Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts! This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for those busy evenings when you need something tasty on the table in no time. The combination of sweet chili sauce and savory ground beef creates a delightful flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this hearty meal fits right in. Plus, it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and veggies, you’ll feel good about serving it.
• Versatile dish: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even as a filling for lettuce wraps!
• Delicious leftovers: Perfect for meal prepping; enjoy it again for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand. This makes putting together Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts effortless and enjoyable.

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 Finishing Touches

• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Crumble it with a spatula as it cooks. This step is important because breaking up the meat allows it to brown evenly. Add in the green onions along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha, and soy sauce. Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the skillet onto a plate. Set aside!

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and toss in those shredded brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper. Sautéing until they are soft and caramelized adds depth of flavor to your dish—trust me, this step makes all the difference!

Step 3: Combine It All Together

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add the cooked ground beef into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir well until everything is coated in that delicious sauce. This step ensures that every bite packs a punch of flavor!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, top your dish with sesame seeds if you’re using them. Serve warm over rice or any other grain you prefer. Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Creating a delicious dish is all about the little things! Here are some handy tips to ensure your sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing lean ground beef reduces the fat content, making your dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t overcook the Brussels sprouts: Sautéing them just until they’re soft and caramelized enhances their natural sweetness and prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the spice level: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different brands or types of sweet chili sauce, as each has its unique flavor profile that can change the overall taste of the dish.
• Serve immediately for best texture: This dish tastes best when served fresh. The combination of textures from the crispy Brussels sprouts and tender beef is delightful!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving your sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts in a visually appealing way can make your meal even more enjoyable! Here are some creative ideas for presentation.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: These add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements both the beef and Brussels sprouts beautifully.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs not only brighten up the dish but also add a pop of color and freshness that makes each bite more vibrant.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: Its fluffy texture is perfect for soaking up the sweet chili sauce, creating a harmonious balance with the beef and Brussels sprouts.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a healthy contrast to this savory dish.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the flavors in your main dish while adding a hearty element to your meal.
• Garlic green beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with garlic offer a crisp side that enhances the overall meal experience without overwhelming it.

With these serving suggestions, you can create an inviting dining experience that highlights your delicious ground beef and Brussels sprouts! Enjoy every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s quick to make and stores well, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ground beef and brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain flavor and texture, avoid reheating more than once.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a splash of water or broth when microwaving to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up when making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as it may cook faster than ground beef.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it on its own for a low-carb option!

How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts spicier?

If you enjoy a kick of heat, feel free to add more sriracha or red pepper flakes. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I add other vegetables to Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them until tender along with the brussels sprouts.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is fantastic for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! It’s such a versatile dish packed with flavor that brings comfort while being nutritious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do. Happy cooking!