Name: Copycat Red Lobster Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed & halved; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey); 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled (optional); 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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If you love the crispy, sweet, and savory Brussels sprouts served at Red Lobster, you can now recreate them in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe! These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection with a crispy outer layer, and then glazed with a delicious combination of butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar for a sweet and savory flavor. The addition of bacon and Parmesan cheese takes the dish to a whole new level, making it the perfect side dish for any meal.

Not only are these Brussels sprouts incredibly flavorful, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or just want a tasty side to pair with your weeknight dinner, this Copycat Red Lobster Brussels Sprouts recipe will become your new go-to. The balance of flavors in this dish is perfectly executed, and it’s sure to be a hit with both Brussels sprouts lovers and skeptics alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: healthy Brussels sprouts and a rich, indulgent glaze. Roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their crispy texture, while the glaze adds a rich, savory-sweet flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly. The added touch of crispy bacon and Parmesan cheese gives this dish an extra burst of flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s the perfect side dish for just about any main course and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts:

Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

For the Glaze:

Butter
Brown sugar (or honey)
Soy sauce
Balsamic vinegar
Garlic powder
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Topping:

Bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Variations

Vegan Version: Skip the butter and replace it with a vegan butter alternative. Omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute.
Sweetened Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or honey to taste.
No Bacon: For a lighter version, simply skip the bacon and top with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, try topping the Brussels sprouts with chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out in an even layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar (or honey), soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.

Step 3: Toss the Brussels Sprouts in the Glaze

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat them evenly.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve

If you’re using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the Brussels sprouts. Add grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the Brussels sprouts warm as a side dish, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Roast Until Crispy: For the best texture, make sure the Brussels sprouts are well-roasted and crispy. This enhances the flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch.
Check for Doneness: If the Brussels sprouts are not crispy enough after the initial roasting time, give them a few extra minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Glaze Consistency: If you want a thicker glaze, let it simmer for a little longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Bacon Tip: If you’re cooking the bacon yourself, make sure it’s crispy before crumbling it for the topping. This will add the perfect crunch to the dish.

How to Serve

These Copycat Red Lobster Brussels Sprouts are perfect as a side dish for a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or even pasta dishes. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings or holiday meals. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the glaze separate if possible, as it may soften the Brussels sprouts over time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, but if you must use frozen Brussels sprouts, make sure to thaw and drain them before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the glaze ahead of time. Store them separately and then toss them together and add the toppings right before serving.

3. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian version.

4. How do I get the Brussels sprouts crispy?

Make sure to roast them in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If needed, roast them for a little longer to get the crispy edges.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the glaze?

You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different.

6. How can I make the glaze thicker?

Simmer the glaze for a little longer to reduce it further and thicken it to your desired consistency.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?

Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as asiago, pecorino, or cheddar, but Parmesan works best for the classic flavor.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure the glaze is gluten-free.

9. Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, but it will give the glaze a different flavor.

10. How do I make this dish vegan?

Use dairy-free butter, skip the bacon, and use a vegan cheese substitute for the topping.

Conclusion

This Copycat Red Lobster Brussels Sprouts recipe brings the famous dish straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. The crispy Brussels sprouts combined with the sweet and savory glaze, topped with bacon and Parmesan, make for an irresistible side dish that will impress anyone. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty main course or enjoying it as a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next meal.