Name: Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts That Steal the Show
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels Sprouts (Halved); 2 cups Butternut Squash (Peeled and cubed); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for flavor); 3 tablespoons Honey (For glaze); to taste teaspoon Salt; to taste teaspoon Pepper; 4 slices Bacon (Cooked and crumbled); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries; 1 cup Feta Cheese (Crumble on top)

As I pulled open the fridge, a forgotten bag of Brussels sprouts stared back at me—an unexpected culinary challenge! This moment sparked my creativity and led to these Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash, a dish that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing delight for your taste buds. The quick prep time makes it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nourishing yet packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for various diets—swap out bacon for smoked tempeh if you’re going vegetarian! Ready to savor the rich fusion of superfoods, cranberries, and feta? Let’s dive in!

Why are Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor Combo: The sweet honey glaze paired with the saltiness of bacon and creaminess of feta creates a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Quick & Easy Prep: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for your busy nights.
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re a meat-lover or need a vegetarian option, this dish adapts effortlessly—consider swapping bacon for smoked tempeh for an equally satisfying finish.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, each bite offers health benefits without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear, making it a standout choice that everyone will love, just like my favorite savory chicken piccata meatballs!

Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

• Dive into the deliciousness of Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with these carefully curated ingredients!

For the Vegetables

Brussels Sprouts – Halved; provides a robust, slightly bitter base that caramelizes beautifully when roasted.
Butternut Squash – Peeled and cubed; adds natural sweetness and creamy texture, but sweet potatoes can be used for an even sweeter profile.

For the Glaze

Olive Oil – Extra virgin for flavor; helps in achieving that perfect caramelization on the veggies.
Honey – For glaze; contributes a delightful sweetness and a glossy finish that enhances the overall dish.
Salt – To taste; enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and balances the sweetness of honey.
Pepper – To taste; adds warmth and depth to the dish.

For the Add-Ins

Bacon – Cooked and crumbled; offers a salty, savory crunch, but can be omitted for a vegetarian version—substitute with smoked tempeh for flavor.
Dried Cranberries – Adds a tangy sweetness and chewy texture; feel free to swap in raisins if cranberries aren’t available.
Feta Cheese – Crumbled on top; provides a creamy, tangy richness that complements all the ingredients, or try goat cheese for a different twist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash. While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Your baking sheet should be ready for the festive flavors to come!

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts and cubed butternut squash with extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Coat everything evenly to ensure that each piece of the vegetables will develop that irresistible glaze. The mixture should glisten, showcasing the vibrant colors of the veggies as they await their transformation.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Spread the prepared Brussels sprouts and butternut squash evenly onto the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer for optimal roasting. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through this time, flip the vegetables with a spatula to promote even cooking and achieve a caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Mix in Add-Ins
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven once the veggies are tender and golden, and immediately mix in the crumbled bacon and dried cranberries. The warmth from the roasted vegetables will help plump the cranberries, adding a delightful chewiness. Stir gently to combine these add-ins for an explosion of flavors in your Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts.

Step 5: Add Feta and Serve
Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the warm roasted vegetables for a creamy, tangy finish. The feta will soften slightly upon contact with the heat, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile. Serve the Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts immediately for the best taste experience, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to impress at any table!

Expert Tips for Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Uniform Cutting: Ensure vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even roasting and caramelization, enhancing the flavorful experience of your Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts.
Bacon Baking: Cook bacon on a separate tray to avoid mess and ensure crispy results. This way, you can focus on perfectly roasting your veggies without distraction.
Cooling Before Feta: Allow the roasted vegetables to cool slightly before adding feta. This helps maintain the cheese’s texture and prevents it from becoming too melty.
Taste Testing: Always taste your dish before serving. Since salt levels can vary between bacon and feta, adjust seasoning accordingly to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, smoked tempeh or paprika can bring depth to your Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts!

What to Serve with Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash?

Creating a memorable meal is all about balance, and these delightful Brussels sprouts provide the perfect opportunity for tasty pairings!

Roasted Chicken: Juicy and succulent, roasted chicken adds a savory richness that complements the honey-glazed sweetness beautifully. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a crowd-pleaser.
Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of grilled steak elevate these honey-glazed Brussels sprouts into a hearty main course, perfect for a cozy gathering or a festive dinner.
Quinoa Salad: A light, refreshing quinoa salad featuring crisp vegetables brings a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the warmth of roasted veggies.
Garlic Bread: This comforting side offers a delightful crunchy texture and aromatic garlic flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience when alongside the sweet and savory Brussels sprouts.
Apple Crisp: These sweet and tangy flavors in apple crisp serve as a lovely dessert, balancing out the savory notes of your meal while adding a warm, comforting finish.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc ties the meal together, its zesty acidity cutting through the richness of feta and bacon while refreshing the palate.
Fresh Herb Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or thyme on top for a fresh pop of flavor and beautiful presentation.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For a sweetness boost, roasted sweet potatoes complement every bite, enhancing the harmony of flavors in your meal with their tender texture.

Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Variations

Customize your dish and awaken your culinary creativity with these tempting twists and substitutions!

Plant-Based Delight: Omit bacon for a vegetarian version. Try smoked tempeh or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to retain that savory depth.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes for an even sweeter and heartier profile, a great option for those with a sweet tooth.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans to the mix before serving for an extra crunch that complements the tenderness of the roasted veggies.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting to elevate the aromatic experience of your dish.
Cheese Alternatives: Substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese for a different creamy texture while keeping it deliciously tangy.
Balsamic Drizzle: For added tanginess, finish your dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving. It brings a sophisticated twist to the flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who like to spice things up! This will create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the honey glaze.

Explore these exciting options to make your Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts unique every time you prepare them! With so much versatility, check out my other dish featuring Spiced Brussels Sprouts for more inspiration.

Storage Tips for Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves the flavor and texture of your Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Smooth out excess air to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. You can also use the microwave if you’re short on time.

Airtight Wrapping: For the best results, ensure all components are well-wrapped or sealed—especially the feta, to avoid moisture.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and cut the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook and crumble the bacon, mixing it into the veggies just before serving to maintain its crispy texture. If you want to save even more time, roast the vegetables up to 3 days ahead; simply reheat them in the oven before finishing with cranberries and feta. By prepping in advance, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, opt for firm, bright green ones without any yellow leaves or dark spots. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. For butternut squash, pick ones that are heavy and free from blemishes for the best flavor.

How can I store the leftover Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s flavor and texture, let it cool before sealing. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Just remember to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn!

What’s the best way to reheat the leftover Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
To achieve that perfect crispness, reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, ensuring the dish warms through without becoming mushy.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Very! For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and consider substituting with smoked tempeh or adding smoked paprika for that savory depth. For a vegan twist, swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Is it safe for my pets to eat Brussels sprouts?
Yes, Brussels sprouts can be a healthy treat for dogs in moderation, as they are rich in vitamins and fiber. However, be cautious with serving sizes, as too many can cause gastrointestinal upset. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to their diet.

Can I freeze the Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the dish has cooled completely, then transfer it to a sealed bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave for the best taste experience.