Name: Delicious Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels Sprouts (trimmed and halved); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado oil); 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (honey can be substituted but adjust amount); 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice; 1 tablespoon Fresh Orange Zest (avoid dried zest); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (coconut aminos can be used); 2 cloves Garlic (fresh minced)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in the kitchen, the earthy aroma of Brussels sprouts roasting in the oven intertwined with the sweet scent of maple. Who would have thought these little green gems could create a frenzy of flavor? With my Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, I’ve found the secret to converting any skeptics of this often-overlooked veggie into avid fans. This easy, 30-minute recipe not only elevates your side dish game but also showcases a delightful balance of sweet and citrus that pairs beautifully with just about everything. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick and satisfying dish, this recipe promises to impress without the fuss. Are you ready to make Brussels sprouts the star of your table?

b1bda495 3210 483a 94be b8fcf1155a66tr qec3kf

Why Will You Love These Brussels Sprouts?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet maple syrup and zesty orange creates an unforgettable taste that makes even the biggest skeptics fall in love.

Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Nutrient-Packed: Rich in fiber and vitamins C and K, these Brussels sprouts are guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy with every bite.

Versatile Pairing: They’re a perfect accompaniment to any main dish, like roasted chicken, or even enjoyed as a standalone breakfast delight topped with a fried egg.

Stunning Presentation: Their shiny, sticky glaze gives these sprouts a beautiful shine that elevates your table setting and impresses everyone!

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Trimmed and halved for optimal caramelization and a hearty base.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and enhances browning; avocado oil is a great substitute.
• Salt – Essential for balancing the glaze’s sweetness; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Pepper – Adds a light kick; freshly ground pepper provides the best flavor.

For the Glaze
• Maple Syrup – Imparts sweetness and depth; honey can substitute but adjust the amount due to its higher sweetness.
• Fresh Orange Juice – Provides acidity and brightness, crucial for balancing the overall flavor.
• Fresh Orange Zest – Intensifies the citrus notes; avoid dried zest as it doesn’t give the desired fresh taste.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami; use coconut aminos for a soy-free option (add a little salt for flavor).
• Garlic – Introduces depth and aroma; fresh minced garlic is key for the best results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for achieving that perfectly caramelized exterior on your Brussels sprouts. While the oven warms up, prepare your ingredients so they are ready to go when you need them.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and gently dry them with a clean kitchen towel. Trim the ends and slice each sprout in half, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Visual cues show you they should be bright green and firm, which means they are ready for roasting.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Coat them thoroughly for maximum flavor and ensure they are shiny and slick. This step is important for creating that delicious caramelization as they roast in the oven.

Step 4: Roast the Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet, making sure they’re in a single layer for proper roasting. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should start to brown and become tender.

Step 5: Stir and Continue Roasting
After the initial roasting, remove the baking sheet and stir the Brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking. Return them to the oven for another 10 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and a fork-tender texture that indicates they are perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together maple syrup, fresh orange juice, fresh orange zest, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a medium bowl. This glaze is key to the Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, combining sweet and savory notes that will elevate the dish.

Step 7: Toss with Glaze
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, carefully remove them from the oven. Pour the glaze over the hot sprouts and toss to coat each piece evenly. The vibrant colors and sticky appearance will make your mouth water in anticipation.

Step 8: Final Roast for Caramelization
Return the coated Brussels sprouts to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes. Watch closely as the glaze begins to bubble and caramelize, coating the sprouts with a shiny finish. The fragrance of orange and maple will fill your kitchen, signaling that they’re almost ready.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. If desired, garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch. These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed immediately while still warm and glossy.

b1bda495 3210 483a 94be b8fcf1155a66bl fzjzte

Expert Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Dry Thoroughly: Always dry Brussels sprouts completely before roasting; excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of caramelizing, ruining the texture.
Roast in Batches: If making a larger quantity, roast in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This ensures even browning for your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts.
Watch the Glaze: Keep an eye on the sprouts while they glaze; bubbling glazes can quickly turn to burnt if left unattended—don’t let that sweet maple flavor go to waste!
Even Sizing: Halve all Brussels sprouts uniformly; this allows for consistent cooking and guarantees that each sprout enjoys that perfect caramelization.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh orange juice and zest for the glaze; it truly elevates the flavor of the dish. Dried zest won’t give you the same bright notes.
Perfect Pairings: Consider complementing your Brussels sprouts with nutty sides like quinoa or wheat berries, enhancing not just flavor but also the meal’s nutritional benefits.

