Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Honey Glaze and Bacon

Prepare to fall in love with these incredible Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts! They are meticulously roasted to achieve that perfect crisp exterior, then coated in a luscious, savory-sweet balsamic and honey glaze. With the added depth of crispy bacon bits and aromatic garlic, this recipe transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side dish. Perfect for any meal, from a simple weeknight dinner to a festive holiday spread, these irresistible sprouts will undoubtedly become a new family favorite.

These crispy glazed Brussels sprouts are more than just a vegetable side; they are an experience. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and garlicky flavors, complemented by the smoky crunch of bacon. The best part? This mouth-watering balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it incredibly convenient for busy schedules. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply elevate your dinner, this recipe promises delicious results.

Looking to round out your meal with more vibrant roasted vegetables? Explore these other delightful options to add to your weekly menu:

• Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus with Parmesan
• Oven Roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes
• Roasted Green Beans and Carrots

Why You’ll Love These Brussels Sprouts

This recipe isn’t just about cooking Brussels sprouts; it’s about transforming them into an irresistible dish that even skeptics will adore. Here’s why these balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon are destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the exquisite honey balsamic glaze. It perfectly balances the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with sweetness and tang, creating a truly addictive taste. Combined with savory bacon and fragrant garlic, every mouthful is an explosion of deliciousness.
• Effortlessly Easy: Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you – this recipe is incredibly simple to follow. It requires minimal kitchen tools and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Remarkably Quick: Who said delicious side dishes have to take hours? This entire recipe, from prep to plate, can be completed in approximately 30-40 minutes. It’s the ideal last-minute addition to any dinner, ensuring you get amazing flavor without the wait.
• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You’ll likely find most of the ingredients for this recipe already stocked in your pantry and fridge. This makes it a convenient choice for impromptu meals or when you need a quick side without a special grocery run.
• The Ultimate Holiday Side: With its impressive flavor and relatively quick prep time, these crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebratory dinner. They add a sophisticated yet comforting touch to your festive spread.

How to Select Perfect Brussels Sprouts

The secret to creating the most delectable and crispy glazed Brussels sprouts starts at the grocery store. Choosing high-quality sprouts ensures the best flavor and texture. Here’s what to look for when picking your bunch:

• Vibrant Green Color: Always aim for Brussels sprouts that boast a bright, uniform green color. Avoid any with yellowing leaves, brown spots, or bruises, as these indicate they are past their prime or have been mishandled.
• Firm and Compact Heads: Give the sprouts a gentle squeeze. They should feel firm and heavy for their size, with tightly packed leaves. Loose or soft sprouts may be old or spoiled.
• Opt for Smaller Sprouts: Generally, smaller Brussels sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender than their larger counterparts. While large ones are fine, smaller ones often roast more evenly and achieve crispiness faster.
• Consistent Size for Even Cooking: To ensure all your Brussels sprouts cook at the same rate and reach optimal crispiness simultaneously, try to select a bunch with similarly sized sprouts. This prevents some from burning while others remain undercooked.

Proper Cleaning and Cutting Techniques

Proper preparation is crucial for delicious roasted Brussels sprouts. Follow these simple steps to clean and cut your sprouts efficiently, ensuring they’re ready to absorb all that amazing glaze:

1. Thorough Rinse: Place all your Brussels sprouts in a colander and rinse them under cool running water. Gently rub them to remove any dirt or debris that might be clinging to the outer leaves.
2. Remove Discolored Leaves: After washing, carefully inspect each sprout. Peel off and discard any outer leaves that appear yellowed, brown, wilted, or otherwise discolored. These leaves can have an unpleasant texture or flavor.
3. Trim the Base: Using a sharp paring knife, carefully trim a very thin slice from the base (stem end) of each Brussels sprout. This part is often tougher and can be discolored. Be sure not to cut too much, as you want to keep the sprout intact.
4. Halve for Even Cooking: For optimal crispiness and to allow the glaze to penetrate thoroughly, cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise through the trimmed stem. If you notice any significant discoloration or damage on the inside, discard that part of the sprout.

Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions

This balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts recipe shines with a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful substitution ideas:

• Fresh Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show! Pick fresh, firm, and bright green sprouts for the best results. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds, trimmed and halved.
• Olive Oil: Essential for roasting, it helps achieve that golden-brown crispness. Extra virgin olive oil offers the best flavor.
• Kosher Salt: All of my recipes are tested with Morton kosher salt unless noted otherwise. Its larger flakes and pure flavor make it superior for everyday cooking. If you’re using table salt, reduce the amount by about half, as it’s finer and saltier by volume. I highly recommend investing in kosher salt for your kitchen!
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and aroma. Adjust to your taste.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits provide a savory, smoky contrast to the sweet glaze, and the reserved bacon grease forms the flavorful base for our glaze. You’ll need about 5 strips. For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the bacon and use additional olive oil for sautéing the garlic.
• Garlic: Freshly pressed or finely minced garlic is non-negotiable for this glaze. It infuses a deep, aromatic flavor. 2-3 cloves should do the trick.
• Balsamic Vinegar: The tangy heart of the glaze. Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best depth of flavor. A quarter cup is ideal for balancing the sweetness.
• Honey: This provides the perfect sticky sweetness to the glaze, complementing the balsamic vinegar beautifully. Two tablespoons work wonderfully. For a vegan alternative, substitute with maple syrup.

A complete list of ingredients and precise amounts can be found on the recipe card below.

Mastering the Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts Method

Achieving perfectly crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with a glossy glaze is easier than you think! This section breaks down the process into a quick overview and then a detailed step-by-step guide, ensuring success every time.

Quick Overview

• Prepare and roast Brussels sprouts until deeply browned and tender.
• While sprouts roast, cook bacon until crispy, setting aside the bacon and some of its grease.
• Sauté garlic in bacon grease, then add balsamic vinegar and honey to create the sweet and tangy glaze.
• Toss the roasted sprouts with the thickened glaze and crumbled bacon.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these instructions carefully to create the ultimate Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts:

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, sturdy baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. For maximum crispiness, place the empty baking sheet into the oven as it preheats. This step ensures the pan is hot when the sprouts hit it, promoting immediate searing and browning.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cleaned and halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated. This seasoning is key for flavor development during roasting.

Step 3: Carefully remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven. Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the hot baking sheet, making sure to place them cut-side down. Work quickly to prevent the pan from cooling down too much. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches to ensure optimal crisping.

Step 4: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. The goal is for the sprouts to become tender on the inside, with beautifully browned and crispy edges on the outside. You might need to gently flip them once halfway through if one side is browning faster than the other, but keeping them cut-side down for most of the cooking is crucial.

Step 5: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare your bacon. Fry the 5 pieces of bacon in a separate pan over medium heat until they are perfectly crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. This will ensure your bacon remains delightfully crunchy. Set aside.

Step 6: After removing the bacon, carefully drain most of the bacon grease from the pan. You want to leave approximately 1 teaspoon of the flavorful grease in the pan. This small amount will form the rich base for our delicious glaze.

Step 7: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 2-3 cloves of pressed or finely minced garlic to the reserved bacon grease in the pan. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 8: Pour the ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of honey into the pan with the sautéed garlic. Stir well to combine these wonderful flavors.

Step 9: Bring the balsamic and honey mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes, or until the glaze has visibly thickened and reduced slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 10: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Push all the roasted sprouts to the center of the baking sheet, forming a neat pile. Pour the entire balsamic honey glaze evenly over them.

Step 11: Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss the Brussels sprouts until each one is thoroughly coated in the glistening, thick glaze. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 12: Finally, crumble the reserved crispy fried bacon directly over the glazed Brussels sprouts. Serve immediately while warm, savoring the incredible combination of textures and flavors. Enjoy your perfectly crispy glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon!

