Delicious Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Are Your Brussels Sprouts Always a Bit of a Letdown?

Let’s be honest, for many, Brussels sprouts evoke childhood nightmares of mushy, bitter greens. But what if we told you that with a few simple techniques and a touch of sweet and savory magic, those dreaded little cabbages could transform into your new favorite side dish? Data shows that roasting vegetables can increase their natural sweetness and develop a delightful caramelization, dramatically improving their flavor profile. Our Delicious Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is designed to tackle that common aversion head-on, promising a side that’s crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive. Forget bland and boring; get ready for a sprout revelation.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Each element plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory, with an irresistible crispy texture.

• 1.5 lbs Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves. The smaller ones tend to be sweeter, while the larger ones offer more surface area for that delightful crisp.
• 4-6 slices Turkey Bacon: We’re opting for turkey bacon for a leaner, slightly less greasy base that still provides that essential salty crunch. (Regular bacon or even pancetta can be used for a richer flavor.)
• 4 tablespoons Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will lend a subtle fruity note and help achieve that coveted crispy exterior. (Avocado oil is another excellent high-heat option.)
• 2-3 tablespoons Honey: The star of our glaze! Use a good quality, mild honey like clover or wildflower. The sweetness balances the slight bitterness of the sprouts. (Maple syrup is a fantastic vegan alternative.)
• 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy depth that cuts through the sweetness of the honey and richness of the bacon. (Red wine vinegar can also work in a pinch.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For that foundational savory aroma and taste. (Fresh minced garlic can be substituted, but be mindful it can burn at high heat.)
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key to unlocking all the flavors. Don’t be shy with the pepper!
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle hint of heat that complements the sweet and savory.

Timing is Everything

Compared to many roasting recipes that can take upwards of an hour, this dish comes together relatively quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. The prep involves simple chopping, and the cooking time is optimized for maximum crispiness without overcooking.

Step-by-Step Roasting Perfection

Follow these straightforward steps to achieve sprout perfection every single time. Get ready for those ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from your dinner guests!

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Wash the Brussels sprouts, trim off any tough ends, and remove any yellow or loose outer leaves. For even cooking, cut larger sprouts in half lengthwise. Smaller, uniform sprouts can be left whole, but halving ensures better browning and crisping ability.

2. Crispy Bacon Base

In a large bowl, toss the prepared Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure each sprout is lightly coated. Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Next, cut the turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch). Scatter these pieces evenly among the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. This allows the bacon fat to render and crisp up, infusing the sprouts with savory goodness as they roast.

3. Toss and Season

The key to supremely crispy sprouts is not overcrowding the pan, and ensuring good air circulation. Don’t pile them up! If your baking sheet looks too full, use a second one. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable caramelized exterior rather than steaming them.

4. Roast to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp and beginning to brown and caramelize. The turkey bacon should be starting to crisp up nicely at this stage. You can give the pan a gentle shake halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting, but avoid stirring vigorously which can break up the bacon.

5. Glaze and Finish

While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. Once the sprouts and bacon are nearly done and nicely browned, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the honey-balsamic mixture evenly over the sprouts and bacon. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, just until the glaze is bubbly and coats the sprouts beautifully. Keep a close eye to prevent the honey from burning.

Nutritional Snapshot

This recipe is a good source of fiber, vitamins (particularly C and K), and antioxidants from the Brussels sprouts. The turkey bacon adds protein. Specific nutritional values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, but a typical serving (about 1 cup) is estimated to be:

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
• Protein: 10-15g
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 5-7g

Healthier Swaps, Big Flavor

Making this already healthy dish even healthier is easy without sacrificing taste:

• For the Bacon: Omit the bacon entirely and roast the sprouts with just olive oil and seasonings. Add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts in the last 5 minutes of roasting for crunch.
• For the Honey: Swap honey for sugar-free maple syrup or a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a similar sweet glaze with fewer calories and no added sugar.
• Reduce Oil: Lightly spray the sprouts with cooking spray instead of tossing them in oil, reducing fat content significantly while still aiding crisping.

Serving Suggestions to Impress

These honey glazed Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic accompaniment to:

• Roast Meats: A perfect partner for chicken, pork tenderloin, or steak.
• Holiday Feasts: Elevate your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table.
• Grain Bowls: Add a side of these sprouts to your favorite quinoa or farro bowl for extra flavor and nutrients.
• As a Simple Appetizer: Serve them warm as a delicious small bite at parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of these pitfalls for sprout success:

• Overcrowding the Pan: This leads to steaming, not roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.
• Not Trimming Properly: Tough outer leaves and thick stems can be bitter and unpleasant.
• Under-seasoning: Brussels sprouts need adequate salt and pepper to bring out their best flavors.
• Burning the Honey: The glaze is added at the end for a reason. Watch closely during those final minutes.

