Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that your family will love, then this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just what you need! This dish combines the rich flavors of sweet chili and savory beef, all while showcasing the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want to serve something wholesome and satisfying. Plus, it can easily impress during family gatherings or casual get-togethers!

What makes this recipe extra special is how quickly it comes together—just 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s a wonderful way to enjoy nutritious ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet chili sauce balances perfectly with the savory beef, making it appealing for both kids and adults.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Versatile Options: Whether you want to change up the protein or add extra veggies, this recipe is easily adaptable.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 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 Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish is its versatility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few ideas:

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

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. Crumble it as it cooks, which helps break it down into smaller pieces. Once it’s browned, mix in the green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and optional sriracha. Cooking until it’s thoroughly done ensures all those flavors meld beautifully before removing it from the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in your shredded Brussels sprouts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sautéing them until they’re soft and caramelized not only enhances their natural sweetness but also brings out their beautiful earthy flavors.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add the cooked ground beef back into your skillet along with sweet chili sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir everything well so that each bite gets coated in that delicious sauce. This step is crucial as it ties all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

Once everything is mixed well, sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Serve this tasty Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts over rice or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of this warm, comforting dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you make the most of your delicious dish!

• Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep your dish flavorful yet light. The right quality ensures that you enjoy every bite without excess grease.

• Don’t Rush the Brussels: Allow the brussels sprouts to caramelize properly. This process brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your meal.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Consider omitting or adding sriracha based on your heat preference. Tailoring the spice level ensures everyone at the table enjoys this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh green onions and lime. Fresh ingredients elevate your meal with vibrant flavors that dried or bottled alternatives simply can’t match.

• Experiment with Serving Ideas: Feel free to serve this dish over different bases like quinoa or whole-grain rice. Mixing up the base can add variety to your meals throughout the week!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Presentation is key, and this dish offers plenty of opportunities for creativity. Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully.

• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Just a squeeze right before eating can brighten up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with the savory-sweet notes of your main dish, soaking up every bit of flavor.

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crunchy texture and balances out the richness of the beef. Toss cucumbers with rice vinegar and sesame oil for a simple yet tasty side.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works harmoniously with brussels sprouts and beef, making them a delightful complement to your meal.

• Stir-Fried Green Beans: Quick-cooked green beans tossed in garlic provides a crisp contrast to the tender beef and sprouts while adding another layer of nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to impress family or friends with a delightful meal! Enjoy every moment spent at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it 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 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the ground beef and Brussels sprouts mixture into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts spicier?

If you love a kick, increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes when cooking. Adjust to your taste preference!

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. It also makes a great filling for lettuce wraps!

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes if you’re looking for lighter options. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts recipe! It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights or meal prep. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience making it—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!