Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love, then this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just for you! It’s packed with flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute family gatherings. The combination of sweet chili sauce and savory ground beef creates a mouthwatering dish that feels special while being simple to prepare.

This recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s not only satisfying but also features wholesome ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Plus, there’s something so comforting about a meal that brings together tender brussels sprouts with perfectly seasoned ground beef!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet and savory flavors, making it a great choice for dinner!
• Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is both delicious and wholesome.
• One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes to clean means more time to relax after dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You likely already have many of them in your pantry!

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! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for even more color and nutrition.
• Change the sauce: Use teriyaki or hoisin sauce instead of sweet chili for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha if you like a little heat in your meals.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, add the ground beef and crumble it as it cooks. This step is crucial because breaking it apart ensures even cooking. Once it’s browned, mix in the green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha if you’re using it. When it’s fully cooked through, transfer the beef mixture onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Add a tablespoon of avocado oil to the same skillet where you cooked the beef. Toss in the shredded brussels sprouts and season them with salt and pepper. Sautéing them until they are soft and caramelized enhances their natural sweetness, giving your dish an amazing depth of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and squeeze in fresh lime juice. Stir everything together until each piece is coated in that delicious sauce! This step blends all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Top with sesame seeds for a bit of crunch if you’d like! Serve this delightful mixture over rice or another grain of your choice. Enjoy every bite of this easy-to-make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish; I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef – Opting for lean ground beef will keep your dish flavorful while reducing excess fat, making it a healthier choice.
• Don’t rush the brussels sprouts – Allowing the brussels sprouts to caramelize fully enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
• Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to skip the sriracha or add it gradually until you reach your desired heat.
• Fresh lime juice is key – Using fresh lime juice instead of bottled provides a brighter flavor that elevates the sweet chili sauce beautifully.
• Serve immediately for the best texture – This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking, so make sure to serve it promptly to maintain that delightful crunch of the brussels sprouts.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks vibrant on the plate! Here are some creative ways to present your sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds – A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley – Fresh herbs provide a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice – The fluffy, fragrant rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up the delicious sweet chili sauce.
• Quinoa salad – A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory beef.
• Stir-fried vegetables – Quick sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas add more color and nutrition to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
• Cauliflower rice – For a low-carb alternative, serve this dish over cauliflower rice; it absorbs flavors well while keeping things light.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s full of flavor and sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

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

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the brussels sprouts for other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

If you’re looking to spice things up, simply increase the amount of sriracha or add some red pepper flakes. This will give your dish an extra kick!

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

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Cook it once and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating later.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Consider serving this dish over rice, quinoa, or noodles. It also pairs well with a fresh salad on the side for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out—you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how satisfying it is!