If you are looking for a dish that’s both simple and irresistibly flavorful, then the Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts baked to perfection with creamy, tangy feta cheese melting into every crevice, and finished with a luscious touch of sweet balsamic glaze. This dish elevates a humble vegetable into a show-stopping side or even a light main that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with something fresh and vibrant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that make this dish unforgettable. From the rich creaminess of feta to the bright acidity of balsamic glaze, every element shines through.
- 16 oz Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts ensure a crisp-tender bite after baking.
- 6 oz Feta Cheese, crumbled: Adds a salty, creamy dimension that melts beautifully into the sprouts.
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze: Provides a sweet tangy finish that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.
- 1 tbsp Salted Butter: Brings a subtle richness and helps in browning the sprouts.
- 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Enhances flavor and aids in roasting with a lovely, fragrant depth.
- 1/2 tsp Seasoning Salt: A spice blend with garlic, paprika, onion, and oregano to amplify taste effortlessly.
How to Make Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming the bottom stem off each Brussels sprout and cutting them in half. This step is crucial because it helps the sprouts cook evenly and allows the feta to nestle in perfectly, soaking up every bit of flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Set your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot for roasting. Choose a ceramic cast iron baking dish if you have one as it prevents sticking, or line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prep work makes the cooking process smooth and hassle-free.
Step 3: Make the Butter and Oil Mixture
Melt the salted butter and whisk in the olive oil. Using a basting brush or spoon, spread about half of this mixture evenly across your baking dish. This layer not only enhances flavor but also ensures the sprouts don’t stick and roast to a lovely golden brown.
Step 4: Add Feta and Arrange the Brussels Sprouts
Next, scatter an even coating of crumbled feta cheese over the butter mixture in the dish. Then, press each halved sprout gently but firmly into the feta, making sure the cheese adheres well. Whether you place them in rows or randomly, the goal is to get every sprout cozy with the cheese for maximum cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Add Remaining Butter Mixture and Seasoning
Brush the remaining butter and olive oil mixture on top of the sprouts to lock in moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the seasoning salt evenly to add that extra kick with its blend of garlic, paprika, and herbs.
Step 6: Bake and Glaze
Bake for 25 minutes until sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized. After removing from the oven, resist the urge to touch them immediately—let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes to deepen the flavors. Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top to add an irresistible sweet and tangy finish that pulls everything together.
How to Serve Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the balsamic glaze and feta. A few cracked black pepper pieces on top can also add a subtle spicy contrast.
Side Dishes
This recipe works wonderfully as a side dish to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even alongside a hearty grain bowl. The creamy feta and sweet glaze complement proteins and grains alike, making it a versatile companion for all sorts of meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe over a bed of quinoa or farro for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Another idea is to stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delicious handheld option that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve managed to have any left, store your Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen as they rest.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but keep in mind the texture of Brussels sprouts might soften a bit after thawing. To freeze, cool the dish completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and use within 1 to 2 months for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crispy edge and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sprouts mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferable for texture and flavor, you can use frozen sprouts in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and dry them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try crumbled goat cheese or a vegan feta alternative. Both will give you a similar tangy richness to pair with the balsamic glaze.
How thick should the balsamic glaze be?
The balsamic glaze should be thick enough to drizzle easily without running off the food. You can buy it pre-made or reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until it coats the back of a spoon.
Can I make this vegan?
Definitely! Swap the butter with olive oil and use a vegan feta substitute or omit the cheese. The balsamic glaze adds plenty of flavor to keep it deliciously satisfying.
What if I don’t have seasoning salt?
You can make your own blend with salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, pepper, and dried oregano. It’s an easy way to add depth and complexity to the dish without buying pre-made seasoning.
Final Thoughts
The Baked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and special at the same time. It’s incredibly approachable but delivers big on flavor, perfect for any occasion. I promise once you try it, these savory, cheesy, tangy bites will become a favorite go-to in your kitchen.
PrintBaked Brussels Sprouts with Feta and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Delicious roasted Brussels sprouts baked with crumbled feta cheese and topped with a sweet balsamic glaze, creating a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. This easy-to-make side dish features tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts infused with creamy feta, enhanced by a buttery olive oil base and a flavorful seasoning salt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 16 oz Brussels Sprouts
Cheese
- 6 oz Feta Cheese, crumbled
Glaze & Oils
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze
- 1 tbsp Salted Butter
- 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Seasoning Salt (mixture of garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion, and oregano)
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the bottom stem area off each Brussels sprout and cut them in half. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Use a ceramic cast iron baking dish for best non-stick results or a sheet pan lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Melt Butter and Mix Oils: Melt the salted butter and combine it with the extra virgin olive oil. Use a basting brush or spoon to spread about half of this butter mixture evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
- Layer Feta Cheese: Spread an even coating of crumbled feta cheese over the butter-oil mixture in the baking dish.
- Arrange Brussels Sprouts: Firmly press each halved Brussels sprout down into the feta cheese, using a little force especially with larger chunks of feta to embed the cheese into the sprouts. Arrange as desired, either randomly or in rows.
- Add Remaining Butter Mixture and Season: Brush the rest of the butter and olive oil mixture over the tops of the Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle the seasoning salt evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until Brussels sprouts are tender and cheese is slightly browned.
- Rest: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest untouched for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Drizzle Balsamic Glaze: Immediately after removing from oven, drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
Notes
- To save cleanup time, use a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
- Adjust seasoning salt quantity to your taste preference or substitute with your favorite spice blend.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and tang; if unavailable, use a reduction of balsamic vinegar or a honey glaze as alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed cold or reheated.