Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, this recipe will impress your family and friends while providing a nutritious meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Fusion: The sweet chili sauce combined with the savory beef creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the brussels sprouts, this meal is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb dinner.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild heat from the sriracha (optional), this dish caters to all palates.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe, you will need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the ground beef and brussels sprouts without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions and preparing other ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient slicing of vegetables.

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!

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
• 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

1. Add the ground beef to a large skillet and crumble it using a spatula.
2. Stir in the green onions, garlic powder, sriracha (if using), soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through, then transfer it onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

1. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat.
2. Toss in the shredded brussels sprouts, seasoning them with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté until they are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed brussels sprouts.
2. Pour in the sweet chili sauce along with lime juice.
3. Stir everything together until well coated in sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Top with sesame seeds if desired.
2. Serve over rice or any preferred side dishes.

Enjoy your flavorful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts can be both simple and creative. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile option for any dinner table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the sweet chili sauce, adding extra flavor.

With Noodles

• Toss it with cooked noodles such as egg noodles or soba for an Asian-inspired twist. The combination of flavors will keep everyone coming back for more.

On a Bed of Greens

• Present the ground beef and sprouts on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. Drizzle with additional lime juice to brighten the dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option. This is perfect for those looking for something light yet satisfying.

As a Salad Topper

• Use it as a topping on a salad with crunchy vegetables. This adds texture and makes for a colorful, nutritious meal.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Creating the best Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh brussels sprouts and quality ground beef to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes when cooking. This can customize the dish to your liking.
• Caramelize Carefully: Take your time when caramelizing the brussels sprouts; this enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Garnish Creatively: Add garnishes like chopped cilantro or green onions for an extra layer of freshness that complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Pairing side dishes with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and crunch while providing essential nutrients. Simply steam until tender-crisp.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich beef dish.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting side that balances the savory flavors of the main dish perfectly.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the savory ground beef, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a refreshing bite that helps cut through the richness of the meal.
6. Fried Rice: Quick fried rice loaded with veggies can easily absorb any leftover sauce from your main dish, making it an efficient choice for cleanup!
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside your main course, enhancing family-style dining experiences.
8. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables can add more texture and nutrients while keeping with Asian cuisine themes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• It’s easy to overlook seasoning. Boldly season your ingredients before cooking to enhance the flavor of your ground beef and Brussels sprouts.
• Skipping the sauté step is a common error. Always sauté your Brussels sprouts until they are soft and caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
• Not using the right size skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Choose a large skillet to ensure that your ground beef cooks evenly and mixes well with the Brussels sprouts.
• Forgetting to mix everything together can diminish flavor. Thoroughly combine the ground beef and Brussels sprouts with the sweet chili sauce for a delicious balance of flavors.
• Using low-quality sauces can affect taste. Opt for high-quality sweet chili sauce as it will significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing.

Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, stirring regularly until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts healthier?

You can use leaner ground beef or even substitute it with ground turkey for a lighter option. Adding more vegetables or serving over quinoa can also boost nutrition.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.

What should I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added crunch.

How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish is quick! With prep included, you can have it ready in about 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful recipe that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners while being easy to customize according to your preferences. Try experimenting with different sauces or vegetables, making this meal your own!