Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is one of my favorites because it perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors while being ready in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this dish fits any occasion beautifully.

The magic really happens when the tender Brussels sprouts meet the rich ground beef, all coated in a delightful sweet chili sauce. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory combination appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an even faster dinner.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh Brussels sprouts, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful meal!

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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, add more sriracha or toss in some red pepper flakes.
• Switch up the sauce: Try teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Crumble it well as it cooks, then stir in the green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha, and soy sauce. Cooking until it’s nicely browned ensures that all those flavors meld together beautifully. Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the skillet onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and toss in your shredded Brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper as they sauté until they are soft and caramelized. This step enhances their natural sweetness, making them truly irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Return the cooked ground beef back into your skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Now pour in that luscious sweet chili sauce along with lime juice. Stir everything together until well-coated; this is where all those flavors come together for one delicious bite!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Top your dish with sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy over rice or whatever side you prefer. This comforting meal is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Creating the perfect dish can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some pro suggestions to elevate your cooking experience.

• Use lean ground beef – Opting for lean ground beef not only reduces the fat content but also ensures a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Sauté brussels sprouts until caramelized – This brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish and balancing the savory flavors of the beef.
• Customize your spice level – Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference. This way, you can cater the dish to your family’s taste buds!
• Serve immediately for the best texture – Enjoying this dish right after it’s made ensures that the brussels sprouts remain tender-crisp and flavorful, providing a delightful contrast to the ground beef.
• Experiment with toppings – Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or nuts can provide a delightful crunch and enhance the visual appeal of your plate.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley – A sprinkle of these herbs adds freshness and makes the colors pop on your plate.
• Lime wedges – Placing lime wedges next to the dish allows guests to add a splash of extra acidity, enhancing all those wonderful flavors.
• Crushed peanuts or cashews – These nuts add a satisfying crunch and additional flavor that complements both the beef and brussels sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice – The fluffy texture of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with this dish, soaking up all those tasty juices.
• Quinoa salad with vegetables – A light quinoa salad adds nutrition and a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the ground beef.
• Roasted sweet potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with this savory dish while adding a hearty element to your meal.
• Miso soup – A warm bowl of miso soup is a comforting addition that provides umami flavor, rounding out your Asian-inspired dinner beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy reference.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I ensure my Brussels sprouts are not bitter?

Trim off any yellow or wilted leaves and cut them in half before cooking. This helps reduce bitterness and ensures they caramelize beautifully!

What dishes pair well with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

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

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts in advance. Store it in the fridge or freezer and simply reheat when ready to eat.

Are there alternatives to sweet chili sauce?

If you prefer less sweetness, you can use a homemade sauce made from soy sauce, honey (or agave syrup), and garlic for a similar flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe as much as I do! Its balance of sweet and savory flavors makes for a satisfying meal that’s not only quick but also nourishing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or part of your meal prep strategy, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!