Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

There's something irresistibly delicious about combining sweet and savory flavors in a dish, and this Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe perfectly captures that magic. These Brussels sprouts are caramelized to perfection, with a crisp exterior and tender inside, drizzled with rich maple syrup that enhances their natural sweetness. A hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, while toasted hazelnuts bring a nutty crunch to every bite.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first tried this recipe during a holiday dinner, and it instantly became a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive holiday gathering, this dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

I found this recipe on the Insanely Good Recipes website, and I’m thrilled to share it with you all. It's easy to make and turns humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side dish!

A Brief History of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts have been cultivated in Europe for centuries, gaining their name from the capital city of Belgium. They're part of the cruciferous vegetable family, related to broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. Though they often get a bad reputation for being bitter, roasting them (especially with maple syrup!) transforms their flavor into something truly irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/3 cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prep the Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure they're evenly coated for maximum flavor.
3. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The sprouts should be caramelized and tender around the edges.
4. Add the Maple Syrup: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the Brussels sprouts. If you're using red pepper flakes for a bit of spice, sprinkle them on now. Toss everything to coat well.
5. Finish Roasting: Return the sprouts to the oven and roast for another 5-8 minutes, or until the maple syrup is bubbling and the sprouts are crispy on the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts on top, if using. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Cooking Tips

• Dry the Brussels Sprouts: Make sure to dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly after washing them. Excess water can cause steaming instead of roasting, making them less crispy.
• High-Smoke Point Oil: Olive oil works well here, but you can also use avocado oil or another high-smoke-point oil to ensure your Brussels sprouts get beautifully crispy.
• Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spacing the Brussels sprouts out evenly allows the hot air to circulate, giving them a caramelized exterior.

Pairing Suggestions

These maple-roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a hearty fall salad. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a creamy butternut squash soup or a savory lentil dish. The nutty crunch from the hazelnuts adds a delightful contrast, making this side dish a hit at any dinner table.

Variations

• Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but to make it vegan, just double-check that your maple syrup is vegan-friendly.
• Spicy Twist: For those who love a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even drizzle some sriracha or chili oil on top for an extra kick.
• Nut-Free Option: If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the hazelnuts. The Brussels sprouts are delicious enough on their own!

Give this quick homemade Brussels sprouts recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out! Don’t forget to hit the follow button to stay updated with more tasty recipes like this one. Happy cooking!