Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a unique way to enjoy brussels sprouts, this dish surely stands out for its vibrant taste and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet chili sauce with savory ground beef creates a deliciously addictive flavor profile.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Ground beef provides protein while brussels sprouts add vitamins and fiber to the meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This tool allows you to cook the ground beef and sauté the brussels sprouts evenly.
- Spatula: A spatula helps in easily crumbling the beef and mixing everything without damaging the ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
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 Finishing Touches
- 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
Add the ground beef to a large skillet and crumble it using a spatula. Add in the green onions along with garlic powder, kosher salt, pepper, sriracha (if using), and soy sauce. Cook until browned throughout, then remove from 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 freshly ground black pepper. Sauté them until they are soft and caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the sautéed brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce along with lime juice. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well-coated in sauce.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
Top your dish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice or any preferred side dish for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
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 garnishes that enhance its sweet and savory profile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Over Rice
- Serve the ground beef and brussels sprouts mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the mixture into fresh lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
With Noodles
- Toss the mixture with noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, to create a satisfying stir-fry-inspired dish.
Topped with Fried Egg
- Add a fried egg on top for an extra protein boost and rich flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving to add freshness and color.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is both delicious and appealing.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh brussels sprouts for better taste and texture. They should feel firm to the touch.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Cook ground beef until just browned; this keeps it juicy. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference. Start small if unsure!
- Caramelize the Brussels Sprouts: Make sure to sauté them until they’re nicely caramelized for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip sesame seeds! They add a pleasant crunch that enhances the overall eating experience.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different types of sweet chili sauce or even homemade versions for unique flavors each time you prepare this dish.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Adding side dishes can complete your meal featuring Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts. Here are some tasty options that complement this recipe well.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Lightly scented rice that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal base for this dish. -
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting contrast to the savory beef. -
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a natural sweetness that balances out the flavors in your dish. -
Asian Cucumber Salad
A refreshing salad with cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar adds crunch and brightens up your meal. -
Stir-Fried Broccoli
Crisp broccoli tossed in soy sauce adds color, nutrients, and harmony between textures in your plate. -
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a healthy alternative that pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking with ground beef and brussels sprouts can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Beef: Cooking ground beef for too long can lead to dryness. Ensure you cook it just until it’s no longer pink.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping on seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always season your ingredients to enhance their natural taste.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality beef or brussels sprouts can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for a better meal.
- Not Prepping Ingredients First: Failing to prepare all your ingredients before cooking can slow you down. Measure and chop everything beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Not keeping an eye on cooking times may lead to undercooked or overcooked veggies. Follow timing closely to achieve the perfect texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust the spices and sauces based on your personal preference.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, frozen brussels sprouts work well. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
What sides pair well with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
This dish pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How do I store leftovers of Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef and brussels sprouts create a delightful balance of flavors that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe offers many customization options, allowing you to tailor it according to your tastes. Give it a try today!
Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts is a quick and satisfying dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in just 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty meal that even picky eaters will love. The combination of tender ground beef and caramelized brussels sprouts creates a delightful texture, while the sweet chili sauce adds a delicious twist. Whether served over rice or in lettuce wraps, this dish is versatile and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 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)
- 1/2 of a lime (juiced)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef using a spatula to crumble it. Add green onions, garlic powder, soy sauce, sriracha (if desired), salt, and pepper; cook until fully browned.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add avocado oil and sauté the shredded brussels sprouts with salt and pepper for about 5-7 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with brussels sprouts, pour in sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Serve warm over rice or in lettuce wraps; garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
