Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances hearty flavor and fresh, vibrant veggies, this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is going to become your new go-to. The savory, slightly spicy ground beef combined with caramelized Brussels sprouts creates a harmony of textures and tastes that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is satisfying, easy to prepare, and packs a delightful punch of flavor with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to bring depth, color, and texture to the plate. From the tender green onions that add a hint of freshness to the umami-rich soy sauce that perfectly seasons the beef, you’ll see how every component plays its part beautifully.

• 1 pound lean ground beef: The foundation of the dish, providing rich, juicy flavor and protein.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential aromatic kick that complements the beef.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning essentials to enhance all the flavors in every bite.
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions: Brings a fresh, crisp contrast and lovely color to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Delivers rich umami and a touch of saltiness without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity if you like a little spice.
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil: A neutral oil perfect for cooking Brussels sprouts until tender and caramelized.
• 1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts: The star veggie that brings vibrant green color and mild bitterness, balancing the beef perfectly.
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and tang, making the whole dish irresistibly flavorful.
• 1/2 of a lime, juiced: Gives a bright, zesty finish that lifts all the flavors.
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal for the final touch.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by placing the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to crumble it up as it cooks. Add in the thinly sliced green onions, then season everything with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, sriracha if you’re using it, and soy sauce. These seasonings infuse the beef with layers of flavor that are downright addictive. Once the beef is fully cooked through and beautifully browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. This step lays the savory groundwork for the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Using the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and heat it up. Toss in the shredded Brussels sprouts and season them lightly with salt and pepper. The key here is to sauté the sprouts until they’re soft and caramelized, which means letting their natural sugars deepen and transform into a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the ground beef. This step adds fantastic texture and earthiness to the dish.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients with Sauce

Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly sautéed, add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Pour in the sweet chili sauce along with the fresh lime juice. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly to make sure every strand of Brussels sprout and all the beef are evenly coated. This combination creates the signature flavor burst that makes this recipe so memorable and delicious.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling it with sesame seeds if you have them on hand—they bring a subtle crunch and toasty nuttiness that’s such a delight. Now your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are ready to be served and enjoyed!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and flavor, fresh chopped cilantro or extra green onions work beautifully alongside toasted sesame seeds. A light drizzle of additional sweet chili sauce can make it pop even more. These garnishes add layers of freshness, texture, and color that make each plate inviting and Instagram-worthy.

Side Dishes

This versatile Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even a simple cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A crisp side salad or roasted sweet potatoes can also complement the savory-sweet nuances and round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the mixture stuffed into warm pita pockets or wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves for a fun twist. Another idea is to use it as a topping for crispy roasted potatoes or even pasta for a fusion spin. These creative presentations make the dish exciting and adaptable to your mood or occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts without sacrificing flavor or texture is to warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave leftovers, but be sure to cover and stir halfway through to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for texture and caramelization, you can use frozen shredded Brussels sprouts if pressed for time. Just thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture that could steam rather than sauté them.

Is there a substitute for avocado oil?

Absolutely! You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point such as canola, grapeseed, or even light olive oil. The important part is to choose an oil that allows the Brussels sprouts to caramelize nicely without burning.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the cooking times accordingly and season well to maintain the bold flavors of the original recipe.

How spicy is this dish with sriracha?

The sriracha adds a gentle heat that’s manageable for most spice tolerances. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit it altogether without losing the core flavors of the Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.

What’s the best way to shred Brussels sprouts quickly?

The easiest way is to thinly slice them with a sharp knife or use a box grater or food processor fitted with a shredding attachment. This helps them cook faster and absorb the sauce more evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress with its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wonderful textures. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but tasty enough to serve whenever you want a comforting, satisfying meal. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

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