Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of ground beef and brussels sprouts not only provides a hearty protein source but also packs a punch of vibrant flavors, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Profile: The sweet chili sauce combined with savory beef creates an irresistible taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With lean ground beef and brussels sprouts, this recipe offers essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
- Easy Cleanup: Cook everything in one skillet for minimal mess and quick cleanup.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools for making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for stirring
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook the ground beef evenly while providing enough space to sauté the brussels sprouts without overcrowding.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes cutting vegetables like green onions and shredding brussels sprouts quick and effortless.
Ingredients
Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts has the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors and can be ready to eat in 30 minutes!
Meat & Seasoning
- 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)
Vegetables
- 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
Sauce & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/2 of a lime (juiced)
- sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to a large skillet and crumble it. Season with garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. Cook until the beef is browned through. Once done, remove it from the skillet onto a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in the shredded brussels sprouts. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are soft and caramelized.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce along with lime juice. Stir everything together until well coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Serve
Top your dish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice or any other preferred side dish for a complete meal. Enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Serving Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts can be as creative as you want it to be. This dish pairs well with various sides, making it a versatile option for dinner.
Over Rice
- Serve the ground beef and brussels sprouts mixture over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with the beef and brussels sprouts. This adds a crisp texture.
With Noodles
- Toss the mixture with cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or udon, for an Asian-inspired pasta dish.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and is a great gluten-free option to serve under your ground beef and brussels sprouts.
With Cauliflower Rice
- For a low-carb option, serve the dish over cauliflower rice. It absorbs flavors well while keeping calories down.
Topped with Avocado
- Add slices of fresh avocado on top for creaminess and extra nutrition.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, consider these tips:
- Choose Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to season both the beef and brussels sprouts. Proper seasoning enhances overall taste.
- Cook Brussels Sprouts Until Golden: Aim for caramelization; it brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust sweet chili sauce according to your preference; too much can overwhelm other flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for added freshness when serving.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking, ensuring all ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To complement your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal experience.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple green side that adds crunch and nutrients while balancing the richness of the main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort while pairing beautifully with the savory flavors of beef.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil brings brightness to your plate.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Sauté seasonal vegetables in soy sauce for an easy side that echoes Asian flavors.
- Fried Rice: Quick fried rice can be made using leftover rice, adding peas, carrots, and eggs for extra texture.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start to your meal that complements the main dish’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking ground beef too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a nice brown color and remove it from heat once it’s fully cooked.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your dish properly can result in bland flavors. Use kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder liberally to enhance the taste.
- Not caramelizing the Brussels sprouts: Skipping the caramelization step may leave your Brussels sprouts soggy. Ensure they’re sautéed until golden brown for added flavor.
- Rushing the cooking time: Trying to speed up the cooking process can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients. Stick to the recommended times for optimal results.
- Forgetting the lime juice: Omitting lime juice can dull the dish’s flavor profile. Always remember this ingredient for that fresh, zesty kick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it on its own as a hearty meal.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To increase heat, add more sriracha or include red pepper flakes during cooking.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh is best, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts; just ensure they are thawed before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a deliciously satisfying dish that harmonizes sweet and savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 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 pound shredded brussels sprouts
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, crumble the ground beef and season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. Cook until browned, then remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add avocado oil and sauté shredded brussels sprouts until soft and caramelized.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with brussels sprouts. Add sweet chili sauce and lime juice; stir until well combined.
- Serve topped with sesame seeds if desired, over rice or your favorite side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of sweet chili sauce according to your taste preference.
