Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that brings the family together, this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just what you need! With its delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, it’s become one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up something that not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes this dish truly special is how it combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with the unique flavor of brussels sprouts. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep and Cook Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet chili sauce makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults!
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these wholesome ingredients on hand.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or enjoy it as a flavorful bowl on its own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep; just reheat when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe are simple and wholesome. You won’t need anything fancy here—just good quality staples that come together beautifully.

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 make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the sriracha if you like more heat, or add crushed red pepper flakes!
• Try different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki or hoisin sauce in place of sweet chili for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. As you crumble it into smaller pieces, mix in green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha if you’re using it. Cooking until browned ensures that all those flavors meld together beautifully. Once it’s cooked through, remove the beef from the skillet onto a plate. This step helps keep your beef juicy while you prepare the veggies!

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in your shredded brussels sprouts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté until they soften and caramelize—this enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish. It’s such a joy watching them turn from bright green to golden brown!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Bring back the cooked ground beef into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until each piece is coated in that luscious sauce. This step is crucial because it brings all the flavors together into one delicious harmony!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Top your dish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve over rice or any of your favorite bases. This final touch not only adds texture but also a lovely presentation that makes every bite feel special.

Enjoy this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish as part of your family’s meals—I’m sure it’ll become a favorite just like it has in my home!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Creating a delicious meal can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some secrets to elevate your sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts will provide a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Look for firm, green sprouts without any yellow leaves.

• Adjust the Heat: If you love a little kick, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha. This sauce not only adds spice but also depth to the sweetness of the chili sauce.

• Don’t Overcook the Sprouts: To maintain their bright color and nutritional value, sauté the Brussels sprouts just until they’re tender and caramelized. This ensures they retain their unique flavor and texture.

• Experiment with Sauces: While sweet chili sauce is fantastic, try mixing in other sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a different flavor profile. This allows you to personalize the dish according to your taste preferences.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, let your dish sit for a minute before serving. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your ground beef and Brussels sprouts can turn an everyday meal into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors of your dish.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy an added heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving to give it that spicy flair.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is a classic accompaniment that soaks up all those delicious juices from the beef and sauce.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber and tomatoes can add a refreshing contrast while providing additional nutrients.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the savory flavors of this dish while adding an earthy element.
• Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic make for a delightful side that complements both texture and flavor beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to create a beautiful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to have delicious and nutritious meals ready throughout the week. You can prepare the dish in advance and store it properly to maintain its flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled ground beef and brussels sprouts into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use other vegetables with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?

Yes! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lean alternative, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.

Is this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe spicy?

The spiciness comes from sriracha, which is optional. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit it from the recipe.

Can I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts without soy sauce?

Certainly! You can replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade blend of vinegar and spices for a similar taste without soy.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that everyone in your family will love. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring together wholesome ingredients in one delightful dish. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!