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Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Cubed Sweet Potatoes with Optional Maple Balsamic Glaze

A simple, high-heat method for achieving crispy, caramelized sheet-pan vegetables. This recipe focuses on achieving tender sweet potatoes and crispy Brussels sprouts, enhanced by an optional sweet and tangy maple-balsamic glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Calories: 265

Ingredients
  

Produce
  • 2 large Sweet Potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes
  • 1.5 pounds fresh Brussels Sprouts trimmed and halved lengthwise (quarter any very large sprouts)
Fats & Seasonings
  • 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher Salt divided
  • ½ teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder optional
Optional Glaze
  • 1 Tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup optional, for added caramelization
  • 1 teaspoon Balsamic Vinegar optional, adds depth of flavor

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Large, Heavy-Duty Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Oven and Vegetables
  1. Preheat the Oven: Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to a high temperature of 400°F (200°C). Line a large, heavy-duty baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Season the Vegetables: Place the cubed sweet potatoes and trimmed/halved Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Uniformity in size (1-inch cubes) is critical for even roasting.
  3. Oil and Spice: Drizzle the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the vegetables. Add 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, the black pepper, and the optional garlic powder. Toss vigorously using your hands or a spatula until every piece is lightly coated.
Step 2: Roasting Intervals
  1. First Roast Interval: Transfer the seasoned vegetables to the prepared baking sheet. It is crucial to spread them out in a true single layer without overcrowding (use two sheets if necessary). Roast for 15 minutes without stirring.
  2. Mid-Way Stir: After 15 minutes, carefully remove the sheet from the oven. Use a metal spatula to scrape the vegetables off the pan and thoroughly toss or flip them. Return the sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and Serve
  1. Apply Optional Glaze (If Desired): Check for tenderness (sweet potatoes should be fork-tender and sprouts should have crispy edges). If glazing, remove the pan, drizzle the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar evenly over the hot vegetables, and toss quickly to coat. Return to the oven for a final 3 to 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
  2. Serve: Remove the finished roasted vegetables from the oven. Taste and sprinkle the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt over the mixture, if needed. Serve immediately while the exterior of the sprouts is still crispy.

Notes

Do not skip the step of ensuring the vegetables are in a single layer; overcrowding is the number one cause of soggy roasted vegetables. For extra crispy sprouts, ensure the cut side is facing down during the first 15 minutes of roasting.