Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only tasty but also comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to whip up. The sweet chili sauce combined with the savory ground beef creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more!

What makes this dish even more special is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or making it for friends, everyone will appreciate the deliciousness of these wholesome ingredients. Trust me, once you try it, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that make this dish irresistible.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even on its own—it’s great any way you serve it!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts meal.

For the Ground 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 how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

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

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a spatula to crumble the meat as it cooks. Mixing in green onions along with garlic powder, soy sauce, sriracha (if using), salt, and pepper adds layers of flavor. Once fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—remove the beef from the skillet onto a plate. This step ensures your beef stays juicy while we sauté those brussels sprouts!

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in the shredded brussels sprouts after seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté them until they’re soft and caramelized; this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Cooking them in the same pan as your beef allows those delicious flavors to meld together!

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add your cooked ground beef back into the skillet with those beautiful sautéed brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well coated in that irresistible sauce—this step is key for maximizing flavor.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Finish off your dish by sprinkling sesame seeds on top if desired. Serve over rice or any other preferred base like quinoa or lettuce wraps for a refreshing crunch! Sharing this delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts meal with friends and family is sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef not only reduces the fat content but also allows the flavors of the sweet chili sauce and brussels sprouts to shine through without being overwhelming.

• Don’t rush the brussels sprouts: Sautéing the brussels sprouts until they are soft and caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish. Patience is key here!

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to skip the sriracha or reduce its amount. Conversely, if you love heat, add more! It’s all about personal preference.

• Use fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezing your lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick that bottled juices simply can’t replicate.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to switch out the sweet chili sauce for teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile. Your creativity will make each meal unique!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This hearty dish can be presented beautifully with just a few simple touches. Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends, here are some ideas to make it visually appealing!

Garnishes

• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions not only add color but also a fresh crunch that complements the savory flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an additional layer of texture and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sweet chili sauce and balancing out the meal’s flavors.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness while providing extra nutrients.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and brussels sprouts, making for a balanced plate.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried in sesame oil can bring an extra crunch and vibrant look alongside your main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts will surely delight everyone at the table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy the leftovers within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.
• To prevent sogginess, separate the ground beef mixture from any rice or grains before storing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the cooled ground beef and brussels sprouts into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

How can I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts healthier?

You can use leaner ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can also enhance nutrition!

What are some serving suggestions for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Serve this tasty dish over rice, quinoa, or even noodles. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prepping. You can store it in the fridge for several days or freeze it for later use.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to experiment by adding different sauces or spices! A touch of honey instead of sweet chili sauce can give it a delightful twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about trying this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe as I am! It’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor that your family will love. Enjoy cooking this delicious dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. Happy cooking!