The savory aroma of sizzling ground beef mingling with the lightly caramelized crunch of Brussels sprouts is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. If you’re on the hunt for a quick and easy dinner that combines a delightful sweet and savory punch, look no further than this Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe! Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also elevates your weeknight meals with an Asian-inspired flair. Perfect for meal prep or a busy weeknight, it’s a wholesome and low-carb option that will have you swapping takeout for a homemade delight in no time. Are you curious to see how easy it truly is to whip up this flavorful combo? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Quick, Easy, and Delicious: In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Flavor Explosion: The sweet chili sauce brings a unique sweet-savory balance that will impress everyone at the table. Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead, this dish can be easily stored and reheated for quick lunches throughout the week. Crowd-Pleasing: Great for families or gatherings—everyone will love this hearty, comforting option that’s sure to satisfy. If you enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, don’t miss my Hawaiian Bbq Chicken for another easy dinner idea!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Beef
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness; you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with fresh garlic if you prefer a more intense taste.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor and cooks quickly; yellow onion works as a substitute.
For the Sauce
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Introduces umami flavor; choose gluten-free tamari for dietary needs.
• Sriracha – Adds spice; feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – This key ingredient delivers the sweet-savory balance; pick your favorite brand like Sky Valley.
• Lime Juice – Brings fresh acidity to brighten the dish.
For the Vegetables
• Avocado Oil – Used for sautéing; you can switch it out for olive oil if preferred.
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts – The star veggie packed with nutrients and fiber; halving them gives a different texture.
For Garnish
• Sesame Seeds – This optional garnish adds a lovely textural element and visual appeal; sprinkle generously if you like!
With these simple ingredients at hand, you’ll create a delightful Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish that’s sure to impress your family and keep fast food cravings at bay!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat, adding the lean ground beef. Crumble it as it cooks, mixing in the chopped green onions, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, low sodium soy sauce, and sriracha. Stir occasionally, allowing the beef to brown evenly for about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and set the beef mixture aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, add a splash of avocado oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts and sauté, stirring frequently, until they become tender and caramelized, around 5-7 minutes. Look for a lovely golden color and a fragrant aroma to ensure they are perfectly done. Once cooked, make space in the skillet for the beef.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Reintroduce the cooked ground beef mixture back into the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. Continue to cook over medium heat for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Look for everything to become hot and well-incorporated, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet as you mix.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once thoroughly heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts warm, garnishing with sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. This dish pairs wonderfully over rice or quinoa, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb treat.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
• Prep Ahead: Streamline your cooking by chopping green onions and shredding Brussels sprouts earlier in the day. This reduces hands-on time during dinner!
• Adjust for Heat: Tailor the amount of sriracha to match your family’s spice tolerance. A little goes a long way; you can always add more later!
• Meal Prep Mastery: This dish keeps well! Store it in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain the perfect texture of the ground beef and Brussels sprouts.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the Brussels sprouts while sautéing. They should be tender but retain a slight crunch; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
• Garnish for Flair: Toast your sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor before sprinkling them on top. This simple step enhances the presentation and taste of your dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can cook the ground beef mixture and sauté the Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but ensures that you have a flavorful meal ready to go. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, add the sweet chili sauce and lime juice, and heat thoroughly, allowing 2-3 minutes for everything to meld together. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors just as deliciously as if you had made them fresh that day!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Variations
Get ready to make this satisfying dish even more exciting with personalized twists and substitutions!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter yet equally flavorful option. Your family won’t even notice the difference!
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Cabbage Alternative: If Brussels sprouts aren’t available, shredded cabbage makes a delightful substitute with a similar crunch and taste. It’s a perfect way to keep that comforting texture!
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Add Heat: Spice things up by adding more sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust based on your heat preference to make it just right for you.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas during the sauté. This adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
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Sweet Twist: For a hint of sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup into the sauce. It’ll give the dish a different depth that’s simply irresistible!
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Rice Variations: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or switch it up with quinoa for added protein. Both pair wonderfully with the delightful flavors of this dish.
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Sauce Choices: Experiment with different brands of sweet chili sauce or try a homemade version for a fresh twist on the traditional flavor. Check out how to make an easy homemade variation!
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Topping Ideas: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for a crunchy garnish, adding texture while enhancing the overall flavor. It’s all about those little finishing touches!
With these variations, you can transform the classic Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts into a fresh culinary adventure, ensuring every bite is exciting. If you’re excited about quick and easy dinner ideas, don’t forget to try my Hawaiian Bbq Chicken for another scrumptious experience!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Freezer: Avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of Brussels sprouts may become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: For optimal flavor and texture, gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Meal Prep Tip: Pre-cooked ground beef can be stored separately. Mix with fresh Brussels sprouts and sauce when ready to serve for the best results.
What to Serve with Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
The vibrant flavors and textures in this dish create the perfect opportunity to build an inviting meal for family or friends.
- Jasmine Rice: A fragrant choice that absorbs the delicious sweet chili sauce, enhancing every bite of the beef and veggies.
- Quinoa: This nutrient-rich alternative offers a subtle nuttiness and is packed with protein, making your meal heartier and healthier.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds crunch and freshness, perfectly balancing the savory flavors of the dish.
- Cucumber Salad: Lightly seasoned cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast and cleanse the palate between bites of the rich beef.
- Garlic Toast: Crunchy and buttery, this could be a delightful addition to soak up the sauce, making every meal feel like a treat.
- Mango Smoothie: Creamy and tropical, a mango smoothie serves as a refreshing drink that pairs beautifully with the spice of the dish.
- Sesame Noodles: Add a side of sesame noodles for a flavorful twist that stands up to the boldness of the sweet chili sauce and ground beef.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light and fruity dessert like sorbet complements the meal beautifully while providing a satisfying finish that’s not too heavy.
Each suggestion beautifully elevates the experience of enjoying Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, delighting both the palate and the soul.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef works best for this dish?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef, which has less fat, is ideal for this recipe as it provides protein without being too greasy. However, if you’re looking for lighter options, try using ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives still bring great flavor and make for a wholesome meal!
How should I store leftover Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy another serving, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring you keep the flavors intact and the Brussels sprouts nice and tender.
Can I freeze this dish?
I recommend avoiding freezing this dish. Freezing can compromise the texture of the Brussels sprouts, making them mushy once thawed. If you’d like to prep ahead, consider storing the cooked ground beef separately and mixing it with fresh Brussels sprouts and sauce just before serving for the best results.
What are some potential troubleshooting tips if my Brussels sprouts turn mushy?
Very often, Brussels sprouts become mushy if overcooked. To prevent this, sauté them just until tender and caramelized, keeping an eye on the clock—around 5-7 minutes should do the trick! If you notice they are getting too soft, it’s a sign to take them off the heat promptly.
Can this recipe accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be tailored to fit various dietary needs. If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, simply swap out regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari. For those with spice allergies, feel free to omit sriracha or substitute it with a milder condiment. Always adjust ingredients according to your family’s preferences!
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for ones that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any with dark spots or yellowing leaves, as these can indicate overripeness. If you can find fresh, pre-shredded Brussels sprouts, they can save you a ton of prep time!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts: Quick Sweet Chili Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks with green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha for 7-10 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add avocado oil and heat over medium-high. Sauté shredded Brussels sprouts until tender and caramelized for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture back into the skillet with the Brussels sprouts, adding sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds. Enjoy over rice or quinoa, or on its own for a low-carb option.
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