Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans – Easy, Healthy & Flavor-Packed

🧄 The Story Behind Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans 🥬✨

Roasted Brussels sprouts weren’t always the culinary darling they are today. For years, Brussels sprouts had a bad reputation — boiled into bitterness, overcooked, and often left behind on the dinner plate. Everything changed in the early 2000s when chefs and home cooks discovered the magic of roasting. The charred edges, tender centers, and deep caramelized flavor made these tiny green gems irresistible.

When balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans emerged, the world finally saw how versatile and delicious Brussels sprouts could be. The balsamic vinegar adds a sweet tang that balances their earthy flavor, while maple syrup or honey enhances the glaze. But the true game-changer? Pecans 🌰. Their toasty crunch and buttery texture complement the acidity of balsamic perfectly, transforming a simple roasted vegetable into a holiday-worthy side dish.

🔥 A Modern Twist on a Classic Ingredient

The combination of balsamic and pecans created a dish that’s both elegant and accessible — one that fits seamlessly into family dinners, potlucks, or festive holiday spreads. Today, balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are enjoyed worldwide, loved for their sweet-savory balance and crisp texture. They’ve even earned a spot alongside traditional holiday favorites like mashed potatoes and stuffing.

For a truly complete meal, pair this side with a decadent dessert such as my Ube Crinkle Cookies. The sweet, chewy texture of these cookies beautifully complements the savory crunch of Brussels sprouts, making your dinner unforgettable.

🌍 Who’s Cooking It the Most? Top 10 Countries That Love This Dish

• 🇺🇸 United States – Especially in Southern kitchens and West Coast plant-based menus
• 🇨🇦 Canada – Featured in cozy winter and holiday feasts
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom – A creative twist on classic roasted vegetables
• 🇦🇺 Australia – Served at festive barbecues and casual gatherings
• 🇩🇪 Germany – Enjoyed with hearty main courses and roasts
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands – Popular with sweet glazes and nuts
• 🇸🇪 Sweden – Common in winter comfort food and vegan diets
• 🇿🇦 South Africa – Trending among roasted vegetable lovers
• 🇳🇿 New Zealand – A seasonal favorite in health-conscious homes
• 🇮🇪 Ireland – Often featured during Christmas celebrations

The beauty of balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans lies in their simplicity, adaptability, and timeless flavor. Whether served alongside roast turkey or enjoyed as a vegetarian main, this dish captures the perfect harmony of crispiness, sweetness, and nutty warmth — a must-have on any holiday table.

11 Irresistible Reasons to Love These Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

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• Author: Donald Anderson
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans—an easy, sweet-savory side dish perfect for holidays or everyday healthy eating.

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Ingredients

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• 1½ lbs fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ cup raw pecan halves, roughly chopped
• Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Prep the Brussels Sprouts
2. Trim ends and remove any yellow outer leaves.
3. Cut large sprouts in half for even roasting.
4. Toss with Oil and Seasonings
5. In a large bowl, combine sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Toss in the pecans for the last part of mixing.
7. Roast Until Crispy
8. Spread out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
9. Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
10. Drizzle balsamic and maple syrup in the last 5 minutes for a caramelized finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Oven roasted
• Cuisine: American

🛠️ What You’ll Need to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

A truly great dish starts with quality ingredients and the right tools. Balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are delightfully simple to prepare, but a few smart kitchen choices can elevate the flavor, texture, and presentation. Whether you’re cooking for two or prepping for a holiday feast, having the right setup makes all the difference.

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets — just a handful of essentials that you likely already have in your kitchen. Below is your must-have equipment and prep advice to ensure your Brussels sprouts come out crispy, caramelized, and absolutely irresistible.

🍽️ Essential Tools for the Best Results

Here’s what you’ll need to bring your balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans to life:

• Large rimmed baking sheet – This helps achieve that signature crispy finish. Avoid overcrowding to ensure the sprouts roast instead of steam.
• Mixing bowls – Use a medium or large bowl to evenly coat the Brussels sprouts with oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings.
• Sharp knife or mandoline – A sharp knife makes trimming and halving the sprouts faster and more consistent.
• Parchment paper (optional) – Helps prevent sticking, promotes even roasting, and makes cleanup faster.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re doubling the batch, use two baking sheets. This avoids crowding and gives every sprout room to brown beautifully.

