Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dish that brings comfort to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a hit for everyone in the family. Plus, it can be ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights or when friends pop by unexpectedly!

Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family gathering or just whipping up a weeknight dinner, this dish embodies warmth and flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the delightful combination of ground beef with tender Brussels sprouts is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet chili sauce makes it appealing even to picky eaters!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not just tasty but also good for you.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even on its own; the choice is yours!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components in advance for an even quicker meal when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe, you won’t need fancy ingredients—just simple and wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1/2 of a lime (juiced)
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more sriracha or top with some red pepper flakes.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining its fantastic flavor.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Break it up as it cooks. Mixing in green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha, and soy sauce adds layers of flavor. Once it’s cooked through—typically about 5-7 minutes—remove it from the skillet onto a plate. This step ensures your beef stays juicy!

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Next, add a tablespoon of avocado oil back into the skillet. Toss in those lovely shredded Brussels sprouts! Season them with salt and pepper as they sauté until they’re soft and caramelized. This step is crucial because caramelizing adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add your cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir well so that everything gets nicely coated in that delicious sauce. The combination of flavors will make your kitchen smell incredible!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Finally, top with sesame seeds if you’d like a little crunch! Serve your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts over rice or noodles—or enjoy them just as they are! This dish is not only satisfying but also visually stunning with its vibrant colors.

Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Creating a delicious dish is all about those little tips that can elevate your cooking game. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best flavor and texture in your sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts!

• Choose high-quality beef: Using lean ground beef will not only enhance the flavor but also keep the dish lighter without sacrificing protein.

• Don’t rush the caramelization: Allow the Brussels sprouts to sauté until they are golden brown. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall dish.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to omit the sriracha or reduce the amount. You can always add more later if you prefer a spicier kick!

• Fresh lime juice makes a difference: Squeezing fresh lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors and balances sweetness, making each bite refreshing.

• Make it a one-pan meal: For easy cleanup, you can serve everything directly from the skillet. Just be sure to garnish right before serving!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving this delicious dish is just as important as making it! With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, you’ll definitely want to present it beautifully. Here are some ideas on how to make your plate even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Green onion slices: Sprinkle extra green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements both the beef and Brussels sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the sweet chili sauce beautifully, balancing out flavors.
• Quinoa salad: This provides a nutritious twist with protein-rich quinoa, fresh veggies, and a light dressing to complement your main dish.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory flavors, creating a comforting side that’s easy to prepare.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas adds vibrant colors and crunch, making your meal even more wholesome.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions—your family and friends will be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish is an excellent choice for meal prep! With its quick cooking time and delicious flavors, you can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label them!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help clarify any uncertainties.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables could also complement it nicely!

Can I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment. Check out the storage tips above for best practices.

Are there any substitutes for sweet chili sauce in Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can try mixing honey with some soy sauce or using a homemade sweet chili mix with sugar, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that brings a little taste of Asia right to your kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!