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

These crispy glazed Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of main courses. Their savory-sweet profile makes them a welcome addition to almost any plate. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Garnish with Flair: For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, consider garnishing your finished sprouts with:

• Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle adds a subtle kick of heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze.
• Chopped Chives or Parsley: Fresh herbs introduce a pop of color and a delicate, fresh flavor.
• Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): Toasted pepitas offer a delightful nutty crunch.
• Shaved Parmesan: A final dusting of salty Parmesan cheese adds another layer of umami.

Perfect Protein Pairings: I love serving these honey-glazed Brussels sprouts alongside protein-forward mains. Their rich flavor complements a wide range of meats and poultry, creating a deliciously satisfying and balanced meal. Here are a few protein main dish ideas:

• Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings: The tang and sweetness of the sprouts beautifully cut through the richness of BBQ wings.
• Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops: The flavors of the glaze echo the sweetness in the pork chops, creating a cohesive meal.
• Easy Tomato Basil Chicken: The vibrant freshness of this chicken dish is a wonderful counterpoint to the deep flavors of the sprouts.
• Roast Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing, especially for holiday dinners.
• Seared Salmon: The slight sweetness of the glaze pairs surprisingly well with the richness of salmon.
• Steak or Beef Tenderloin: For a more indulgent meal, these sprouts offer a sophisticated vegetable component.

These sprouts also stand alone as a fantastic vegetarian side dish (if you omit the bacon) or can be incorporated into grain bowls or salads for added texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Ultra Crispy Sprouts

Achieving that coveted crispy texture on your Brussels sprouts can be tricky, but with these expert tips, you’ll nail it every time. These principles apply to any roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, ensuring golden-brown perfection:

• The Power of the Preheat: This is a game-changer! Always preheat your empty baking sheet in the oven along with the oven itself. When the sprouts hit a searing hot pan, they immediately begin to caramelize and crisp up, rather than steam. This step significantly reduces cooking time and maximizes crispiness.
• Give Them Space: Overcrowding the baking sheet is the most common culprit for soggy, rather than crispy, Brussels sprouts. When vegetables are packed too closely, they release steam, which gets trapped and prevents browning. Ensure there’s plenty of space between each sprout. If you’re doubling or tripling the recipe, use multiple baking sheets or roast in batches to give every sprout enough room to breathe and crisp up.
• Cut-Side Down is Key: For truly caramelized and crispy edges, always place your halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet. This allows the flat surface to make maximum contact with the hot pan, trapping heat and moisture, which helps the inside soften while the outside develops a beautiful char and crispness.
• High Heat for High Crispness: Brussels sprouts love high heat! Roasting at a temperature of 400°F (200°C) or higher is essential for achieving optimal caramelization and crispiness. Lower temperatures will lead to softer, steamed sprouts rather than the desired crunchy texture. Don’t be afraid of the heat; it’s your friend here.
• Dry Sprouts are Crispy Sprouts: After washing, ensure your Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dry before tossing them with olive oil. Excess moisture will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them, hindering the crisping process. Use a salad spinner or paper towels to get them as dry as possible.

Additions and Flavor Variations

While this crispy glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t hesitate to experiment with these additions and variations to customize the dish to your taste or dietary needs:

