Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze and Crispy Pancetta

Easy Christmas Side Dishes Balsamic Sprouts with Pancetta

By Amara Vitalis September 19, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered what to serve alongside your Christmas roast? I bet you're searching for easy christmas side dishes. These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are seriously addictive, and will have everyone asking for seconds.

Brief Overview

Brussels sprouts are a staple! But often, they get a bad rap. This recipe is perfect. It takes about 40 minutes. This recipe makes 6 servings.

Main Benefits

Want something healthy and festive? These are packed with goodness. They’re also a Christmas dinner win. What makes them special? The tangy glaze.

Oh My Gosh! The Best Christmas Side Dish Recipes Easy

Seriously, these aren't your grandma's boiled sprouts. We're talking crispy, flavour packed goodness. Think crispy pancetta brussels sprouts , balsamic, and total deliciousness. Honestly, they're a game changer.

A Fail Proof Easy Holiday Side Dishes

I used to hate cooking sprouts. But then I discovered roasting. Now? They're a must have on my table. This recipe is inspired by Delia Smith herself.

Easy to follow and hard to mess up.

**Simple Brussels Sprouts Christmas Dinner Magic**

This recipe is surprisingly quick. The balsamic glaze is the key. It's sweet, tangy, and coats the sprouts perfectly. Plus, Quick Christmas Vegetable Sides , you can even make parts of it ahead.

That Balsamic Glaze tho ... Seriously, The Star of These Balsamic Glazed Vegetables Christmas

My first attempt at the glaze was a disaster. I burnt it! Tip: Watch it like a hawk. Low and slow is the key here.

Get Ahead with These make-ahead Christmas Sides

Prep the sprouts and pancetta early. Then, just roast and glaze before serving. Easy peasy, right?

Simple Festive Side Dishes That Everyone Will Love

Even the sprout haters will be converted. The secret? Crispy pancetta. It adds a salty, savory crunch. It is that good.

Christmas Side Dishes Vegetarian Option ? Gotcha!

Skip the pancetta. Add toasted nuts for a crunch. Walnuts or pecans would work great. Also, you can use bacon if you do not find pancetta!

Honestly, these sprouts are a Christmas miracle.

Let's Talk Sprouts: Ingredients and Kit

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Want easy Christmas side dishes ? Then let's make sure we're all on the same page with what you need.

This ain't rocket science, promise! Honestly, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze will be the star!

The Goods: Main Ingredients

Here is what you need to make it, measurements and all:

Brussels sprouts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Fresh, firm, and bright green is what you want. Avoid sprouts with yellowing or wilting leaves.
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (45ml) . Extra virgin is best for flavor, but regular is fine.
Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon (3g) . A good pinch!
Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1.5g) . Freshly ground if you can!
Pancetta: 4 ounces (113g) , diced. Look for good marbling of fat. Bacon works too.
Balsamic vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . A decent quality one makes a difference.
Honey: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Runny honey is easiest to work with.

I like to group the ingredients by when you need them. Makes things easier. You know?

Flavours Bombs: Seasoning Notes

It's all about that sweet and savoury combo here. Balsamic and honey are magic. Don't be shy with the salt and pepper.

Essential spice combinations: Salt and pepper are key. They enhance the sprouts' natural flavour.
Flavour enhancers and aromatics: Balsamic vinegar and honey create a delicious glaze. They add tanginess and sweetness.
Quick substitution options: No balsamic? Try red wine vinegar with a pinch of brown sugar. No honey? Maple syrup is a great swap. These Christmas Side Dish Recipes Easy are easily adaptable.

Gear Up: Equipment Needed

No need for fancy gadgets here. Keep it simple!

Large baking sheet: Essential for roasting those sprouts. Don't overcrowd them!
Large bowl: For tossing the sprouts with oil and seasonings.
Small saucepan: For making the glaze. A microwave safe bowl works too.
Common household alternatives: Don’t have a baking sheet? Use a large roasting pan. A regular bowl is fine if you don't have a "large" one. For vegetarian friends and those looking for a Christmas Side Dishes Vegetarian Option , simply skip the pancetta! You can add some toasted nuts for crunch instead.

Honestly? Crispy Pancetta Brussels Sprouts are a game changer. Even sprout haters will be converted. You can even get ahead by prepping the sprouts the day before, making this one of the most easy holiday side dishes .

Trust me, this recipe is a winner for the Brussels Sprouts Christmas Dinner . I've made this dish so many times, and it's always a hit! It's one of my go-to quick Christmas vegetable sides - and such a winner.

With its balsamic glaze, and perfectly roasted sprouts, this is a sure way to deliver a Balsamic Glazed Vegetables Christmas .

This is definitely one of those simple festive side dishes everyone will love. So get those ingredients ready, because these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are about to become a Christmas tradition!

Cooking Method: Roasting Brussels Sprouts Like a Pro

Want easy christmas side dishes that are actually good ? Forget those sad, soggy sprouts you had as a kid. Seriously. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are a game changer.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Mise en place, darling! It’s French for "everything in its place." Chop 1.5 lbs (680g) of sprouts in half and dice 4 ounces (113g) of pancetta.

