How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze for Thanksgiving

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are the perfect sweet, tangy, and crispy Thanksgiving side dish. They are caramelized, slightly crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, with a rich balsamic reduction that brings out their natural sweetness.

This easy, foolproof recipe will turn even Brussels sprout skeptics into fans. Whether served alongside turkey, stuffing, or mashed potatoes, these balsamic-roasted Brussels sprouts will add a flavorful, nutritious touch to your Thanksgiving table!

Looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish for your Thanksgiving feast? Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are the perfect combination of crispy, caramelized edges and a sweet, tangy glaze, making them a crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday table.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make roasted Brussels sprouts step by step, including roasting tips, seasoning variations, and how to achieve the perfect balsamic glaze. Whether you’re serving them on their own or with toasted nuts, bacon, or cranberries, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get roasting!

1. Why You’ll Love These Roasted Brussels Sprouts

✔ Crispy & Caramelized – Roasting enhances their flavor and texture.
✔ Sweet & Tangy Balsamic Glaze – Balances out the natural bitterness.
✔ Easy to Make – Just toss, roast, and drizzle!
✔ Perfect for Thanksgiving – A great contrast to heavy, creamy dishes.
✔ Customizable – Add nuts, cheese, or bacon for extra flavor.

The Secret to Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Use high heat (425°F/220°C) – Helps them get crispy, not soggy.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan – Spread them out for even roasting.
3. Roast cut-side down first – Gives a beautiful golden crust.
4. Add the balsamic glaze at the end – Keeps them crispy and flavorful.

2. Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

For the Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• ½ cup crispy bacon bits (for a smoky, savory touch)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
• ¼ cup dried cranberries (adds a sweet contrast)
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (for a creamy finish)

3. How to Make the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, then slice them in half.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Spread them cut-side down on a lined baking sheet.
2. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. While Brussels sprouts roast, heat balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Toss & Serve

1. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts.
2. Toss gently to coat, then sprinkle with optional toppings like bacon, nuts, or cheese.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

4. Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

🔥 Cut them evenly – Ensures they roast at the same rate.
🔥 Roast at high heat – Creates crispy edges and a caramelized texture.
🔥 Use parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
🔥 Don’t add the balsamic glaze too early – Adding it before roasting can make them soggy.
🔥 For extra crispiness – Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

5. Variations & Customizations

Make It Spicy

🌶️ Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze.

Make It Smoky

🔥 Use smoked paprika or add crispy bacon bits.

Make It Nutty

🥜 Sprinkle with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans before serving.

Make It Sweet

🍯 Add extra maple syrup for a slightly sweeter glaze.

6. How to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time

✔ Roast the Brussels sprouts 1 day in advance – Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
✔ Make the balsamic glaze ahead – Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.
✔ Assemble just before serving – Toss sprouts with warm glaze for the best texture.

7. Best Thanksgiving Pairings for These Brussels Sprouts

🦃 Roast Turkey – A tangy contrast to rich turkey meat.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Balances creamy dishes with crispiness.
🍞 Savory Stuffing – Complements the herbs and flavors of stuffing.
🍷 Pinot Noir or Chardonnay – Pairs well with balsamic and roasted flavors.

8. Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

❌ Brussels Sprouts Are Soggy? – The pan was overcrowded; spread them out!
❌ Not Crispy Enough? – Roast at a higher temperature (425°F or higher).
❌ Too Bitter? – Roasting helps, but adding honey or maple syrup balances bitterness.
❌ Balsamic Glaze Too Runny? – Simmer longer to thicken, or add ½ teaspoon cornstarch.
❌ Burnt Brussels Sprouts? – Check halfway through roasting and reduce heat if needed.

9. Leftover Ideas for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

🥗 Brussels Sprouts Salad – Toss leftovers with arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts.
🍕 Brussels Sprouts Pizza – Use as a topping with mozzarella and balsamic drizzle.
🍳 Brussels Sprouts Breakfast Hash – Sauté with eggs and sweet potatoes.
🥪 Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich – Layer in a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but they contain more moisture. Roast them straight from frozen at 450°F (230°C) for extra crispiness.

2. Can I make this recipe without balsamic vinegar?

Yes! Try apple cider vinegar + honey or lemon juice + maple syrup as a substitute.

3. How do I make Brussels sprouts extra crispy?

✔ Roast at 425°F+ and use a large baking sheet (don’t overcrowd).
✔ Toss in extra olive oil before roasting.
✔ Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a crispy finish.

4. How do I keep Brussels sprouts warm for serving?

Keep them in a warm oven (200°F/95°C) until ready to serve.

5. Can I double this recipe for a large crowd?

Yes! Use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

6. Can I add cheese?

Yes! Parmesan, goat cheese, or feta add a creamy, salty contrast.

7. Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Sauté Brussels sprouts in a skillet over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.

8. What’s the best way to cut Brussels sprouts?

Trim the ends, slice in half, and remove any loose outer leaves.

9. Can I roast these with other vegetables?

Yes! Add carrots, sweet potatoes, or red onions for extra variety.

10. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Yes! Just warm it slightly before drizzling over the sprouts.