Transforming humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side dish has never been easier or more delicious. This quick orange maple brussels sprouts recipe is a vibrant, sweet-tart, and savory revelation that promises to convert even the most ardent sprout skeptics. In under half an hour, you’ll create a dish bursting with flavor, marrying the earthy crunch of perfectly roasted sprouts with a glistening glaze of pure maple syrup and fresh orange. It’s the ideal last-minute addition to any meal, from a busy weeknight dinner to a festive holiday spread, offering a delightful balance of taste and texture that truly elevates the vegetable.
Why you’ll love this Speedy Zesty Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: This dish offers a complex symphony of tastes. The natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup, the bright acidity of fresh orange, and a hint of savory garlic. Add the optional red pepper flakes for a subtle, warming kick.
- Incredible Speed and Ease: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this entire recipe comes together in half an hour. It’s a lifesaver for busy evenings or when you need a quick yet impressive side.
- Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Forget the old notions of bitter, mushy Brussels sprouts. The roasting technique combined with the irresistible glaze creates sprouts that are tender-crisp and caramelized, making them a hit with everyone, even those who claim not to like them. This quick orange maple brussels sprouts recipe is truly a game changer.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber. This recipe offers a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for a holiday feast but simple enough for a casual weeknight dinner, these sprouts fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary.
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Freshness is key here. Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Halving them ensures even cooking and more surface area for that delicious caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for roasting, helping the sprouts brown beautifully. Avocado oil is a good alternative.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best, most authentic flavor. Avoid pancake syrup, which is often corn syrup-based. For a slightly different sweetness, you could use honey, but it will alter the distinct maple flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed is paramount for that bright, zesty punch.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (from one small orange): Don’t skip the zest! It contains concentrated orange oils that provide intense citrus aroma and flavor, far more than just the juice.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory depth that complements the sweet and tart notes. Fresh minced garlic can also be used, but garlic powder blends more seamlessly into the glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick): Adds a lovely warmth and subtle heat that balances the sweetness. Adjust to your preference or omit entirely for a milder dish. A pinch of smoked paprika could offer a different kind of warmth without the heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt & 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
How to make Speedy Zesty Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly roasted, gloriously glazed Brussels sprouts every time:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking.
- Season the Sprouts: In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss vigorously until every sprout is evenly coated.
- First Roast: Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures they roast and caramelize rather than steam. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast for 15 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender-crisp and just beginning to brown.
- Whip up the Glaze: While the sprouts are roasting, prepare your irresistible glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, fresh orange juice, orange zest, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them).
- Glaze & Finish: Remove the sprouts from the oven. Drizzle the prepared orange maple glaze evenly over them and toss gently to coat each sprout. Return the glazed sprouts to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. During this final roast, the glaze will slightly caramelize, clinging beautifully to the sprouts and deepening their flavor. Keep a close eye on them to prevent any burning.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy these vibrant and flavorful orange maple glazed Brussels sprouts hot off the pan as an unforgettable side dish.
Tips for Success
- Dry Sprouts for Crispiness: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dry after washing and before tossing with oil. Excess moisture will steam them instead of allowing them to get deliciously crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is perhaps the most important tip for perfectly roasted vegetables. Giving the sprouts space allows for proper air circulation, leading to crisp exteriors and tender interiors.
- Watch the Glaze: The sugar in the maple syrup can caramelize quickly. During the final 5-7 minutes of roasting, keep an eye on the sprouts to ensure the glaze doesn’t burn, turning bitter.
- Even Sizing: Try to halve your Brussels sprouts into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Larger sprouts might need an extra minute or two in the initial roasting phase.
- Adjust Heat: The red pepper flakes are entirely optional. If you prefer no heat, omit them. For more heat, feel free to add a little extra.
Serving Suggestions
These Speedy Zesty Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of main courses.
- Holiday Feasts: A natural fit for your Thanksgiving or Christmas table, offering a bright, fresh contrast to richer dishes.
- Roasted Proteins: They are fantastic alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or a succulent beef roast. Consider serving them with our Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken for a truly complementary meal.
- Grilled Dishes: The sweet and savory notes make them an excellent companion to grilled fish, chicken, or steak.
- Vegetarian Mains: Serve them alongside quinoa salads, lentil loaves, or a hearty vegetarian casserole for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Added Texture: For an extra touch of elegance and crunch, sprinkle with toasted pecans, walnuts, or even dried cranberries just before serving, especially during the festive season.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Leftover glazed Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: For the best results and to regain some crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or even a pan on the stovetop. While possible, reheating in the microwave is not recommended as it can make them soft and less appealing.
FAQ
Q: Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
A: The most common culprits are overcrowding the baking sheet (which causes them to steam) or not drying them thoroughly before coating with oil. Ensure they are in a single layer with space between each sprout.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: While you can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day in advance, this dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. The glaze can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge, then whisked again before use.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
A: While fresh orange juice and zest provide the best flavor, you can use bottled orange juice in a pinch. However, you’ll miss the aromatic intensity of fresh zest, which is crucial for the dish’s brightness.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Only if you add the red pepper flakes! The recipe lists them as optional. If omitted, the dish will be purely sweet, tart, and savory without any heat.
This Speedy Zesty Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s an invitation to rediscover a beloved vegetable in a whole new light. Its quick preparation, vibrant flavors, and irresistible appeal make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, prepare to impress your taste buds and your guests with this delightful culinary creation. For more zesty recipe inspiration, check out this Zesty Street Corn Steak Rice Bowls recipe.
Speedy Zesty Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a dazzling side dish in under half an hour! This irresistible recipe marries the earthy crunch of perfectly roasted sprouts with a vibrant, sweet-tart glaze crafted from pure maple syrup and fresh orange. It’s a delightful balance of flavors that will convert even the most skeptical sprout-eaters, making it an ideal last-minute addition to any meal or holiday spread. Healthy, quick, and bursting with citrusy sweetness, these orange maple glazed brussels sprouts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (from one small orange)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the sprouts are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they roast rather than steam. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Roast for 15 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender-crisp and lightly browned.
- While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the orange maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, fresh orange juice, orange zest, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Remove the sprouts from the oven. Drizzle the orange maple glaze evenly over the roasted sprouts and toss gently to coat.
- Return the glazed sprouts to the oven and roast for another 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has slightly caramelized and the sprouts are tender and beautifully browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately and enjoy these irresistible orange maple glazed brussels sprouts as a vibrant side dish.
Notes
For extra crispiness, ensure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before tossing with oil. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or cranberries at the end for added texture and holiday flair. Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference, or omit entirely for a milder flavor. This dish is fantastic alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or any grilled proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg