Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your veggie game, this Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts caramelized to golden perfection, their natural bitterness mellowed by the touch of sweet honey and the rich, savory flair of crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese melting right on top. This dish brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes Brussels sprouts irresistible, whether you’re serving them as a hearty side or a simple vegetarian main. It’s comfort food with a sophisticated twist, and I can’t wait for you to experience that first bite of warm, crispy sprouts with a cheesy finish.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful dish, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s enhancing flavor, adding texture, or giving the dish its signature golden glow.

• Brussels sprouts (700 g/1½ lb): Fresh and trimmed, halving them ensures even roasting and caramelization.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the sprouts crisp up beautifully in the oven.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): Sweetens and balances the natural bitterness of the sprouts, creating that irresistible caramelized coating.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the sprouts’ natural flavors.
• Garlic powder or minced garlic (½ teaspoon): Provides a subtle aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
• Feta or Parmesan cheese (¾ cup): Packed with savory umami flavor, this cheese melts just enough when sprinkled warm for a luscious topping.
• Optional chili flakes or lemon zest: For those who want a little kick or brightness to finish the dish.

How to Make Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F), ensuring it’s nice and hot for roasting. Lining a baking tray with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the stem ends and removing any yellow or damaged leaves, then halve them to encourage even cooking and maximum caramelization.

Step 2: Toss the Brussels Sprouts with Honey and Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly until every sprout is coated in the sweet and savory blend. This step is key for creating that glossy, sticky finish that transforms the dish into something truly special.

Step 3: Arrange and Roast

Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on your baking tray, placing them cut-side down. This positioning helps the cut edges caramelize into a crisp golden crust while the insides stay tender. Roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through so each side roasts evenly. Keep an eye on them as the edges crisp up to your liking.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish

Once the sprouts are beautifully roasted, take them out of the oven and immediately sprinkle the crumbled feta or grated Parmesan over the hot sprouts. The residual heat will gently melt the cheese, creating glorious pockets of creamy, savory flavor. If you like, finish with a sprinkle of chili flakes or some fresh lemon zest for a pop of heat or brightness.

How to Serve Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can make your Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese feel even more special. Try adding a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for color, crunch, and an herby aroma. A drizzle of extra honey or balsamic glaze can amplify the sweetness and add visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. It also complements vegetarian dishes such as quinoa bowls or creamy risottos, bringing a lovely balance to the plate with its sweet-savory profile and satisfying crispness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these sprouts on a platter topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a festive, jewel-like contrast. You can also stuff them into pita pockets with hummus for a vibrant vegetarian sandwich, or toss into warm pasta for an easy weeknight meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the honey’s sticky glaze helps the sprouts retain moisture without getting soggy too quickly.

Freezing

Freezing roasted Brussels sprouts is possible, but to enjoy the best texture, it’s better to freeze them before roasting. After roasting, the crispy texture may suffer. If you do freeze cooked sprouts, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up. A quick toss in a hot skillet also works wonderfully for restoring crunchy edges. Avoid microwaving, which tends to soften the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts offer the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What type of cheese works best?

Feta and Parmesan are fantastic choices because they melt slightly and add a burst of savory richness. You can also experiment with goat cheese or even sharp cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

The honey and cheese make it non-vegan, but you can substitute maple syrup for honey and use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan while preserving similar flavors.

How do I get Brussels sprouts crispy without burning them?

Roasting at a high temperature and placing the sprouts cut-side down helps achieve crispy edges. Flipping halfway ensures they cook evenly without burning. Keep a close eye near the end to prevent overcooking.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and toss them with the honey and oil mixture ahead of time, then refrigerate. Roast just before serving for the best caramelized, crispy texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cheese recipe a whirl because it’s the kind of dish that turns even the most skeptical veggie lovers into fans. Its sweet, savory, crispy, and creamy notes come together in a way that feels both comforting and a little luxurious. Once you try it, I promise Brussels sprouts will no longer be a simple side option but a highlight on your table. Happy roasting!