Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts is a delightful dish that combines robust flavors in just 30 minutes! This recipe showcases the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its quick preparation time and crowd-pleasing taste, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet chili sauce and tender brussels sprouts creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or on its own for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from lean ground beef and nutrients from brussels sprouts.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the sriracha to your preference for added spice.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious ground beef and brussels sprouts recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure a delicious outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the ground beef and sauté the brussels sprouts evenly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of ingredients like green onions and brussels sprouts for uniform cooking.

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 Mixture

• 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 over medium-high heat.
2. Once browned, incorporate the green onions, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha, and soy sauce.
3. Cook until fully browned, then transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

1. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of avocado oil.
2. Toss in the shredded brussels sprouts, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté until soft and caramelized.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the brussels sprouts.
2. Stir in the sweet chili sauce and lime juice until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

1. Top with sesame seeds if desired.
2. Serve over rice or enjoy as is!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Serving Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts can be a delightful experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, allowing you to customize each meal to your liking.

Over Rice

• Serve the ground beef and brussels sprouts mixture over rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the sweet chili sauce, enhancing the flavors.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy alternative. This option is light and great for those looking for a low-carb meal.

With Quinoa

• Pair your dish with quinoa for a nutritious twist. Quinoa adds protein and fiber, making it a hearty choice.

On Whole Wheat Tortillas

• Roll the ground beef and brussels sprouts in whole wheat tortillas for a tasty wrap. Add some extra vegetables or salsa for added flavor.

As a Salad Topper

• Use the mixture as a topping on mixed greens. Drizzle with extra lime juice or your favorite dressing to brighten up the salad.

How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

To achieve the best results with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh brussels sprouts rather than frozen ones. Fresh sprouts have better texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time for both the beef and brussels sprouts to maintain their tenderness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or sriracha based on your preference for spice.
• Add Extra Veggies: Consider including bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Use sesame seeds or chopped peanuts as garnishes to add crunch and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Pairing your dish with sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent side options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly flavored rice that complements the savory notes of the main dish.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the sweet chili flavor.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances well with the savory ground beef.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that adds crispness and acidity to your plate.
5. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Quick-cooked broccoli offers crunch and nutrients while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini brings a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the dish’s sweetness.
7. Carrot Slaw: A vibrant slaw can add crunch and freshness, making it an excellent side option.
8. Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful pilaf made with herbs can provide an aromatic companion to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt, pepper, and spices at each stage of cooking.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding can steam your Brussels sprouts instead of sautéing them. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve proper caramelization.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality beef or sauce can affect the overall taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not cooking the beef thoroughly: Undercooked beef can be unsafe. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: Too much or too little sweet chili sauce can overpower the dish. Adjust according to your taste preference while keeping a balance between sweet and savory flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts that many home cooks might have.

How do I enhance the flavor of Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or basil, or by including more spices during cooking.

Can I use other vegetables with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for additional color and nutrition.

What is the best way to serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish is delicious served over rice or quinoa. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils for a vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything in advance and cook just before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully if allowed to sit.

Final Thoughts

The combination of sweet chili ground beef and Brussels sprouts offers a delightful balance of flavors that is sure to please any palate. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try today!