🔥 Preparation Tips for Roasting Like a Pro

Even a simple recipe can be made exceptional with a few prep techniques:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F – High heat helps the Brussels sprouts caramelize without becoming mushy.
• Choose fresh, bright green sprouts – Firmness indicates freshness. Avoid any that feel soft or have yellowing leaves.
• Halve large sprouts – Uniform sizing ensures even roasting and helps avoid burnt edges.
• Toss generously and thoroughly – Each sprout should be coated with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup to achieve that addictive caramelized finish.

Want to master more than just roasted vegetables? Explore my elevated brunch game-changer — these Eggs Benedict Variations are perfect for weekend meals and pair surprisingly well with savory veggie sides like these Brussels sprouts.

🧂 Ingredients for Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Great recipes start with great ingredients. This dish uses a handful of wholesome, pantry-friendly items that combine to create an irresistible sweet-savory profile. From the earthiness of Brussels sprouts to the buttery crunch of pecans and the rich depth of balsamic, each ingredient plays a role in balancing flavor and texture.

🥗 Main Ingredients

These are the core elements that bring the recipe to life:

• 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1/2 cup raw pecans, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for even roasting and richness
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar – the key tangy, slightly sweet glaze
• 1 tbsp maple syrup – to enhance natural caramelization
• Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning balance

This simple combo ensures the sprouts get perfectly crisped on the outside while soaking up flavor on the inside.

🌟 Optional Add-ons

Want to dress it up for the holidays or give it an extra pop of flavor? Try these optional but highly recommended additions:

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries – ideal for holiday meals or a sweet-tart note
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese – adds creaminess and contrast
• Dash of chili flakes – if you like a little heat

These variations allow you to adapt the recipe to your mood, occasion, or guests. And if you’re planning a full holiday spread, don’t forget a crowd-pleasing dessert like my Cannoli Dip Cups — a no-bake sweet treat that’s as easy as it is addictive.

👨‍🍳 How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

This recipe proves that elegance doesn’t require complexity. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple roasting method, you’ll create balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans that are crisp, golden, and full of sweet-savory flavor. The key? A few smart steps that ensure even cooking and a delicious finish.

Whether you’re prepping for a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this guide will help you achieve restaurant-worthy results with ease.

🔪 Step-by-Step Method

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F – This high temp helps achieve that signature crispy edge while caramelizing the glaze.
2. Prep your ingredients – Trim off the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and discard any yellow or wilted outer leaves. Halve larger sprouts for even cooking.
3. Mix in a large bowl – Combine the halved Brussels sprouts, chopped pecans, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Toss thoroughly – Make sure each sprout is well-coated with the glaze. This helps achieve a glossy, even caramelization.
5. Spread on a baking sheet – Arrange the mixture in a single layer on a parchment-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Cut-side down yields the crispiest texture.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes – Flip halfway through roasting to allow all sides to brown.
7. Optional holiday twist: In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle in some dried cranberries for a sweet-tart pop and festive color.

These balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are incredibly adaptable — perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or even meal prepping lunches for the week.

💡 Pro Tips for Success

• Use a hot oven: A lower temperature won’t give you that beautiful browning and crispy finish.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Give each sprout space to roast — overcrowding leads to steaming.
• Toss well before roasting: You want every sprout and pecan to be coated in that sweet balsamic glaze.

Pair this savory dish with something indulgently sweet, like my Churro Cheesecake Bars. The cinnamon-sugar crunch and creamy filling are the perfect contrast to the earthy, glazed Brussels sprouts — ideal for a holiday table or a well-rounded dinner party menu.

🍴 Serving & Storage Tips for Maximum Enjoyment

Whether you’re preparing balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans for a Thanksgiving feast, Sunday dinner, or a casual weeknight meal, how you serve and store them can elevate the entire experience. This dish shines brightest straight out of the oven, with those crisped edges and warm balsamic-maple glaze. But don’t worry — with the right tips, you can maintain its flavor and texture for days.

These balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are not just delicious — they’re flexible, travel well, and can be reheated without losing their appeal when done right.

