Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts Recipe

You know those nights when you’re torn between staying in and craving that one dish from your favorite sports bar? That’s exactly how I found myself recreating the famous Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts recipe.

After countless evenings at this Atlanta gem, I realized no other spot quite captures the magic of these brussels sprouts—crispy, golden, and tossed in a tangy-sweet honey balsamic sauce. Taco Mac somehow took a vegetable most of us side-eyed growing up and turned it into a dish worth obsessing over.

Whether it’s the addictive flavor or the perfect crunch-to-tender ratio, this recipe brings that same sports bar magic home. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll understand why it’s the go-to for Taco Mac regulars.

Why You Will Love This Homemade Version?

1. Deliciously Roasted Flavor: The Brussels sprouts roast to perfection, creating a nutty, caramelized taste with crispy edges.
2. Balanced Sauce: The honey balsamic sauce adds the ideal mix of sweetness and tanginess, enhancing every bite.
3. Versatile Pairing: Complements a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to hearty pasta.
4. Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for both beginner and experienced cooks.

What’s in Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts?

For this Brussels Sprouts Recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs brussels sprouts – Make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps roast the sprouts to golden perfection.
• Salt and pepper to taste – I used 1 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy depth of flavor to the glaze.
• 1 tbsp honey – Sweetens the balsamic sauce and balances the flavors.

Recipe Substitutions

If you want to change up the flavors or make this recipe your own, here are a few substitutions you can try:

• Olive oil: You can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.
• Honey: If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup.
• Balsamic vinegar: Red wine vinegar can work as an alternative if you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, though it will have a slightly different flavor.

Kitchen Appliances Needed

For this Taco Mac Brussel Sprouts Recipe, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

1. Sharp knife: To trim and slice the brussels sprouts.
2. Large mixing bowl: To toss the sprouts with olive oil and seasonings.
3. Baking pan: For roasting the sprouts in the oven.
4. Oven: Preheated to 425°F to ensure perfect roasting.

How To Make Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts

Step 1 | Prepare the Brussel Sprouts

Start by washing the brussels sprouts thoroughly. Once washed, dry them completely with a towel. It’s important to dry them well so they roast properly instead of steaming.

Step 2 | Trim and Slice

Trim the bottom of each brussels sprout and slice them in half lengthwise. This will help them cook evenly and get a nice crisp on the edges.

Step 3 | Season the Sprouts

Transfer the sliced brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to toss everything together, making sure the sprouts are evenly coated.

Step 4 | Roast in the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil for easy clean-up. Spread the brussels sprouts in a single layer, with the cut side facing down. Place the pan in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 5 | Prepare the Sauce

While the sprouts are roasting, make the honey balsamic sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved and set aside.

Step 6 | Toss the Sprouts

Once the brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Pour the honey balsamic sauce over them and toss until well coated.

Step 7 | Serve and Enjoy

Serve the roasted brussels sprouts immediately. They are best when fresh and hot, with a perfect combination of crispy edges and tender interiors.

Recipe Notes

• Make sure to dry the brussels sprouts thoroughly before roasting. Any excess water can cause them to steam instead of roast.
• You can adjust the salt and pepper to your taste preferences. Start with the amounts suggested and add more if you like.
• The brussels sprouts get even crispier if you make sure they are in a single layer and not crowded on the baking pan.

Recipe Variations and Additions

1. Add Garlic: For extra flavor, try adding some minced garlic to the brussels sprouts before roasting.
2. Cheese: After tossing the sprouts in the honey balsamic sauce, sprinkle with some grated parmesan cheese for a savory touch.
3. Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

Taco Mac Brussel Sprouts pair beautifully with various dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Serve them alongside:

1. Grilled Meats: Their bold flavors complement smoky grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
2. Roasted Chicken: The crispy sprouts add texture and a tangy twist to tender, savory chicken.
3. Hearty Pasta Dishes: Perfect with creamy or tomato-based pastas for a balanced plate.
4. Mashed Potatoes: A comforting option that enhances the sprouts’ zesty seasoning.
5. Light Salads: Pair with fresh greens for a lighter, refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy their delicious flavors even later.

Reheating Methods

To reheat Taco Mac Brussel Sprouts, use the oven to regain their crispy texture or the microwave for convenience. While the oven maintains their original crunch, the microwave is quicker but may soften the sprouts. Choose the method that best fits your time and texture preferences.

Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make Taco Mac Brussel Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the brussel sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

2. Can I use frozen brussel sprouts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh brussel sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Frozen brussel sprouts can become mushy when roasted.

3. How can I make the sauce sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, simply add a bit more honey or maple syrup to the balsamic mixture.

4. How long do I roast brussel sprouts for?

Roast them for 20-25 minutes at 425°F until the edges are crispy and golden.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size as the brussel sprouts to ensure even cooking.

6. How do I prevent brussel sprouts from being soggy?

Make sure to dry the brussel sprouts well before roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan.

7. Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Just store the leftovers in an airtight container and reheat when needed.

Continue to Content

Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Yield: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Crispy Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts recipe with tangy honey balsamic glaze. Perfectly roasted, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Ideal side dish or snack!

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts – washed and dried thoroughly
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste (1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper suggested)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and dry them completely with a towel to ensure proper roasting.
2. Trim and Slice: Trim the bottoms of each Brussels sprout and slice them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
3. Season the Sprouts: Transfer the sliced Brussels sprouts to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast in the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer, cut side down, on the pan. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the edges.
5. Prepare the Sauce: While the sprouts are roasting, mix 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp honey in a small bowl until the honey dissolves.
6. Toss the Sprouts: Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Drizzle the honey balsamic sauce over the sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 140Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 250mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 4gSugar: 8gProtein: 3g

Conclusion

I truly hope you try the Taco Mac Brussels Sprouts Recipe for your next meal. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the natural flavors of brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with me, and feel free to experiment with the recipe to make it your own. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas!