If you’re looking for the perfect side dish, Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash is the answer. It’s a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. The earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts and the natural sweetness of butternut squash are enhanced with a rich maple glaze. This dish is ideal for holiday dinners or any meal where you want a standout vegetable side.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make this dish step by step. I’ll also share tips, variations, and nutritional information. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
This dish is simple to make, but it’s bursting with flavor. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Seasonal Ingredients: Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are fall and winter staples. They are fresh, affordable, and full of nutrients.
- Balanced Flavors: The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the roasted vegetables provide a savory depth.
- Perfect for Holidays: This side dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, making it perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this dish is both quick and impressive.
For another delicious holiday side dish, you might enjoy this Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole from MarlaRecipes. It’s a hearty option that pairs well with the sweet and savory flavor profile of your roasted vegetables.
Ingredients for Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Squash
To make this dish, you only need a few simple ingredients:
- Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half for even roasting.
- Butternut Squash: Peel and cube the squash into 1-inch pieces. Its natural sweetness balances the savory sprouts.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the glaze. It caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- Olive Oil: This helps the vegetables crisp up during roasting.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring out the best flavors.
- Optional Add-Ins: For extra texture, consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts after roasting.
For a perfect complement to these ingredients, check out the Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice recipe. It’s another great way to feature bold flavors with a balance of creamy and tangy notes.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
This recipe is easy to follow and yields perfect results every time. Here’s how to make it:
1. Prep the Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the Brussels sprouts and peel the butternut squash. Cut them into even pieces to ensure they roast uniformly. Place the vegetables on a large baking sheet.
2. Season and Glaze
Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk the maple syrup with a little more olive oil. Pour this glaze over the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated.
3. Roast the Vegetables
Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should be golden brown and caramelized when done.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving dish. If you want, add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Serve warm as a side dish.
For additional vegetable roasting tips, you can explore Bon Appétit’s Guide to Perfect Roasted Vegetables.
Tips for Making the Best Maple-Glazed Vegetables
While this recipe is straightforward, these tips will help you make the best glazed Brussels sprouts and squash every time:
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause the vegetables to steam rather than roast, which results in a soggy texture.
2. Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts
Fresh Brussels sprouts give you the best results. They should be firm and bright green. Avoid frozen sprouts, as they tend to become mushy when roasted.
3. Stir Midway
Halfway through roasting, stir the vegetables to ensure even caramelization. This helps the maple syrup coat all sides of the vegetables evenly.
4. Add a Crunch
If you like a bit of texture, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the vegetables right before serving. The nuts add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Variations of Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Squash
This dish is versatile and can be adapted in various ways. Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Spicy Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the maple syrup glaze for a spicy-sweet combination. The heat pairs beautifully with the roasted vegetables.
2. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash
For a savory twist, add crumbled bacon to the roasted vegetables. The crispy bacon adds a salty contrast to the sweet glaze.
3. Cranberry Maple Roasted Vegetables
Toss in dried cranberries after roasting for a burst of sweetness. The cranberries add a tart element that balances the richness of the maple glaze.
For more ideas on incorporating cranberries into your dishes, check out Delish’s guide on cooking with cranberries.
Nutritional Information for Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for this dish:
- Calories: 180-220 per serving
- Fat: 7-10g (from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 25g (from the vegetables and maple syrup)
- Fiber: 5g (from Brussels sprouts and butternut squash)
- Protein: 3g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and fiber. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamin C and K, while butternut squash provides beta-carotene and potassium.
Serving Suggestions for Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
This side dish pairs well with many main courses. Here are some ideas for serving it:
1. Roasted Chicken or Turkey
The sweetness of the maple glaze pairs perfectly with roasted poultry. This makes it an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
2. Pork Tenderloin
The natural sweetness of butternut squash and the savory flavor of Brussels sprouts complement the richness of pork tenderloin.
3. Grain Bowls
For a vegetarian option, serve the roasted vegetables over a bed of quinoa or farro. Add some crumbled goat cheese or feta for extra flavor.
4. Steak
The sweet and savory flavors of the vegetables work well with grilled or roasted steak, adding a touch of sweetness to a hearty meal.
For more creative side dishes, check out The Kitchn’s guide to unique vegetable sides.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Here are some common questions about this dish, along with answers that will help you troubleshoot or adapt the recipe:
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving. The vegetables will retain their crispness if reheated properly.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze the roasted vegetables, they may lose some texture after thawing. For the best results, store leftovers in the fridge and consume within three days.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes or carrots. These root vegetables also pair beautifully with maple syrup and Brussels sprouts.
Final Thoughts on Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash is a simple, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. The sweet maple syrup glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, while the roasted vegetables become tender and delicious. This dish is a great addition to your holiday table or any weeknight dinner.
With easy preparation, healthy ingredients, and plenty of flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, you’ll enjoy the sweet and savory balance of these roasted vegetables.
Try it out and let me know how it turns out! Feel free to share your own twists on the recipe in the comments below.