Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just the ticket! It combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the unique taste of brussels sprouts, all wrapped in a sweet chili sauce that’s sure to please everyone around the table. I love how this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a meal that feels special but is incredibly easy to whip up—what’s not to love?

This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites because it’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Plus, the vibrant colors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, you’ll find that this dish is a delightful way to enjoy brussels sprouts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for any night.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even on its own!
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare extra for leftovers or meal prep for an easy lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create our delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts!

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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the sriracha or add some red pepper flakes.
• Serve differently: Instead of rice, serve this dish in lettuce cups for a fun twist!

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, ensuring even browning. Add in the green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. Cooking until fully browned helps lock in those wonderful flavors. Once done, remove it from the skillet onto a plate so we can focus on those tasty brussels sprouts!

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In that same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and toss in your shredded brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper before sautéing until they’re soft and caramelized. This step is key because caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our dish.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring back our flavorful ground beef! Add it back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until well-coated in that delicious sauce. This is where all those lovely flavors meld together!

Step 4: Serve It Up

For an eye-catching presentation, top your dish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice or alongside your favorite sides. You’ve just created a beautiful meal that’s bound to impress! Enjoy every bite of your delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines:

• Use lean ground beef: This helps to keep your dish healthier while still providing that rich flavor. Lean beef has less fat, which means you won’t end up with an overly greasy result.

• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the Brussels sprouts until they’re caramelized adds depth and richness to the flavor. This step transforms them from simply green veggies into a delicious component of your meal.

• Adjust sweet chili sauce to taste: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more sriracha or sweet chili sauce. Adjusting these ingredients allows you to customize the dish to your personal preference.

• Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve this dish right after cooking. The Brussels sprouts stay crisp while the beef remains juicy, making each bite satisfying.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to play around with different garnishes or toppings. Whether it’s fresh herbs or crunchy nuts, toppings can elevate your dish and make it uniquely yours!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Presentation can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts for a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs not only brighten up the plate visually but also add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sweet chili sauce, making every bite irresistible.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes adds freshness and a healthy twist to your meal while balancing out the hearty beef.

• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory flavors, giving you a comforting side that rounds out the plate beautifully.

• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried in a little garlic adds both nutrition and vibrancy, making your dinner even more appealing.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy creating this delightful meal that’s not only quick but also packed with flavor. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover ground beef and brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.
• Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent drying out.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use other vegetables instead of Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What dishes pair well with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish goes wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!

How do I make my Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts healthier?

To lighten it up, consider using leaner ground beef or swapping some of the sweet chili sauce for a homemade version with less sugar.

Can I make this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version that still packs flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this flavorful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe as much as I do! It’s quick, satisfying, and offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory. Whether it’s for dinner tonight or meal prep for the week ahead, you’re sure to love every bite. Happy cooking!