🥘 Serving Suggestions

These sprouts are a flavorful chameleon. Their tangy balsamic glaze and toasted pecan crunch work beautifully with both meaty mains and vegetarian options:

• Serve warm alongside turkey, roasted chicken, glazed ham, or pork tenderloin.
• Make it vegetarian by pairing with wild rice, couscous, or a hearty quinoa salad.
• Build a nourish bowl with roasted root veggies, hummus, and tahini dressing.
• Add holiday flair with dried cranberries and goat cheese for color and brightness.

And when you’re ready to complete your meal with something sweet, I highly recommend my Honey Cannoli Toast. Its creamy ricotta, honey drizzle, and crunchy toast points pair perfectly with the rich, savory flavor of these Brussels sprouts — especially at brunch or holiday buffets.

🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

Want to keep your balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans just as satisfying the next day? Follow these storage and reheating techniques:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in oven or air fryer: Set to 375°F and warm for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving — it softens the sprouts and ruins that crunchy texture.
• Freezing? Not recommended. Brussels sprouts lose their firm bite and become mushy when thawed.

💡 Make-ahead tip: If you’re prepping in advance, roast the sprouts without pecans first. Add them fresh during reheating for maximum crunch and freshness.

With these tips, your balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans will be just as irresistible on day two as they were fresh from the oven.

🌀 Recipe Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans, there’s a whole world of ways to remix this dish to suit your taste, your guests, or even the season. Whether you’re elevating your holiday spread or creating a balanced plant-based meal, this versatile recipe adapts beautifully to bold twists, subtle additions, and international flavors.

These creative takes preserve the sweet-savory essence that makes balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans so popular — while letting you add your own flair.

🎄 1. Holiday Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Feta

Make your balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans even more festive with this holiday-ready twist. Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries during the final 5 minutes of roasting. Then, just before serving, sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese. This combo adds tanginess, color, and creamy contrast to the nutty base.

• ✨ Pro Tip: A touch of orange zest adds brightness and a citrusy aroma.
• 💡 Perfect pairings: Glazed ham, roast turkey, or a vegetarian Wellington.

This version is especially popular during Thanksgiving, as it balances savory mains and brings color to the table.

🍯 2. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic

For deeper caramelization and richer sweetness, swap maple syrup for honey. Roast the balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans an extra 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the honey to bubble and brown along the edges.

• 🌰 Nut swap: Try toasted walnuts or hazelnuts if pecans aren’t available.
• 🌿 Herb boost: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for a savory dimension.

This version pairs beautifully with smoky meats or earthy vegetarian mains and is ideal when you’re craving more intense flavor without extra complexity.

🥗 3. Vegetarian Brussels Sprouts Grain Bowl

Have leftovers? Toss your balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans into a warm grain bowl for a quick lunch or a nourishing weeknight dinner.

• Combine with quinoa, shredded kale, and a drizzle of tahini dressing.
• Add avocado, toasted chickpeas, or sunflower seeds for texture and plant-based protein.

This variation is great for meal prepping ahead — it’s satisfying, portable, and equally delicious warm or at room temperature. For a full Southern-inspired plant-based spread, pair it with my hearty Texas-Style Mustard Potato Salad.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🏁 Conclusion: Why You’ll Make These Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans Again and Again

Balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are the kind of dish that effortlessly becomes a staple. They’re simple, satisfying, and full of depth — a perfect marriage of crispiness, sweet-tangy glaze, and nutty crunch. It’s no wonder this recipe has made its way from seasonal side dish to year-round favorite in kitchens across the world.

Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner or just looking to upgrade your Tuesday night vegetables, balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans hit all the right notes. They’re naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and packed with flavor — making them a versatile option that suits a wide range of diets and preferences. With just a few pantry staples and a single baking sheet, you’ll have a restaurant-quality side dish that even the pickiest eaters will rave about.

What makes balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans so beloved is their adaptability. Add dried cranberries for holiday flair, swap maple syrup with honey for a deeper roast, or fold leftovers into a grain bowl for lunch the next day. The flavor foundation is so solid that no matter how you tweak it, the results remain deliciously memorable.

And don’t forget dessert. After a savory bite of balsamic-glazed sprouts and toasted pecans, you’ll want something cool and creamy to balance it out. I recommend my Cannoli Dip Cups — they’re fast, festive, and just the right touch of sweetness to round out the meal.

Whether you’re making this for the first time or the fiftieth, balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. They’re proof that vegetables can be crave-worthy, comforting, and celebratory — all in one bite.