Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan Delight

Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? In this post, I’ll guide you through making Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, a tasty and easy sheet pan recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that brings sweet and savory flavors together perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these Brussels sprouts will impress everyone at your table!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

The main ingredients are simple yet effective. Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor. The olive oil adds richness. Maple syrup gives a sweet touch. Dijon mustard adds a slight zing.

Seasoning and Optional Ingredients

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional)

– 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)

For seasoning, garlic powder enhances the taste. Salt and pepper bring balance. If you like, add pecans for crunch. Dried cranberries add sweetness and color. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar at the end can brighten the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature gives the Brussels sprouts a nice caramelization. Next, rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Look for any yellow or damaged outer leaves and remove them. Cut each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly and soak up the glaze.

Mixing the Glaze

In a large mixing bowl, add the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the Dijon gives a nice tang. Now, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl. Toss them gently until each piece is fully coated with the glaze.

Roasting Process

Spread the glazed Brussels sprouts evenly on a large sheet pan. Make sure they have space between them for even roasting. If you choose, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for added crunch. Roast the Brussels sprouts in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, stir them to ensure they cook evenly. You want them tender and caramelized, with a lovely golden hue.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts

To make the best Brussels sprouts, start with fresh ones. Fresh sprouts taste better and roast evenly. Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts without any brown spots.

Next, adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. Some like it salty, while others prefer a touch of sweetness. Taste the glaze before tossing your sprouts. You can always add more salt or pepper if needed.

Enhancements for Flavor

You can spice it up! Try adding a pinch of cayenne for some heat or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. A bit of cumin can also add a nice depth.

After roasting, consider adding garnishes. Dried cranberries give a sweet touch and brighten the dish. Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds tang and richness. Mix it all together for a delightful finish!

Variations

Alternative Sweeteners

You can change the sweet taste by using honey or agave. Both options work well. They give a nice touch to the Brussels sprouts. Honey will add a floral note while agave stays smooth. Just use the same amount as maple syrup. This gives you a new flavor profile while keeping the dish sweet.

Different Nut Options

If you want to switch nuts, try walnuts or almonds. Both provide crunch and flavor. Walnuts have a rich taste, while almonds are mild. You can chop them up, just like pecans. This change makes the dish fun and tasty, giving it a new twist.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Modifications

To make this dish vegan, ensure all ingredients are plant-based. Use maple syrup, olive oil, and fresh produce. For gluten-free needs, check labels on sauces. Most ingredients are safe, but always confirm. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without worry.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy your meal, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. They will last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool them down before sealing the container. This helps avoid extra moisture.

Reheating Tips

When you want to enjoy your leftovers, the best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and tasty. You can also use a microwave, but the texture may not be as good. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts. This helps prevent them from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time. Start by washing and cutting the Brussels sprouts. Mix the glaze and toss the sprouts in it. After that, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just spread them on the sheet pan and roast. This saves time and makes meal prep easy.

What can I serve with Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts?

These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with roasted chicken or grilled fish. They also go great with quinoa or rice for a complete meal. For a fun twist, add them to a salad with nuts and cheese. The sweet and savory flavor complements many foods.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, this recipe is healthy! Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in vitamins. They are rich in fiber, which helps digestion. Maple syrup adds sweetness without refined sugar. Olive oil provides healthy fats. If you add pecans and cranberries, they add more nutrients and flavor. Overall, this dish is a tasty and nutritious choice.

In this blog post, we explored a tasty recipe for maple glazed Brussels sprouts. You learned about the main ingredients, prep steps, and cooking tips. We also discussed ways to enhance the flavor and make variations for different diets. Lastly, we covered storage options and answered common questions.

Enjoy trying this recipe! These sprouts are easy to make and packed with flavor. They are a fun side dish that everyone will love.