze, clinging to every crispy leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Using frozen Brussels sprouts – adjustments for texture and flavor

Thaw frozen sprouts fully, pat them dry, and follow the same roasting steps. They won’t caramelize quite as deeply as fresh, but still turn out flavorful and satisfying.

Tips for the Best Results

Don’t overcrowd the pan

If sprouts are too close, they steam instead of roast, and your Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts won’t turn out as crisp and caramelized. Use two sheets if needed for crispy edges on every sprout.

Place cut side down for golden edges

This trick guarantees caramelized bottoms while the outer leaves crisp and curl in the heat. It’s the secret to texture contrast.

How to store and reheat leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, so they crisp back up instead of turning soggy.

When to Buy Brussels Sprouts

Peak season for freshness and flavor

Brussels sprouts are sweetest from late fall through early winter, making them perfect for Christmas dinner. Cold weather enhances their flavor naturally.

Storage tips to keep them crisp

Store unwashed sprouts in the fridge in a breathable bag. Wait to rinse until right before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

How to Make a Simple Balsamic Glaze

Quick homemade method with vinegar

Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Simmer until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon. The result is thick, tangy, and slightly sweet.

Store-bought vs homemade glaze

Store-bought glaze saves time and works well, though it’s often sweeter. Homemade glaze gives you control over thickness and flavor, and it feels extra special for holiday meals.

Nutrition Information

Calories and macros per serving

Each serving has about 184 calories with 19g carbs, 5g protein, and 11g fat. It’s filling but still light compared to many holiday sides.

Vitamins and minerals you’ll get from Brussels sprouts

Sprouts pack fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Just one serving gives you over 140% of your daily vitamin C needs, making them both tasty and nutrient-rich.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Recipes to Try

If you love festive side dishes, try my Bacon Brussels Sprouts for a smoky twist, or serve them alongside these Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts for variety. You can also browse more Christmas Dinner Recipes for cozy, crowd-pleasing ideas.

Conclusion

Why this recipe deserves a spot on your Christmas table

These Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts deliver the perfect mix of crispy, tangy, and sweet in just 30 minutes, making them a must-have side dish for Christmas dinner. They look festive and taste amazing next to holiday mains.

Encouragement to try and share with loved ones

Make them once, and you’ll find yourself roasting sprouts long after Christmas. Share them at your holiday table, and watch everyone go back for seconds. For even more seasonal inspiration, you can check out my collection on Pinterest.

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