Ground beef with Brussels sprouts is a comforting and satisfying recipe that combines hearty ground beef with tender Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious and nutritious meal. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also provides essential nutrients, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful mix of ingredients that provide a satisfying bite.
- Healthy option packed with protein and vitamins from vegetables.
- Flexible recipe that allows for customization and variations.
- Can be served alone or over rice for a fulfilling meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (shredded or thinly sliced)
- ⅓ cup green onions (sliced)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or fresh garlic)
- 1 tbsp oil (avocado or olive oil)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt & black pepper
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Why These Ingredients Work
- Ground Beef: Provides a rich flavor and a hearty protein base that makes the dish filling.
- Brussels Sprouts: Offers a slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the chili sauce.
- Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy flavor that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook Beef
Add ground beef to a skillet over medium heat and break it apart using a spatula. Once browned, stir in green onions, soy sauce, garlic powder, sriracha, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Brussels Sprouts
Heat oil in the same skillet. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized for optimal flavor.
Step 3: Combine
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add sweet chili sauce and lime juice, stirring until all ingredients are well coated and heated throughout. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Serve
Top with sesame seeds if desired for a bit of crunch. This dish can be served as-is or over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
You Must Know
This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while still enjoying the satisfaction of a hearty main course. The unique combination of flavors will please even picky eaters. Not to mention, the recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Personal Secret: For the best results, don’t overcook the Brussels sprouts; a slight crunch enhances the texture.
Pro Tips & Cooking Hacks
- For a quicker version, use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts available at most grocery stores.
- Upgrade the dish by adding bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
- Avoid overcooking the beef to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Substitute quinoa or farro for rice to boost the health factor.
Flavor Variations & Suggestions
For a spicy kick, add more sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also incorporate teriyaki sauce instead of sweet chili sauce for a different taste profile. If you enjoy a citrus flavor, substitute lemon juice for lime juice.
Make-Ahead Options
The beef mixture can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the mixture in a skillet before serving. For freezer options, you can freeze the cooked beef for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Serve With Ground Beef with Brussels Sprouts
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a fulfilling meal. A light cucumber salad can offer a refreshing contrast. For those wanting a crunch, sesame crackers serve as an excellent accompaniment.
Allergy Information
Common allergens include: Gluten: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Dairy: This recipe doesn’t contain dairy, making it suitable for dairy-free diets. Eggs: There are no eggs used in this dish.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Freezing is also an option for up to 3 months, thawing before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I substitute the ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
What doneness should I aim for with the beef?
The ground beef should be cooked until it is browned and no longer pink, ideally reaching an internal temperature of 160°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the beef mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is a smart substitution for the sweet chili sauce?
Use a mix of honey and ketchup as a quick substitute for sweet chili sauce.
How can I prevent the Brussels sprouts from tasting bitter?
Sauté the Brussels sprouts until they are caramelized; this enhances their natural sweetness and reduces bitterness.
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Ground Beef with Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian (Halal alternative available)
Description
A quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish combining lean ground beef with tender Brussels sprouts, sweet chili sauce, and fresh lime for a weeknight-friendly meal. Perfect served alone or over rice for added heartiness.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb Brussels sprouts, shredded
⅓ cup green onions, sliced
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp sriracha (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder or 1 clove fresh garlic
1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
½ cup sweet chili sauce
Juice of ½ lime
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Heat skillet over medium heat and cook ground beef until browned. Add green onions, soy sauce, garlic powder, sriracha, salt, and pepper; stir until fully cooked. Remove beef from pan.
In the same skillet, add oil and heat. Sauté shredded Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper for 5-7 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Return beef to skillet, add sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir to coat and cook until heated through (2-3 minutes).
Serve as-is or over rice. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Customize spice level by adjusting sriracha
Pair with brown rice or noodles for a heartier option
Make-ahead: Cool and refrigerate for 3-4 days
Browning beef in batches ensures even cooking
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Combining
- Cuisine: American
