Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that’s packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is one of my favorites, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a hit at any dinner table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or even family gatherings when you want something satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this dish so special is not just the delicious combination of flavors but also its versatility. You can enjoy it over rice, toss it into a salad, or even serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: The sweet chili sauce adds a fun twist that kids absolutely love!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich brussels sprouts, it’s good for you too.
• Versatile options: Serve it over rice or as a filling in wraps — the possibilities are endless!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prep the ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious dish! Nothing fancy here—just good food that comes together quickly.

For the Ground 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 Finishing Touches

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Try teriyaki or hoisin sauce if you’re craving something different.
• Make it spicy: Increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Crumble it as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once it’s nicely browned, mix in those green onions along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. This step is crucial because seasoning early helps develop rich flavors. Once everything is cooked through, transfer the mixture onto a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, drizzle in a tablespoon of avocado oil. Now toss in your shredded brussels sprouts! These little gems need some attention as they sauté; sprinkle with salt and pepper while they cook until they’re soft and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness, making them absolutely irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add that flavorful ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. This step ensures each bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a lovely crunch before serving! Enjoy this delightful dish over rice or any other way you prefer. Each bite will remind you why Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts has become such a cherished recipe among family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking this delicious dish is not only quick but also rewarding! Here are some pro tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces the fat content in the dish, making it a healthier choice while still providing rich flavor.

• Don’t rush the brussels sprouts: Allowing the brussels sprouts to sauté until they’re soft and caramelized enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

• Adjust the heat: If you enjoy a little kick, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha. Remember, you can always add more but can’t take it out!

• Experiment with sauces: While sweet chili sauce is fantastic, you can play around with other sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique twist.

• Prep ahead: To save time on busy nights, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Chop green onions and shred your brussels sprouts ahead of time for quicker cooking.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts dish looks as good as it tastes! Presenting it well can turn an everyday meal into a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro gives a bright, herbal note that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus flavor according to their taste.
• Sliced red chilies: For those who enjoy spice, thin slices of red chilies not only add color but also a fresh kick.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice pairs well with this dish and soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the ground beef.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with savory flavors and adds nutritional value.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A medley of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas provides vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your family or guests with this quick yet flavorful dish. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, and it stores wonderfully in the fridge or freezer.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the ground beef and brussels sprouts into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a damp paper towel, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use other vegetables with ground beef and brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on your vegetable choice.

How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts healthier?

To make this dish healthier, use leaner ground beef or substitute it with ground turkey. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce or use a low-sugar alternative.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You could also serve it over mixed greens for a refreshing salad twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will please everyone at your table. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—you’ll find that it quickly becomes a family favorite. Happy cooking!