Honey Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts offer a delicious balance of savory roasted flavors with a touch of sweet honey glaze. This simple side dish transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a crispy, caramelized treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. The recipe uses straightforward cooking techniques and common pantry ingredients, making it an accessible and crowd-pleasing vegetable dish for any occasion.
If you’re looking for a healthy yet flavorful vegetable side that requires minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of roasted, slightly charred Brussels sprouts with sweet honey and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor profile
- Minimal prep time lets you focus on other parts of the meal
- Ingredients are simple and likely already in your kitchen
- A nutritious, vegetable-based side that complements many dishes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming off the tough stem ends and removing any discolored or loose outer leaves. If you have larger sprouts, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting.
In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent steaming and encourage crisp edges.
Roast the sprouts for about 20 minutes, or until they start to brown and become tender.
While the Brussels sprouts roast, whisk together minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl to create the glaze.
Remove the sprouts from the oven and immediately drizzle the honey garlic mixture over them. Toss gently to coat each sprout in the glaze.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and coat the sprouts in a sticky, flavorful layer.
Once done, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for optimal crispness and texture, frozen sprouts can be used if thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture.
How can I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming soggy?
Make sure the sprouts are completely dry before tossing with oil and seasoning. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so air circulates freely for roasting.
Can I substitute the honey in the glaze?
Yes, pure maple syrup is a great natural alternative that works well with the garlic and soy sauce flavors.
You Must Know
Cut Brussels sprouts into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of the sprouts and the heat distribution in your oven. The glaze thickens and caramelizes during the final roasting stage, creating a delicious coating.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat while maintaining the crisp texture, warm the Brussels sprouts in an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave. Freezing is not recommended, as it tends to negatively affect the texture and flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are an effortless yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and umami-rich soy sauce enhances the natural flavors of the sprouts, while roasting adds a satisfying crispness. This versatile side dish complements everything from roasted meats to vegetarian mains and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Variations and Flavor Enhancements
This honey garlic roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:
- Add crunch with nuts or seeds: Toss in toasted pecans, sliced almonds, or sesame seeds during the last few minutes of roasting for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Use balsamic vinegar: Swap out the soy sauce for balsamic vinegar to create a tangy glaze that complements the honey’s sweetness.
- Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or chives over the finished dish for bright herbal notes.
- Parmesan finish: Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top right before serving to add a savory, nutty layer.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts make a fantastic side dish to many meals. Consider pairing them with:
- Fish dishes, especially salmon or cod, as the sweetness complements seafood nicely.
- Grain bowls featuring quinoa, brown rice, or farro with a protein of choice for a wholesome meal.
- Vegetarian or vegan spreads, alongside dishes like lentil loaf or stuffed peppers, for a satisfying plant-based option.
- Holiday meals and special occasions, adding variety and color to your festive table.
Nutritional Benefits
Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse. They are low in calories but rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting them preserves their nutrients while enhancing their flavor. Garlic provides immune-boosting compounds and adds to the overall health benefits. Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, and honey, used in moderation, offers natural sweetness and antioxidants.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If sprouts are burnt on the edges but raw inside: Cut them into smaller pieces for quicker, more even cooking, and ensure the oven temperature is accurate.
- If sprouts are mushy: Avoid overcrowding the pan and make sure the sprouts are dry before roasting.
- If glaze is too runny: Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before tossing with the sprouts, or cook it briefly on the stove to thicken before adding.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a simple way to elevate your vegetable side dishes. The natural caramelization from roasting combined with the sweet-savory glaze results in a dish that’s bursting with flavor and pleasing texture. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan.