Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can be on your table in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over and want to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your household!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. The combination of ground beef and Brussels sprouts provides a hearty yet healthy option that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the sweet chili sauce adds a lovely kick that keeps it exciting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet chili flavor is appealing to kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.
• Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the Brussels sprouts, this meal is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need to whip up this delicious dish right here. No fancy items required—just good food that’ll warm your heart.

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! Feel free to make it your own with these easy variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Change up the sauce: If you’re not into sweet chili sauce, teriyaki or hoisin can work beautifully too.
• Make it spicy: Add more sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat!

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet. Use a spatula to crumble it as it cooks. Mixing in green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce brings out incredible flavors. Once fully cooked through, set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in those beautiful shredded Brussels sprouts! Season them with salt and pepper. Sautéing until soft and caramelized helps develop their natural sweetness—a critical step that elevates your dish!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your Brussels sprouts are nice and tender, it’s time to mix things up! Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together until every bite is coated in that delicious sauce; this is where all those flavors come together beautifully.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, then serve over rice or any side of your choice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking this delicious dish can be a breeze if you follow a few helpful tips! Here are some ways to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces excess fat, making the dish healthier while still being rich in flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Sautéing the brussels sprouts in batches if necessary allows them to caramelize properly, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer more spice, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes. This will bring a delightful kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the chili sauce.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions and high-quality sweet chili sauce can elevate the dish significantly, offering vibrant flavors that make each bite enjoyable.

• Experiment with serving options: Serving over rice or quinoa not only adds texture but also makes it a more filling meal. You could even try it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast. Consider these serving ideas to make your dinner stand out!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color that brightens up the dish.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the chili sauce.
• Thinly sliced radishes: Adding radishes not only provides a pop of color but also brings a crunchy texture to balance the softness of the brussels sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice serves as an excellent base for soaking up all those delicious sauces.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing pairs well, adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the flavors in your main dish while providing additional nutrients.
• Garlic bread: Offering slices of garlic bread is perfect for those who love a hearty addition to their meals and helps soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only create a delightful dinner but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite of this sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled ground beef and brussels sprouts into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Ensure to remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish at medium power, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Add a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on their texture.

How can I spice up my Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

If you want more heat, consider adding extra sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different sauces to enhance the flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that will delight your taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, I’m sure you’ll love how satisfying it is. Enjoy creating this dish for yourself and your loved ones—happy cooking!