Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just what you need! This dish has become a favorite in my house because it perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Plus, it’s ready to eat in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

I especially love serving this dish at family gatherings or casual get-togethers. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas always draw everyone in, and I’m sure your loved ones will be asking for seconds! Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of ground beef and brussels sprouts is sure to please even picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the ingredients ahead of time for a stress-free dinner.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The sweet chili sauce adds a delightful kick that elevates the dish to new heights.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it’s a meal you can feel good about serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a delightful meal. You probably have many of them in your pantry already!

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet and crumbling it as it cooks. Seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, pepper, green onions, sriracha, and soy sauce infuses great flavor into the meat. Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the skillet onto a plate. This step ensures that your beef stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and toss in the shredded brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper before sautéing until they become soft and caramelized. This process brings out their natural sweetness while also adding a lovely texture to your dish.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir until everything is well-coated in that delicious sauce. This step is crucial as it melds all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Top your dish with sesame seeds if you like, then serve over rice or any other side you prefer. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh produce has a better texture and flavor compared to pre-packaged options. Look for bright green, firm sprouts when shopping.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the Brussels sprouts, give them enough space in the skillet. This allows for proper caramelization and enhances their flavor.

• Taste as you go: Always take a moment to taste your dish while cooking. This way, you can adjust the seasoning or spice level to match your preference.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to add your favorite sauces or spices! A splash of teriyaki or hoisin can add a unique twist to the dish if you’re looking to mix things up.

• Meal prep friendly: Consider making a larger batch and storing leftovers in an airtight container. This meal reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner throughout the week!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ways to present it:

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: This herb adds a fresh pop of flavor that complements the sweetness of the chili sauce.
• Sliced red chili: For those who enjoy a little heat, thinly sliced red chili peppers make an eye-catching garnish.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to add extra citrusy zing according to their taste.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of Jasmine rice provides a lovely base that balances the savory flavors of the beef and Brussels sprouts.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes brings freshness and nutrition, making it a great complement to this hearty meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements in this dish while adding color to your plate.
• Garlic sautéed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic offer a crunchy contrast that enhances your dining experience.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone at your table excited for seconds! Enjoy your cooking journey!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making your dinners quick, easy, and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ground beef and brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• When storing, it’s best to keep the rice separate if you’ve added it.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

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 veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts healthier?

You can reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce or use a low-sugar version. Additionally, serving it over brown rice or quinoa can boost the fiber content.

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

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later meals.

What sides go well with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. A simple side salad also complements it nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! Its delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it a standout dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!