Smoked Alabama Honey Glazed Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical that happens when fresh vegetables hit a searing hot grill, and Brussels sprouts are the perfect candidate for this culinary alchemy. Often misunderstood as a bland boiled vegetable, the Brussels sprout transforms into a nutty, caramelized masterpiece when cooked over an open fire. In this recipe, we are elevating the humble sprout by pairing it with a Southern staple: Alabama White Sauce, enhanced with a sticky, sweet honey glaze. The high heat of the grill creates crispy, charred edges that act as the perfect texture contrast to the creamy, tangy sauce. This dish is not just a side; it is a flavor experience that balances the richness of mayonnaise, the sharp bite of vinegar, and the floral sweetness of honey. Whether you are cooking on an Arteflame flat top or a standard grate, this recipe ensures that every bite is packed with smoky depth and Southern comfort. It is designed to convert even the staunchest Brussels sprout skeptics into believers.

Ingredients

The Brussels Sprouts

• 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or bacon fat for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

The Alabama Honey Glaze

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey (local wildflower honey is best)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp horseradish (optional, for a kick)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sprouts

1. Begin by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly in cold water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel; removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a good sear rather than steaming them.
2. Trim the woody stems off the bottom and remove any yellow or loose outer leaves.
3. Slice each sprout in half vertically through the root. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using an Arteflame, build a medium fire in the center to get the flat cooktop hot. You want a temperature range of about 400°F to 450°F (200°C-230°C).
2. Ensure the cooking surface is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, though the oil on the sprouts will help.

Step 3: Sear and Char

1. Place the Brussels sprouts on the grill, cut-side down. This is the most important step for texture. Do not move them for at least 3-5 minutes. You are looking for a deep golden-brown char on the flat surface.
2. Once the cut sides are caramelized, flip the sprouts over. Continue grilling for another 5-8 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they are tender when pierced with a fork but still retain a slight crunch.
3. Move them to a cooler zone of the grill if they are browning too quickly but aren't yet tender inside.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. While the sprouts are finishing on the grill, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, horseradish, cayenne, and lemon juice.
2. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The consistency should be thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to cling to the vegetables.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

1. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the grill and place them immediately into a clean serving bowl.
2. While they are still piping hot, pour the Alabama Honey Glaze over the sprouts.
3. Toss gently to ensure every sprout is coated in the creamy, sweet sauce. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips

Achieving the perfect grilled Brussels sprout requires a balance of heat and timing. The most common mistake people make is overcrowding the grill or moving the sprouts too frequently. To get that restaurant-quality crust, you must let them sit undisturbed on the hot surface cut-side down. If you are using an Arteflame grill, utilize the different heat zones on the cooktop; sear them near the center where the heat is highest, then move them to the outer edges to roast through without burning. Additionally, size matters. Try to select sprouts that are relatively uniform in size so they cook at the same rate. If you have some very large ones, quarter them instead of halving them to ensure the center cooks before the outside burns. Finally, don't sauce them until the very last second before serving to keep the texture crispy.

Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences or flavor profiles. While the Alabama style leans creamy and tangy, you can easily tweak the ingredients to match the rest of your meal. Here are a few popular ways to remix this dish:

• The Smoky Bacon Twist: Fry up chopped bacon on the grill alongside the sprouts, then crumble the crispy bits into the final dish for a salty, savory crunch.
• Spicy Kick: Double the cayenne pepper in the sauce or add a tablespoon of Sriracha to the glaze for a heat that builds with every bite.
• Maple Balsamic: Swap the honey for pure maple syrup and replace the white sauce base with a balsamic glaze reduction for a dairy-free, earthier option.
• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pecans or walnuts to the final toss to introduce a texture that complements the softness of the cooked sprouts.
• Cheesy Finish: Grate fresh Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over the hot, glazed sprouts right before serving for an umami boost.

Best pairings

These Alabama Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts are robust enough to stand alongside rich meats but elegant enough to accompany lighter fare. Because of the creamy, tangy nature of the white sauce, they cut through the fat of heavier proteins beautifully. They are the quintessential side dish for a backyard BBQ or a holiday feast. To create a balanced menu, consider serving these alongside dishes that benefit from a side with acidity and sweetness. The char on the sprouts mirrors the char on grilled meats, creating a cohesive flavor profile across the plate.

• Grilled Ribeye Steak: The creamy sauce complements the rich marbling of a good steak.
• Smoked Chicken or Turkey: Alabama white sauce was originally made for chicken, making this a historically accurate and delicious pairing.
• Pork Chops: The sweetness of the honey glaze pairs exceptionally well with the savory notes of grilled pork.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes: If you are looking for a starch, simple herb-roasted potatoes let the sprouts shine as the star flavor.

Conclusion

This Alabama Honey Glazed Grilled Brussels Sprouts recipe changes the narrative on a vegetable that is too often overlooked. By combining the high-heat searing capabilities of the grill with a sauce that hits every taste bud—sweet, tangy, creamy, and savory—you create a dish that is addictive and memorable. It captures the essence of Southern BBQ culture, where simple ingredients are elevated through technique and bold flavors. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting a large outdoor gathering, this side dish is guaranteed to disappear quickly. Fire up the grill, get that perfect char, and enjoy the incredible fusion of smoky sprouts and sweet Alabama gold. It is time to make Brussels sprouts the highlight of your barbecue.