What to Serve with Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your meal by pairing these vibrant and flavorful Brussels sprouts with a variety of delicious sides and beverages.

Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing, the savory notes of roasted chicken beautifully complement the sweet and tangy sprouts, creating a balanced plate.
Quinoa Salad: This nutty salad adds texture and a refreshing element, making it a wholesome companion that enhances the citrusy flavors of the sprouts.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, the soothing texture of mashed potatoes contrasts wonderfully with the crispy sprouts, offering a hearty addition to your meal.
Honey-Balsamic Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of these glazed carrots mirrors the maple flavor in the Brussels sprouts, providing a colorful and complementary side dish.
Crispy Bacon: For an indulgent twist, crispy bacon bits or lardons sprinkled atop the sprouts offer a delightful crunch and a smoky flavor that enhances their sweetness.
Sangria: A refreshing glass of fruit-filled sangria works as a delightful drink accompaniment, with fruity notes that harmonize with the orange in the glaze.
Cheese Board: Pair with a variety of cheeses like goat or blue cheese, which provide a creamy contrast to the sprouts, elevating your dining experience with complex flavors.

Pairing these ideas will not only round out your meal but ensure that your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts shine as the star of the table!

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and trim the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the glaze (maple syrup, orange juice, zest, soy sauce, and garlic) ahead of time and refrigerate it for quick access. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast them for about 20 minutes, then add the glaze for the final 5 minutes in the oven. This way, you’ll serve a delicious side dish with minimal effort, just as delightful as if made fresh!

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and make them your own!

Honey Substitute: Use honey in place of maple syrup, but remember to reduce the amount slightly for balance.
A drizzle of honey can add a lovely floral note, enhancing the sweetness beautifully.
Coconut Aminos: For a soy-free version, swap out soy sauce for coconut aminos.
This will maintain the umami flavor while adding a hint of sweetness, perfect for those with dietary preferences.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes for a bit of heat and flavor contrast.
This little twist elevates the dish, introducing a warming element that surprises the palate.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and richness.
The crunch complements the tender sprouts and adds a gourmet touch that feels indulgent.
Mixed Veggies: Combine Brussels sprouts with other roasted vegetables like butternut squash or carrots.
This colorful medley enhances the dish visually and nutritionally, making it a hearty side.
Citrus Medley: Experiment with different citrus juices, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique twist.
Each citrus brings its own bright notes, adding complexity to your glaze that keeps things interesting.
Maple Chipotle: Mix a bit of chipotle in adobo sauce into your glaze for a smoky flavor.
This blend of sweet and smoky opens up new flavor horizons, enticing adventurous eaters.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the glaze for extra aroma and earthiness.
Fresh herbs not only enhance flavor but also bring vibrant color, elevating your Brussels sprouts even further.

These variations not only keep your meals exciting but also allow you to cater to various tastes and preferences! If you’re in a pinch for time, consider pairing these sprouts with a quick protein like grilled chicken or pan-seared fish for a fantastic weeknight dinner. Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Brussels sprouts after cooking. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To serve them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-8 minutes or sauté quickly in a skillet with a splash of water for a crisp finish.

Freshness Tip: For best results, consume them fresh. The sweet and tangy flavors of the Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts diminish over time but can still be delicious when reheated properly.

b1bda495 3210 483a 94be

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for bright green, firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have dark spots all over, as these indicate aging. Fresh sprouts should feel heavy for their size and smell earthy—ideal for roasting to perfection!

What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels sprouts?
After you enjoy your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, let them cool completely. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps preserve their flavor and texture.

Can I freeze my Brussels sprouts after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze your delightful Brussels sprouts! After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat while enjoying that sticky glaze!

What if my Brussels sprouts are soggy after roasting?
Very! If your Brussels sprouts turn out soggy, it might be due to excess moisture. Ensure you dry them thoroughly before roasting and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can trap steam. Individual spacing allows them to brown beautifully. Next time, keep a close eye during roasting—an even stir halfway can help perfect that caramelized finish!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re concerned about allergies: this recipe features soy sauce, which contains gluten and should be avoided by anyone with gluten intolerance. You can easily substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option. Additionally, since maple syrup is a common allergen, consider using honey instead, but remember to adjust the amount because it’s sweeter. Enjoy your cooking adventure!