Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Sweet chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef with the unique taste of brussels sprouts, creating an unforgettable meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This meal can be ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those on a tight schedule.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet chili sauce enhances the umami of the ground beef while complementing the earthy flavor of brussels sprouts.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish fits well into any balanced diet.
- Kid-Friendly Flavors: The sweetness of the chili sauce appeals to kids while providing them with nutritious vegetables.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Cooking spoon or spatula: Essential for mixing, stirring, and ensuring that nothing sticks to your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee balanced flavors in your dish.
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 Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Vegetable Ingredients
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lime
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 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 as it cooks.
- Incorporate the green onions along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha, and soy sauce.
- Once cooked through, 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 with kosher salt and black pepper; sauté until they are soft and caramelized.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet.
- Pour in the sweet chili sauce and lime juice.
- Stir thoroughly until everything is coated evenly in the sauce.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
- Top with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve over rice or choose any other preferred serving suggestion.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Ground beef and Brussels sprouts create a deliciously balanced meal that is satisfying and quick to prepare. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Over Rice
- White or brown rice provides a neutral base that complements the sweet chili sauce perfectly.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the ground beef mixture for a low-carb option that’s fun to eat.
With Quinoa
- Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, making your meal even more nutritious.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve it over mixed greens for a fresh and healthy twist, adding some vinaigrette for extra flavor.
As Tacos
- Spoon the mixture into taco shells, topping with avocado and salsa for a delicious fusion dish.
With Noodles
- Toss the ground beef and Brussels sprouts with noodles for an Asian-inspired stir-fry that’s truly satisfying.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To make your ground beef and Brussels sprouts dish even better, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose lean beef: Using lean ground beef reduces excess fat, keeping the meal healthier while retaining flavor.
- Don’t overcook the sprouts: Sauté Brussels sprouts just until they are tender; this ensures they retain their bright color and nutrients.
- Balance flavors: Adjust the sweet chili sauce according to your taste; add more if you like it sweeter or less for a savory kick.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding chopped peanuts or cashews for crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
- Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers!
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Pairing side dishes with your ground beef and Brussels sprouts can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli – A simple side that adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering your main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the savory beef.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the dish beautifully.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs provides a nice contrast to the warm flavors.
- Fried Rice – A delicious way to use leftover rice, packed with vegetables that pair well with Asian flavors.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tanginess, balancing out the richness of the beef sauce.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a summer vibe that’s perfect alongside this hearty dish.
- Dumplings – Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat make an excellent addition to round out your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking ground beef and brussels sprouts can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s quality.
- Overcooking the Brussels Sprouts: This leads to mushy sprouts. Sauté until they are tender and caramelized for the best flavor.
- Skipping Seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your dish may taste bland. Always season your ground beef and brussels sprouts well with salt and pepper.
- Using High Sodium Soy Sauce: It can overpower the dish. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to maintain flavor balance without excessive salt.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Before Cooking: This can slow you down. Prepare all ingredients beforehand so you can cook efficiently and enjoy the process.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking too long or too short affects texture. Follow recommended times to achieve optimal doneness for both beef and sprouts.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Place in 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). Bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing ground beef and brussels sprouts.
How long does it take to make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option!
Can I use frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes! Just sauté them longer as they may release extra moisture during cooking.
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Serve over rice, quinoa, or with a side of noodles for a complete meal.
Are there any variations for this recipe?
Certainly! You can add bell peppers or swap the sweet chili sauce for teriyaki sauce for different flavors.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the brussels sprouts, making it a balanced choice.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick but also deliciously satisfying. With its sweet chili sauce binding the flavors together, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste preferences!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a quick, delicious dish that brings together savory ground beef and the unique flavor of brussels sprouts, all coated in a sweet chili sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its balance of flavors not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps for a versatile dining experience. Enjoy this healthy and protein-packed dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, crumbling as it cooks. Add green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. Once fully cooked, transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add avocado oil and sauté the shredded brussels sprouts until tender and caramelized.
- Return the beef to the skillet and mix in sweet chili sauce and lime juice until everything is evenly coated.
- Top with sesame seeds if desired and serve over rice or your preferred option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
