Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that comes together in no time, then you’re in the right place! This recipe for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. I can’t tell you how many busy weeknights I’ve turned to this dish, knowing that my family will be satisfied and happy at the dinner table. The combination of sweet chili sauce and savory ground beef makes it a favorite for both casual dinners and family gatherings.

What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to impress guests, this dish delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory balance appeals to all ages, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or as a filling in wraps—there are so many ways to savor it!
• Make Ahead Convenience: This dish is easy to prep ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this tasty dish anytime. Let’s gather what we need for our Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts!

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 easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin if you want a twist on the flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, add more sriracha or toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

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, which helps create those lovely little bits that get caramelized. Mix in green onions along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha, and soy sauce. It’s important to cook until it’s no longer pink; this ensures safety while also allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Once cooked through, transfer it onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in your shredded brussels sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sautéing them until they become soft and caramelized brings out their natural sweetness—a delightful contrast to our savory beef mixture!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for the magic! Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until each bite is coated in that luscious sauce. This step unites all those wonderful flavors!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Finally, don’t forget about garnishing! Top your dish with sesame seeds if desired, then serve over rice or even in wraps. Each bite will be bursting with flavor—a perfect end to your cooking adventure!

And there you have it! A delightful meal featuring Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a joy, especially when you have a few handy tips to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable!

• Use lean ground beef: This keeps the dish healthier while ensuring it remains juicy. Lean beef has less fat, allowing the flavors of the sweet chili and brussels sprouts to shine through.

• Don’t rush the brussels sprouts: Sautéing them until they’re caramelized enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. A little patience goes a long way in improving flavor!

• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more sriracha or even some red pepper flakes. Customizing heat levels allows everyone at the table to enjoy the meal just how they like it.

• Prep ahead of time: If you’re short on time during dinner prep, chop your vegetables and measure out your sauces beforehand. This will make cooking quick and easy, especially on busy weeknights.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to swap out the sweet chili sauce for other types like teriyaki or hoisin for varied flavors. Changing up sauces keeps things interesting and can cater to different taste preferences.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving this dish can be as creative as you want! The vibrant colors and textures of ground beef and brussels sprouts make for an appealing presentation that’s sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Provide an extra zesty kick when squeezed over the top right before serving.
• Thinly sliced red chili: Not only does this add heat, but it also brings a pop of color that makes your dish visually stunning.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This classic pairing absorbs all those delicious flavors from the ground beef and sweet chili sauce, making each bite delightful.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
• Garlic sautéed green beans: Crunchy green beans tossed in garlic complement the sweetness of brussels sprouts while adding another layer of texture.
• Asian-style coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the ground beef.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal! Your family will love how quick, easy, and delicious it is!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week with minimal effort. Preparing this dish in advance can save you time on busy days while still delivering great flavors.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use different vegetables instead of Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! While this recipe features Brussels sprouts, you can substitute them with other vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a different twist.

How can I customize the Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of spice by modifying the sriracha. You can also experiment with different sauces to suit your taste preferences!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is ideal for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week without extra cooking time.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also add a side salad for extra freshness!

How long can I store leftovers of Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re stored properly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish! Its delightful combination of flavors makes it not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for a quick dinner option, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences with me—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!