• Parmesan Perfection: For an extra boost of savory, salty flavor, consider adding finely grated Parmesan cheese. You can toss it with the Brussels sprouts during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting, or sprinkle it on top after they’ve been coated in the glaze. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious, melty topping that is simply irresistible.
• Mix with Other Veggies: This versatile balsamic glaze isn’t just for Brussels sprouts! It works beautifully with other sturdy vegetables like cauliflower florets, broccoli florets, or even chopped carrots. Feel free to mix these veggies in with your Brussels sprouts, adjusting cooking times slightly as needed for uniformity. This is a great way to add variety and nutrients to your meal.
• Sweet Swap with Maple Syrup: If you’re looking for a slightly different sweetness profile or a vegan option, substitute the honey in the glaze with pure maple syrup. Maple syrup offers a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with balsamic vinegar. If you opt for maple syrup and skip the bacon, this recipe easily becomes a delicious vegan side dish.
• A Touch of Spice: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the glaze as it simmers, or sprinkled over the finished sprouts, will provide a delightful spicy kick that complements the sweet and tangy notes.
• Fresh Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme alongside the garlic in the glaze for an additional layer of aromatic complexity. A tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs added during the last minute of simmering will infuse the glaze with incredible fragrance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even seasoned cooks have questions about getting Brussels sprouts just right. Here are some common queries about making crispy glazed Brussels sprouts:

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Easy Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Brianna May

5 from 9 votes

These Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts are to die for! They’re made with a delicious balsamic and honey glaze and crisped to perfection in the oven. Serve these yummy sprouts alongside a protein for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Equipment

• Large Baking Sheets
• Kitchen Tongs
• Large Bowl
• Small Saucepan (for glaze)

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed & halved
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt*
• ▢ freshly ground black pepper
• ▢ 5 strips bacon, plus 1 teaspoon reserved grease

Balsamic Glaze

• ▢ 2-3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced finely
• ▢ 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons honey

Instructions 

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and place it in the oven to preheat.
• In a large bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.
  1 1/2 pounds brussels sprouts, trimmed & halved, 2 Tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt*, freshly ground black pepper
• Carefully place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet. Work quickly to keep the pan hot.
• Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until deeply browned and crispy.
• While the Brussels sprouts roast, fry the bacon in a separate pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside the crispy bacon.
  5 strips bacon, plus 1 teaspoon reserved grease
• Drain most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving approximately 1 teaspoon in the pan.
• Over medium-low heat, sauté the minced garlic in the reserved bacon grease for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
  2-3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced finely
• Add the balsamic vinegar and honey to the garlic in the pan.
  1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 Tablespoons honey
• Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
• Once the Brussels sprouts are done, push them to the center of the baking sheet. Pour the thickened balsamic honey glaze evenly over them.
• Toss the Brussels sprouts gently with tongs until they are all beautifully coated in the sticky glaze.
• Crumble the crispy fried bacon over the top of the glazed Brussels sprouts. Serve immediately and enjoy warm.

Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment below!

Notes

• Kosher Salt: All of my recipes are tested with Morton kosher salt unless noted otherwise. It is the best salt for everyday cooking because of its size and flavor. If using table salt, the amount should be reduced by about half.
• Preheat the pan: This essential tip helps save you time and ensures the sprouts cook more evenly and achieve maximum crispiness. When you turn on the oven, simply pop the baking sheet in and let it heat up as you prep the Brussels sprouts.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet: For the crispiest roasted Brussels sprouts, ensure there is ample space between the sprouts. Overcrowding the sheet can lead to non-crispy, steamed, and not-caramelized sprouts. If you’re doubling or tripling the recipe, you may need to use multiple baking sheets or cook the sprouts in batches.
• Place cut side down: This critical step helps create caramelized, crispy, and perfectly browned Brussels sprouts. When the halved Brussels sprouts cook cut side down, the direct heat promotes browning, allowing the inside to soften and the outside to crisp up properly.
• Roast at a high temperature: These Brussels sprouts should be cooked at a higher temperature (425°F or 220°C) until golden-brown for the best results. This high temperature allows the sprouts to caramelize and crisp efficiently.
• Ensure sprouts are dry: After washing, thoroughly dry your Brussels sprouts with a salad spinner or paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
• Adjust glaze consistency: If your glaze seems too thick, you can add a tiny splash of water or balsamic vinegar to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for an additional minute or two until it reaches the desired consistency.

Nutrition

Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 649mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 15g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is an estimate based on the ingredients and methods described. It should only be used as an approximation.