Storing Your Sprout Masterpiece

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to help them regain some crispiness. Microwaving will likely result in softer sprouts, but they will still be delicious.

The Final Word

There you have it – a recipe that transforms the humble Brussels sprout into a culinary star. With the perfect balance of sweet honey, savory turkey bacon, and beautifully caramelized sprouts, this dish is sure to become a regular on your menu. So, ditch the fear of mushy greens and embrace the delicious reality of these glazed wonders. Give this recipe a try and prepare to be amazed!

Frequently Asked Questions

***_Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?_***

The most common reason is overcrowding the pan. Ensure sprouts are in a single layer with space around them for air circulation. High heat is also crucial for crisping.

***_Can I make this recipe vegan?_***

Absolutely! Omit the turkey bacon and use maple syrup or a vegan honey alternative. You can add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.

***_Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?_***

Yes, but they may release more moisture. Thaw them completely, pat them very dry with paper towels, and roast at a slightly higher temperature if needed to achieve crispiness.

***_How do I prevent the honey from burning?_***

The key is to add the glaze in the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them during this stage and you can even reduce the oven temperature slightly if they are browning too quickly.

Easy Sheet Pan Taco Pizza for Quick Family Dinners

What is Sheet Pan Taco Pizza?

Are you constantly on the hunt for weeknight dinner solutions that are both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare? If the thought of slaving over multiple pots and pans after a long day makes you sigh, then you’re in the right place! Discover the easiest recipe for a delicious Sheet Pan Taco Pizza. This recipe masterfully combines the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos with the comforting, shareable format of a pizza, all cooked conveniently on a single sheet pan. It’s the ultimate shortcut for busy families craving something exciting without the fuss.

Gather Your Taco Pizza Treasures

The beauty of this sheet pan taco pizza lies in its simplicity and the vibrant medley of flavors. We’re using straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Most ingredients can be found in your pantry or at your local grocery store.

For the “Crust”

• 1 tube (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is our secret weapon for a quick, flaky, and golden base. It bakes up perfectly to hold all the delicious toppings.
  Substitution: 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough for a chewier crust, or even a large, sturdy flour tortilla for a crispy base.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To ensure the dough gets that lovely crisp and prevents sticking.

For the Taco Topping

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles): The hearty foundation of our taco filling. A lean blend is recommended.
  Substitution: For a vegetarian option, use mashed black beans or seasoned lentil crumbles.
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning: The magical blend of spices that brings authentic taco flavor.
  Substitution: Use 2 tablespoons of your favorite homemade taco seasoning blend.
• 1/2 cup water: To help the taco seasoning create a rich sauce.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a creamy texture and fiber. The earthy flavor complements the spices beautifully.
  Substitution: Kidney beans or pinto beans work well too.
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained: The zesty kick and slight heat that makes tacos so irresistible.
  Substitution: Use about 1 cup of diced tomatoes and 1/4 cup of chopped green chilies.

For the Cheesy Finish & Garnish

• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: A melty, flavorful mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby. The gooey cheese pulls are a must!
  Substitution: Use all cheddar or a mix of Monterey Jack and colby.
• Optional Garnishes: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado or guacamole, crushed tortilla chips. These add fresh crunch and creamy richness.

Effortless Timing: From Prep to Plate

Compared to a traditional homemade pizza from scratch, this sheet pan taco pizza is significantly faster, saving you valuable time. Many pizza recipes can take over an hour when you account for dough rising and longer bake times. This 35-40 minute wonder is a game-changer for busy weeknights!

Crafting Your Culinary Masterpiece

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to create a crowd-pleasing meal.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet (approximately 13×18 inches) with parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the pan. Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it onto the prepared baking sheet to form a thin, even crust, pinching any seams together. You can extend it slightly up the edges if you like a small crust border.

Step 2: Brown the Taco Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or your chosen protein) until browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans and the drained Rotel. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Pizza

Evenly spread the warm taco meat mixture over the crescent roll crust, leaving a small border. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese generously over the taco topping. This is where the magic happens – that glorious layer of melty cheese!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned in spots. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Hot

Once out of the oven, let the taco pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly. Now for the fun part: add your favorite taco toppings! Pile on shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a swirl of guacamole. Serve warm and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values vary based on ingredients used (especially fat content of meat and type of cheese), here’s a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 4-6g

Please note: This is an approximate guide. For precise information, calculate using your specific ingredients.

