Irresistible Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe for Dinner

There’s something magical about the smell of caramelized Brussels sprouts wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: golden, crispy edges that crackle when you bite into them, releasing a sweet and savory explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. Who knew that these little green orbs could transform from the misunderstood side vegetable into the star of any meal? Just thinking about it makes me want to dive headfirst into a bowl and never come up for air.

I still remember the first time I served caramelized Brussels sprouts at a family dinner. My uncle, who usually turns his nose up at anything resembling a vegetable, took one bite and declared them “the best things since sliced bread.” That’s when I realized these beauties weren’t just for health fanatics; they were for everyone! Perfect as a side dish during holiday gatherings or as a sneaky way to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe will make you the culinary hero of your household.

My friends still rave about those Brussels sprouts, claiming they’re now “Brussels sprout converts” thanks to my cooking skills.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances the richness and helps achieve that desirable crispiness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the sprouts.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that complements the caramelization beautifully.
• Maple Syrup: Just a drizzle elevates the sweetness, balancing out any bitterness from the sprouts.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

Prep Your Sprouts: Start by trimming the stem ends of each Brussels sprout and removing any yellow leaves. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they are clean before cooking.

Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the clean Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to ensure they are evenly coated—think of it as giving them a luxurious spa treatment!

Roast Away!: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 20–25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Add Sweetness with Balsamic Vinegar and Maple Syrup: During the last five minutes of roasting, drizzle balsamic vinegar and maple syrup over the sprouts. This step will make your kitchen smell heavenly while adding depth to their flavor profile.

Final Toss and Serve!: Once roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and give them one final toss on the baking sheet. Serve immediately while they’re still warm—trust me; they taste best straight from the oven!

These caramelized Brussels sprouts will not only impress but also leave you craving more with each mouthful. Give yourself permission to indulge; after all, vegetables can be fun too!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the Brussels sprouts at high heat for crispiness, then add the caramelization step with sugar for that sweet finish.

Add Your Touch

Try adding balsamic vinegar for tang or sprinkle some bacon bits for extra flavor! You can also toss in nuts for crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.

The first time I made caramelized Brussels sprouts, my friends couldn’t believe they were eating veggies! They devoured them all and even asked for seconds—who knew greens could be such a hit?

FAQ

How do you achieve perfect caramelization?

Use high heat and a bit of sugar to enhance browning and flavor.

Can I prepare these Brussels sprouts in advance?

Yes, you can prep them ahead of time and roast just before serving.

What goes well with caramelized Brussels sprouts?

They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grains, or even a hearty pasta dish.

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Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

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Caramelized Brussels sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic vegetable, transforming their natural bitterness into a sweet and savory treat. With golden-brown, crispy edges and a tender heart, these sprouts are perfect for any occasion. Elevate your weeknight dinners or wow your guests at holiday gatherings with this simple yet impressive dish that everyone will love.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow leaves; rinse under cold water.
3. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
6. In the last five minutes of roasting, drizzle balsamic vinegar and maple syrup over the sprouts.
7. Toss again after removing from the oven and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped bacon or nuts before roasting. To achieve maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.