Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

Joe Peacock

1 week ago

If you think Brussels sprouts aren’t your thing, these Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts just might change your mind. They’re crispy, caramelized, and tossed in a sweet-meets-spicy glaze that hits every flavor note—savory, smoky, and just enough heat to keep things interesting.

I started making these as a simple side for weeknight dinners, but they’ve quickly become a favorite snack, appetizer, and holiday dish all in one. Roasting brings out their natural nuttiness, and the hot honey gives them that addictive, sticky finish that’s hard to resist.

They’re easy to throw together with pantry staples, and you can dress them up with a sprinkle of chili flakes, crumbled feta, or toasted nuts if you’re feeling fancy. Whether you’re serving them alongside roast chicken or piling them onto grain bowls, they’ll disappear fast.

Let’s turn Brussels sprouts into the star of the plate—crispy, bold, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love Thoses Honey Brussels Sprouts

Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic vegetable side dish. Whether you are a long-time Brussels sprouts lover or a newcomer looking for something fresh, these roasted sprouts will captivate your taste buds. The combination of sweet hot honey, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a sprinkle of feta cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

These Brussels sprouts are perfect for any occasion. They make a fantastic side for holiday dinners, summer barbecues, or just a cozy family dinner at home. The bit of spice from the hot honey paired with the earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts and the creamy tang of feta is a match made in heaven. Once you try them, you will keep coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts:

To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

24 oz Brussels sprouts, quartered: Look for firm, vibrant green sprouts.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in roasting and adds a rich flavor.
3 tablespoons hot honey, plus more for finishing: This adds the signature sweet and spicy kick.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Optional Add-Ons:

¼ cup cubed or crumbled feta: Introduces a creamy, salty element.
Chives, to garnish: Adds a fresh touch and visual appeal.

These ingredients come together easily, making this dish simple enough for a weeknight meal or special enough for entertaining guests.

How to Make Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts: A Step-by-Step Guide

Oven Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Start by adjusting your oven rack to the middle position, then preheat your oven. A hot oven is key to achieving crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Quarter the Brussels sprouts.
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends and cut each sprout in half, and then into quarters. This will help them cook evenly and increase their surface area for roasting.
Prepare the baking sheet.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the quartered Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and hot honey. Sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
Roast the Brussels sprouts.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Toss the sprouts halfway through for even cooking. They are ready when they are golden brown and tender.
Finish with feta and chives.
Once roasted, add cubed or crumbled feta to the Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle chopped chives over the top for garnish. Drizzle with a little more hot honey before serving them hot.

Air Fryer Instructions

Prepare the Brussels sprouts.
Place the quartered Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and hot honey, then season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss them until they are well-coated.
Air fry.
Transfer the Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them crispy, golden brown, and tender.
Serve with toppings.
Once done, finish with a drizzle of hot honey, crumbled feta, and chopped chives for a flavorful touch.

Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a side dish: Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a well-rounded meal.
In a salad: Use roasted Brussels sprouts as a base for a salad. Toss with arugula, quinoa, and sliced almonds for added crunch.
On a grain bowl: Combine them with brown rice or farro, add some chickpeas, and top with a tahini dressing for a filling vegetarian meal.
As an appetizer: Serve them as finger food at your next gathering; they’re a tasty treat that your guests will rave about!

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

To achieve the best results with your Brussels sprouts, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet or air fryer basket to ensure they roast rather than steam.
Keep the heat high: Roasting at a high temperature helps caramelize the sprouts and enhances their natural sweetness.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and quality olive oil will significantly improve the flavor of your dish.
Experiment with honey type: If you prefer less heat, consider using regular honey instead of hot honey, or adjust the amount to your liking.
Taste while cooking: Check the seasoning after roasting; you can always add a pinch more salt or honey to suit your taste.

Easy Variations for Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

Feel free to get creative with your Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts! Here are some easy variations:

Add nuts: Toss in some almonds or walnuts before roasting for added texture.
Include bacon: For a savory touch, add crispy bacon bits.
Try different cheeses: Substitute feta with goat cheese, parmesan, or blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
Add spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Herbs: Try adding rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Storage Tips to Store Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

If you have leftovers (although they are often so delicious that there aren’t any!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Let the Brussels sprouts cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. For a crispy texture, consider reheating in an air fryer.
Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze leftover sprouts if needed. Just be sure to store them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for about 2 months, but the texture may change upon thawing.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts combine the best of sweet and spicy flavors, making them a must-try dish! Whether you roast them in the oven or use an air fryer, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for any home cook. With easy variations and serving ideas, you can customize this dish to suit every palate and occasion.

When you try this recipe, you’re sure to impress family and friends. They will keep asking for your secret ingredient! So embrace those Brussels sprouts, and let their versatility shine in your kitchen.

FAQs About Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may release more moisture during cooking, which could affect the texture. Be sure to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are crispy.

2. What if I don’t have hot honey?
If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a little hot sauce to create your own spicy-sweet version.

3. How do I ensure my Brussels sprouts are crispy?
Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet or in the air fryer basket to help them roast evenly without steaming.

4. Can I make these sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and warm them up in the oven before serving. Drizzle with extra hot honey right before serving for the best flavor.

5. Are Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian-friendly. To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.