Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Introduction
Brussels sprouts get a delicious makeover with a sweet and tangy glaze that brings out their natural flavor. This simple skillet recipe caramelizes the sprouts to crispy perfection, making them a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients
- 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, cut in half
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of kosher salt in a small bowl. Stir well using a whisk or fork until fully mixed.
- Step 2: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat until hot. Add 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil. While the pan heats, trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Step 3: Tilt the pan to evenly coat with oil. Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down, trying to place as many flat side down as possible. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to allow caramelization. Season with kosher salt.
- Step 4: Stir the sprouts and continue to cook for 3 to 5 minutes more, stirring once to prevent burning. Pour in the maple syrup mixture and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Transfer the glazed Brussels sprouts to a serving plate or bowl and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds or chopped pecans over the finished dish.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the maple syrup mixture.
- Swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a deeper, richer glaze.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to maintain their glaze and texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for caramelizing in the skillet. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done cooking?
The sprouts should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a nice golden-brown color on the cut sides from caramelizing. Cooking times may vary slightly based on sprout size and heat level.
PrintCaramelized Brussels Sprouts Recipe
A simple and delicious skillet recipe for caramelized Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy maple syrup glaze. This dish features tender Brussels sprouts pan-seared to golden perfection and coated with a flavorful blend of olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, making it an ideal side for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, cut in half
Glaze
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the glaze: Combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of kosher salt in a small bowl. Stir well using a whisk or fork until fully blended to create a smooth glaze.
- Heat the skillet and prep Brussels sprouts: Place a 12-inch skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up. While waiting, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and halve them lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
- Caramelize the Brussels sprouts: Add 1½ to 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the hot skillet. Tilt the pan to evenly coat the surface with oil. Arrange the Brussels sprouts cut side down in the pan carefully to maximize caramelization. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust. Season with kosher salt.
- Continue cooking and add glaze: Stir the Brussels sprouts and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring once to prevent burning. Pour in the prepared maple syrup glaze and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to evenly coat the sprouts and allow the glaze to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the caramelized Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the Brussels sprouts to achieve the best caramelization.
- Do not stir the Brussels sprouts for the first 4 minutes to allow a golden crust to form.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on dietary preference.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger servings.
- For a vegan variation, ensure maple syrup and Dijon mustard are vegan-friendly brands.
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, caramelized Brussels sprouts, skillet Brussels sprouts, maple syrup glaze, vegetarian side dish