Measure out 3 tablespoons (45ml) of olive oil, 0.5 teaspoon (3g) of salt, 0.25 teaspoon (1.5g) of pepper, 2 tablespoons (30ml) of balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon (15ml) of honey.

Having everything ready saves time and stress. Safety first! Remember to wash the sprouts before you start chopping.

step-by-step to Sprout Perfection

Heat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
Toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread them on a baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd!
Roast for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway. Look for golden brown edges.
While roasting, cook the pancetta until crispy in a dry pan. Drain it on paper towels.
Make the balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar and honey for 3- 5 minutes until thickened.
Toss the roasted sprouts with the glaze.
Sprinkle crispy pancetta on top. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Amazing Sprouts

Don't overcrowd the pan, or they steam instead of roast. High heat is your friend for crispy edges . Watch that glaze! It burns easily.

For a Christmas Side Dishes Vegetarian Option , skip the pancetta and add toasted nuts. This recipe for Crispy Pancetta Brussels Sprouts is a sure winner! And if you are looking for Simple Festive Side Dishes this will be one of your go-tos.

The Balsamic Glazed Vegetables Christmas element makes this recipe very delicious.

Recipe Notes for Easy Christmas Side Dishes

These roasted Brussels sprouts are a game changer, trust me. Honestly, if I can make these, anyone can. They're one of my favourite easy christmas side dishes .

I used to HATE sprouts, but this recipe converted me. I think you will enjoy it too!

Serving like a Pro

Presentation matters, even for easy holiday side dishes . Think vibrant colours. Serve these sprouts in a nice bowl. A sprinkle of extra crispy pancetta on top looks great.

They pair perfectly with roast turkey or ham. Try creamy mashed potatoes too. A simple green salad also works. Serve a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, with this dish.

Storing for Later

These sprouts are best fresh. However, leftovers can be kept in the fridge. Use an airtight container. They'll last for about 3 days.

You can freeze them. However, they might get a bit soggy. Reheat in the oven for best results. Spread them on a baking sheet.

Heat at 350° F ( 175° C) until warm. Microwaving also works. Be careful not to overcook them.

Getting Creative with the Recipe

Want to adapt this recipe? No problem. For a vegetarian version, skip the pancetta. Add toasted nuts instead. Pecans or walnuts would be delicious.

For a sweeter glaze, use maple syrup. This balsamic glazed vegetables christmas recipe is very adaptable. Also, bacon works great instead of pancetta.

Nutrition Lowdown

Okay, let's keep it simple. These sprouts are good for you! They are packed with vitamins and fiber. The balsamic glaze adds some sugar, but not too much.

Pancetta adds fat and protein. Overall, it’s a balanced and tasty dish. Plus, Brussels sprouts can help your digestion. Isn't that great?

These roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are more than just a side. They're a star. And they’re an easy christmas side dish recipes easy enough for everyone.

Don't be afraid to try it. It’s a perfect addition to your christmas dinner. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My Brussels sprouts always come out soggy. What am I doing wrong?

Ah, the dreaded soggy sprout! The key is to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Think of it like a packed tube on the London Underground no room to breathe! Give those sprouts space to roast properly, and make sure your oven is nice and hot (around 400°F/200°C).

A single layer ensures they get crispy edges rather than steaming.

I'm looking for easy Christmas side dishes. Can I make this ahead of time?

While these Roasted Brussels Sprouts are best served fresh for that perfect crispy tender texture, you can prep some of the components ahead. You can trim and halve the sprouts a day in advance and store them in the fridge. The pancetta can be cooked and crisped ahead of time as well.

Reheat the pancetta and cook the sprouts right before serving for the best results.

I don't have pancetta. What can I substitute for the crispy pancetta in these easy christmas side dishes?

No worries, mate! If you can't find pancetta, crispy bacon makes a fantastic substitute just chop it up and cook it the same way. For a vegetarian option, toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the balsamic glaze.

You could even try some crispy fried halloumi for a salty kick!

The balsamic glaze burned! How can I prevent this next time?

Balsamic glaze can be a bit temperamental, like a diva on stage! The key is low and slow heat. Whether you're using a saucepan or the microwave, keep a close eye on it and stir frequently. The glaze should thicken slightly, like a thin syrup, but not bubble excessively.

If it starts to burn, remove it from the heat immediately and add a splash of water to stop the cooking process.

Are these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze and Pancetta a healthy option for my Christmas dinner?

Compared to some richer Christmas fare, these sprouts offer a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses. The pancetta does add fat and sodium, so you can reduce the amount used or even omit it entirely for a lighter dish.

Consider the serving size and balance the dish with other healthy options on your Christmas table.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this easy Christmas side dishes recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen in a pinch. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before roasting. This will help to remove excess moisture and prevent them from steaming. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.