There’s something irresistibly comforting about the sweet mingling of maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard, especially when it’s drizzled over crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection. One evening, craving a side that felt both familiar and exciting, I tossed these humble little greens with this simple yet bold combo—and the result was a revelation. This Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts recipe strikes the perfect balance between caramelized sweetness and sharp zest, transforming a veggie that some often overlook into the star of the dinner table. Whether you’re a longtime Brussels enthusiast or someone looking to break free from boring fast food routines, this easy-to-make dish promises a flavor punch and versatility that will win over even the pickiest eaters. Let me share how this straightforward recipe quickly became a favorite go-to, adding a bright, cozy twist to my homemade meals.
Why love Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts?
Bold flavor fusion: The sweet maple syrup perfectly complements the tangy Dijon mustard creating a mouthwatering taste. Effortless preparation: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make roasting these sprouts a breeze. Crispy texture: Roasting transforms them into tender bites with a golden, crunchy edge. Versatile side: Pairs wonderfully with meats, pastas, or as a standalone snack. Crowd-pleaser: Even veggie skeptics find these sprouts irresistible thanks to their balanced sweetness and zest.
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels sprouts – Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best caramelization and texture.
- Olive oil – Use extra virgin for a rich flavor that helps achieve crispy edges.
- Salt – Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Black pepper – Adds a gentle heat that complements the tangy Dijon.
For the Maple Dijon Glaze
- Maple syrup – The star sweetener that brings warmth and depth to this Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts dish.
- Dijon mustard – Adds tang and sharpness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the syrup.
- Apple cider vinegar – A splash brightens the glaze and lifts the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder – Provides a subtle savory note without overpowering the glaze.
How to Make Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so the sprouts develop crispy, golden-brown edges while locking in tender, nutty flavor at high heat.
- Trim & Halve: Trim the stem ends off each Brussels sprout, slice them in half, and give them a gentle toss in extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roast Sprouts: Spread sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring space for even browning; roast for 20–25 minutes until tender inside and beautifully caramelized along the edges.
- For the Glaze:
- Whisk Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and glossy, balancing sweet warmth with a tangy zing.
- Glaze & Finish: Remove sprouts from oven, drizzle with the glaze, toss gently to coat, then return to oven for 5 more minutes until glaze is bubbly and edges deepen to a rich, amber hue.
- Plate & Enjoy: Transfer the glazed sprouts to a warm platter, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sea salt, and serve immediately for the crispiest, sweetest bites.
Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts
- Fridge: Store leftover Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor while keeping them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sprouts in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Roast from frozen without thawing for best results.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, drizzling a little olive oil to restore their crispy texture.
- Avoid room temperature: It’s best not to leave cooked sprouts at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
Tips for the Best Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts
- Choose fresh sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts to ensure a tender inside and crispy edges after roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each sprout space on the baking sheet to brown evenly and develop that perfect caramelized texture.
- Use high heat roasting: Roasting at 400°F locks in the nutty flavor and creates the signature crispy edges for your Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts.
- Balance the glaze: Whisk the maple syrup and Dijon mustard thoroughly to avoid overpowering sweetness or acidity; adjust vinegar to taste for brightness.
- Apply glaze twice: Tossing sprouts with glaze before finishing in the oven brings out a glossy, sticky coating without sogginess.
- Serve immediately: To enjoy the best texture and flavor, serve your Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts right after roasting while they’re still crisp and warm.
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Bacon Boost: Toss in crispy bacon bits before roasting for a smoky flavor and extra crunch. The combination of maple, bacon, and Brussels is simply irresistible!
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Nutty Delight: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that complements the glaze beautifully. Nutty bites will elevate your veggie side, making it even more satisfying.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts just before glazing. As it melts, it adds a savory layer that perfectly complements the sweet and tangy sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness of the maple. It’s a fantastic way to spice things up!
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Tangy Twist: Swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar in the glaze for a sweeter, richer tang. This change adds a sophisticated depth of flavor that’s truly enticing!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the roast for an aromatic profile that enhances every bite, inviting a garden-fresh vibe to your dish.
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Maple Mustard Variation: For a different flavor profile, try using whole grain mustard in place of Dijon for added texture and a slightly nuttier taste. The crunch will keep your taste buds happy!
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Sweet & Savory Blend: Drizzle a bit of honey alongside the maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness that enhances the caramelization while balancing the savory elements beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. Additionally, you can prepare the Maple Dijon glaze ahead of time—mix all the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss the sprouts with olive oil, roast them as directed, and drizzle with the glaze for the last few minutes. Following these steps ensures your dish is just as delicious while saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts?
There’s nothing quite like the pop of sweetness and tangy zing from these Brussels sprouts to elevate your meal experience.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness in these tender carrots enhances the maple glaze while adding a splash of vibrant color to your plate.
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Garlic Roasted Chicken: The savory, juicy flavor of the chicken complements the delightful sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, making for a well-rounded dinner.
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Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad with fresh herbs and citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the sprouts.
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Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy, slightly sweet mashed sweet potatoes create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the caramelized Brussels sprouts.
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Crispy Bacon: Adding crispy bacon bits on top brings a savory crunch that contrasts deliciously with the sweet and tangy Brussels, making it an irresistible combination.
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Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider mirrors the flavors within the dish, enhancing the overall experience with its crisp and refreshing notes.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these classic cookies are a nostalgic finish, their comforting sweetness echoing the maple notes from dinner.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with garlic harmonize with the Brussels sprouts, adding a delightful crunch and freshness to your meal.
Easy Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts That’ll Elevate Your Dinner Game Recipe FAQs
What kind of Brussels sprouts should I choose for the best results?
Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves and no dark spots. Freshness is key for crispy roasting and sweet caramelization.
How long can I store leftover Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts in the refrigerator?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. Keep them chilled promptly to preserve their flavor and prevent sogginess, then reheat gently to bring back their crispness.
Can I freeze Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts, and what’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! First, roast the sprouts until just tender but not fully glazed. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid (about 2 hours), transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, then toss with fresh glaze.
What should I do if my roasted Brussels sprouts turn out soggy instead of crispy?
Soggy sprouts often mean they were overcrowded on the pan or roasted at too low a temperature. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer and roast at a high heat—400°F is perfect. Also, trimming and halving them correctly helps achieve that golden crust.
Is this recipe safe for pets or suitable for people with allergies?
While Brussels sprouts themselves are non-toxic to dogs and cats in small amounts, the maple Dijon glaze contains ingredients like mustard and vinegar that might upset their stomachs. For people with mustard allergies, substitute Dijon mustard with a mild alternative like mayonnaise or a small amount of horseradish, adjusting the glaze flavor carefully.
Easy Maple Dijon Brussels Sprouts That’ll Elevate Your Dinner Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Remove sprouts from the oven, drizzle with the glaze, toss gently, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
- Transfer to a warm platter, garnish with parsley or sea salt, and serve immediately.
