Delicious Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Looking for a healthy side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and anything but boring? These Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts combine sweet maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, toasted nuts, dried cranberries and crumbled Feta for a crave-worthy fall recipe everyone will love.

Maple roasted Brussel sprouts are a lot more flavorful and colorful than plain steamed Brussel sprouts. The Maple syrup glaze enhances the caramelization process and adds a pleasing sweetness. Dijon mustard in the glaze adds depth and tang. And the smoked paprika brings in the warmth. Of course you also have the crunchy nuts, sweet cranberries and piquant Feta crumbles on top to really bring your sprouts up to the mark.

Even Brussels sprout skeptics will love the flavor and texture of this simple side dish. It makes a pretty side for the fall holiday table too.

Troubleshooting Guide For Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts Recipe

This is a simple, straightforward recipe. However, even simple recipes can behave differently depending on your oven, pan, or ingredients. Here’s how to fix common problems so your Brussels sprouts come out perfectly crispy, golden, and flavorful every time. Here’s a section you need to study before continuing to the recipe.

Brussels Sprouts Burned or Too Dark:

This happened to me once. I used my new oven to make this recipe the first time on convection roast. The sprouts charred in the first half of the bake. Be sure you know your oven and all the settings so you don’t have unhappy results.

Some reasons for over browning maple roasted Brussel sprouts:

• Oven temperature too high for your setting (especially with convection roast).
• Maple glaze applied too early, causing sugars to burn.
• Pan too close to upper heating element.

How to Fix:

• If using convection, lower the temp to 400°F and start checking at 15–18 minutes.
• Avoid the convection roast setting for this recipe.
• Add the maple glaze during the last 5–8 minutes of cooking.
• Keep your pan on the middle rack, not the top one.

Sprouts Too Soft or Mushy

Likely Causes:

• Overcrowded pan — steam builds up instead of crisping.
• Sprouts not cut evenly (halves vs. quarters).
• Too much glaze or oil.

How to Fix:

• Spread sprouts in a single layer with space between pieces.
• Use two baking sheets if needed.
• Pat sprouts dry before glazing.
• Toss lightly — they should be coated, not swimming, in the glaze.

Undercooked Centers

Likely Causes:

• Large sprouts roasted at too high a heat (outside browns before inside softens).
• Not enough roasting time.

How to Fix:

This applies if your sprouts are unevenly sized.

• Cut large sprouts into quarters for even cooking.
• Reduce oven temp slightly and roast longer (about 5 more minutes).
• Test with a fork — it should glide in easily.

Pro Tips for Consistent Success

• Be sure to carefully inspect your Brussel sprouts. Trim off all the brown stem and leaves before roasting for a cleaner flavor.
• Dry sprouts thoroughly after washing — moisture prevents crisping and can make it difficult to get the glaze to stick onto the sprouts.
• Use light-colored baking sheets to avoid over-browning.
• Line pans with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even caramelization.

Variation Ideas For Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts:

You can use so many variations on this recipe. Try different nuts, like pecans or change up the cheese for new flavor profiles. Or try these ideas…

• Add bacon: Stir in crispy bacon bits before serving.
• Make it vegan: Omit the feta or use a dairy-free substitute.
• Add spice: This recipe uses smoked paprika which adds smoky depth. For a bit more heat try Sprinkling with red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili-infused honey. Be sure to taste test your version to make sure you like your results.
• Nut-free version: Replace the chopped nuts with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Pair these maple Dijon Brussels sprouts with:

• Roast chicken or turkey for a comforting fall dinner.
• Grilled steak or salmon for a restaurant-quality meal.
• Brown rice quinoa blend for a wholesome vegetarian option.

More Great Fall Recipes:

• Savory Pumpkin Chili Recipe
• Buttermilk Brined Turkey
• Holiday Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe