Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings together savory and sweet flavors, this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is just the ticket! This dish has become a favorite in my home because it’s not only easy to whip up in about 30 minutes but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

The combination of tender ground beef with caramelized Brussels sprouts and a sweet chili sauce creates a delightful flavor explosion. Whether you serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own, it’s a comforting dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and savory balance!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand for a customized touch.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from Brussels sprouts and lean beef.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet chili sauce adds an irresistible zing that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful meal! You’ll find that most of these items are likely already in your pantry, making prep a breeze.

For the Beef

• 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
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal tastes. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
• Serve differently: Instead of rice, try serving it over quinoa or wrapped in lettuce leaves!

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by adding the ground beef to a large skillet and crumbling it as it cooks. Season with green onions, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, soy sauce, and sriracha if you’re feeling adventurous. Cooking until it’s browned ensures you get all those delicious flavors melded together. Once done, transfer it to a plate while we focus on those Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in your shredded Brussels sprouts along with some salt and pepper. Sauté them until they become soft and caramelized—this step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth to your dish.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything back together! Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet along with sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated with that luscious sauce. This step is key as it binds all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Finish off by sprinkling sesame seeds on top if you like. Serve your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts over rice or any other creative serving suggestion you’ve come up with. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking is all about having fun and ensuring your dishes turn out just right! Here are some tips to make your Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts even more delicious:

• Choose Lean Beef: Opting for lean ground beef keeps the dish healthier and allows the flavors of the brussels sprouts and sweet chili sauce to shine without being too greasy.

• Don’t Rush the Brussels Sprouts: Sautéing the brussels sprouts until they’re soft and caramelized enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish that you don’t want to miss.

• Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to skip the sriracha or adjust it according to your preference. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and lime juice bring a brightness that complements the savory flavors beautifully. Whenever possible, choose fresh over dried or bottled.

• Experiment with Sauces: If sweet chili sauce isn’t your favorite, try teriyaki or a homemade sauce! This way, you can personalize the dish to suit your taste.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks vibrant on the plate! Here are some ideas for presenting it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a touch of crunch and a nutty flavor that complements both the beef and brussels sprouts.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness of the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to add a tangy kick just before digging in, enhancing the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices from the ground beef and sweet chili sauce.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can add a crisp texture alongside your meal. Toss sliced cucumbers with rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil for an easy side.
• Quinoa: For a healthy whole grain option, serve quinoa as it offers nuttiness and pairs well with savory dishes like this one.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with this savory meal while providing additional nutrients.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family or friends with both its flavors and presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ground beef and brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the mixture has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, heating in 30-second intervals until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts that may help you get the best results.

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

Absolutely! You can incorporate your favorite veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize the spice level of Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

To adjust the spice level, simply increase or decrease the amount of sriracha according to your preference. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra heat or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts without soy sauce?

Yes! You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade blend of vinegar and spices for a similar flavor profile without using soy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this journey into creating sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts! This dish is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a delightful dinner for your family, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences—I’d love to hear how it turns out!