Healthier Twists for Guilt-Free Indulgence

Looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor? Try these swaps:

• Leaner Protein: Opt for ground turkey, chicken breast, or lean ground beef (90% lean or higher).
• Vegetables Galore: Add finely diced bell peppers, onions, or corn to the taco meat mixture for extra nutrients and fiber.
• Whole Wheat Crust: Use a whole wheat crescent roll dough or a whole wheat pizza dough.
• Lighter Cheese: Use a reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese or a smaller amount of your favorite flavorful cheese.
• Greek Yogurt Base: Instead of sour cream, use plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost and creamy tang.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Basics

This sheet pan taco pizza is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with your favorite side dishes:

• A simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette.
• A side of colorful corn salsa.
• Refried beans or a black bean salad.
• A refreshing glass of agua fresca or iced tea.

Avoiding Common Taco Pizza Pitfalls

• Overcrowding the Pan: Resist the urge to pile the toppings too high, especially before baking, as it can lead to an unevenly cooked crust and soggy middle.
• Not Draining Grease: Properly draining the grease from the ground meat is crucial to prevent a greasy pizza.
• Soggy Crust: Ensure your oven is fully preheated and consider pre-baking the crescent roll crust for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings if you’re worried about sogginess. Also, ensure your Rotel and beans are well-drained.
• Skipping the Cool Down: Let the pizza rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese and toppings set, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Storing Your Sheet Pan Taco Pizza

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, toaster oven, or microwave until warmed through. For the best texture, reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.

Your New Go-To Family Dinner

This Easy Sheet Pan Taco Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a solution. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients and smart cooking methods can transform a weeknight dinner into a fiesta. Packed with flavor, customizable to your family’s preferences, and incredibly quick to make, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and let the deliciousness of taco night on a pizza crust delight your taste buds!

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Taco Pizza

• Author: Chef Sara

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Description

A fusion of pizza and tacos, thisEasy Taco Pizzais a quick, family-friendly recipe perfect for game nights or casual dinners. With a flaky crescent roll crust, hearty refried beans, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 40 minutes.

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Ingredients

• For the crust:2(8 oz) cans Pillsbury crescent rolls
• For the filling:1lb ground beef1envelope taco seasoning mix1(16 oz) can refried beansFor the toppings:2–3cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend½ cupchopped tomatoes¼ cupsliced black olives4chopped green onions
• For the toppings:2–3cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend½ cupchopped tomatoes¼ cupsliced black olives4chopped green onions

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Preheat Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2️⃣Cook Ground Beef:In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.3️⃣Add Taco Seasoning:Return the beef to the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning mix with ½–⅔ cup water. Simmer until most of the liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.4️⃣Prepare the Crust:Unroll the crescent rolls into rectangles and press them into an 11.5×16.5 inch jelly roll pan to form the crust. Make sure to press ½ inch up the edges to create a slight border.5️⃣Bake the Crust:Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until golden brown.6️⃣Heat Refried Beans:Microwave the refried beans for about 1 minute to soften.7️⃣Spread Refried Beans:Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the baked crust.8️⃣Layer with Ground Beef:Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the refried beans.9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
3. 3️⃣Add Taco Seasoning:Return the beef to the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning mix with ½–⅔ cup water. Simmer until most of the liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.4️⃣Prepare the Crust:Unroll the crescent rolls into rectangles and press them into an 11.5×16.5 inch jelly roll pan to form the crust. Make sure to press ½ inch up the edges to create a slight border.5️⃣Bake the Crust:Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until golden brown.6️⃣Heat Refried Beans:Microwave the refried beans for about 1 minute to soften.7️⃣Spread Refried Beans:Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the baked crust.8️⃣Layer with Ground Beef:Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the refried beans.9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
4. 4️⃣Prepare the Crust:Unroll the crescent rolls into rectangles and press them into an 11.5×16.5 inch jelly roll pan to form the crust. Make sure to press ½ inch up the edges to create a slight border.
5. 5️⃣Bake the Crust:Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until golden brown.6️⃣Heat Refried Beans:Microwave the refried beans for about 1 minute to soften.7️⃣Spread Refried Beans:Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the baked crust.8️⃣Layer with Ground Beef:Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the refried beans.9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
6. 6️⃣Heat Refried Beans:Microwave the refried beans for about 1 minute to soften.7️⃣Spread Refried Beans:Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the baked crust.8️⃣Layer with Ground Beef:Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the refried beans.9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
7. 7️⃣Spread Refried Beans:Spread the warmed refried beans evenly over the baked crust.
8. 8️⃣Layer with Ground Beef:Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the refried beans.9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
9. 9️⃣Add Cheese:Sprinkle 2–3 cups of shredded cheese over the beef layer.🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
10. 🔟Top with Fresh Ingredients:Evenly distribute the chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cheese.
11. 1️⃣1️⃣Final Bake:Return the taco pizza to the oven and bake for another 3–6 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!
12. 1️⃣2️⃣Slice and Serve:Let the taco pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

Customize toppings to your liking! Add jalapeños, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.For a spicier version, use hot taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef.
For a spicier version, use hot taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef.