Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that brings the family together, then this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those meals that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite in our home. I love how it comes together in about 30 minutes, which means it’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy family gathering.

What makes this dish really special is the way the sautéed Brussels sprouts soak up all the flavor from the sweet chili sauce and ground beef. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet chili sauce and savory beef creates an irresistible taste that will have your taste buds dancing!
• Family-Friendly: With its mild heat from sriracha being optional, it’s suitable for all ages and easy to customize according to preference.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber from the Brussels sprouts, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be enjoyable and uncomplicated, and this recipe embraces that with its simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

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 great things about this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is its versatility! Feel free to experiment with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you’re a fan of heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute low sodium soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.

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 so you get nice little bits of beef throughout. After seasoning with green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce, let it cook through. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation of flavor for your dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Once your beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet onto a plate. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil followed by your shredded Brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper before sautéing until they’re soft and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until well-coated in that delightful sauce! It’s important to mix well so each bite has that amazing flavor.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Top your dish with sesame seeds if you’d like a little crunch, then serve over rice or any other preferred side. Enjoy every mouthful of this satisfying meal!

Now you’re ready to create this delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish. Trust me; it’s going to become a beloved staple in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve, so let’s make your experience even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Allowing the Brussels sprouts to caramelize will develop their natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.

• Adjust the spice level: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to increase the sriracha or add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick that complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully.

• Experiment with sauces: While sweet chili sauce is fantastic, trying out different sauces such as teriyaki or hoisin can give this dish a unique twist each time you make it.

• Batch cooking: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Make a double batch and store it in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving this dish is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful sides that complement its flavors. Here are some ideas to help you serve up a memorable meal!

Garnishes

• Green onion tops: Slicing some additional green onion tops adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your dish.

• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds not only look appealing but also provide a nutty crunch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with this dish, soaking up all the delicious sauce while adding a nice texture contrast.

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing balances the savory notes of the beef and Brussels sprouts, adding a crisp and cool element to your meal.

• Quinoa or brown rice: For a nutritious alternative, serve this dish over quinoa or brown rice. Both options are hearty and rich in fiber, making them great companions.

• Roasted sweet potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory ground beef beautifully, creating a lovely harmony on your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts will not only be delicious but also an eye-catching centerpiece at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it moist.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious flavor. Just adjust cooking times as needed since turkey might cook faster.

How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts more spicy?

To add extra heat, increase the amount of sriracha or incorporate red pepper flakes into the dish. You can also serve it with a side of spicy chili sauce for added kick!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts in this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before sautéing to prevent excess moisture.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavor that will leave everyone at your table satisfied. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients or spice levels—the possibilities are endless. Happy cooking!