Name: Savory Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (Use lean to avoid greasiness.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Substitute with fresh garlic if preferred.); 1 tsp Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 stalks Green Onions (Sliced thin.); 2 tbsp Low Sodium Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free.); 1 tbsp Sriracha (Optional, adjust to spice preference.); 2 tbsp Avocado Oil (Use for sautéing.); 4 cups Shredded Brussels Sprouts (Pre-shredded saves time.); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Choose your favorite brand.); 2 tbsp Lime Juice (Use fresh for best flavor.); 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (Optional garnish.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling ground beef filled the air, transporting me to my favorite Asian bistro. This is where the magic happens with my Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet—a dish that marries succulent ground beef with beautifully caramelized Brussels sprouts in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when time is tight but the desire for a delicious, homemade meal is strong, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s not only incredibly quick to prepare but also brings a delightful balance of flavors with the added bonus of being dairy-free and gluten-free when you use tamari. Who said satisfying your cravings had to be complicated? Ready to dive into this easy weeknight winner? Let’s get cooking!

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Why Choose Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?

Flavor Fusion: This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, marrying tender ground beef with crispy Brussels sprouts.

Quick & Easy: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it an ideal choice for those looking to whip up something delicious without the fuss.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, whether served over rice or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and fiber, it’s a guilt-free meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for your family’s dinner table.

Versatile Variation Options: Don’t hesitate to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist! If you’re curious about similar recipes, check out my Garlic Butter Beef or the delightful Smothered Chicken Rice.

Enjoy this savory skillet dish tonight!

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

• In this delightful dish, you’ll find a combination of flavors that makes dinner a breeze!

For the Beef Mixture

Lean Ground Beef – This is your primary protein source; using lean helps keep the dish not too greasy.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth; feel free to substitute with fresh garlic for a brighter flavor.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor, adjust these to suit your taste buds!
Green Onions – These introduce a mild onion flavor; slicing them thin ensures they cook quickly.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides umami flavor while keeping sodium in check; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Sriracha (optional) – Gives an exciting kick of heat; feel free to leave it out or adjust according to your spice preference.

For the Brussels Sprouts

Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing; olive oil works just as well if you prefer something different.
Shredded Brussels Sprouts – Adds essential nutrients and texture; pre-shredded saves you time in the kitchen!
Sweet Chili Sauce – The star ingredient that brings the dish together with its sweet and spicy notes; choose your favorite brand.
Lime Juice – Brightens the overall flavors; fresh lime juice is key for the best results.
Sesame Seeds (optional) – A delightful garnish that adds a nutty finish to your dish; sprinkle on top before serving.

You’re just a step away from creating an exciting dinner that showcases the wonderful combination of ground beef and Brussels sprouts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the lean ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces, ensuring even cooking. Once browned, stir in garlic powder, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, green onions, sriracha, and low sodium soy sauce. Mix well, and then remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the shredded Brussels sprouts. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized with a lovely golden-brown hue. Look for edges that are slightly crispy, which adds a delightful texture to the dish.

Step 3: Combine the Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Return the cooked ground beef mixture to the skillet with the sautéed Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice, stirring everything together until evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and ensuring everything is heated through. The sweet chili sauce should create a glossy coating over the beef and Brussels sprouts.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish for added texture and nutty flavor. Serve the Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet immediately over rice, cauliflower rice, or in fresh lettuce wraps for a delicious meal. Enjoy your homemade, vibrant dinner!

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Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure the beef is cooked until browned and crumbled for even cooking. This prevents any greasiness in your dish.
Textural Harmony: Sauté Brussels sprouts until they’ve caramelized. Slightly crispy edges add wonderful texture that contrasts with the tender beef.
Adjust Spiciness: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with a smaller amount of sriracha and taste as you go. You can always add more!
Fresh Lime Juice: Don’t skip the fresh lime juice at the end; it’s crucial for Brightening the flavors of your ground beef and Brussels sprouts!
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the ground beef mixture and sauté the Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their textures and flavors until you’re ready to enjoy your meal. Simply reheat both components in a skillet over medium heat, then stir in the sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice for that final touch—this ensures they’re just as delicious as when freshly made. With these prep steps, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while still serving a wholesome dinner.

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to personalize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs—it’s all about creating a meal that satisfies you!

Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey for a leaner option; it’s a fantastic way to lighten up the dish while still enjoying great flavor.
Chicken Alternative: Substitute ground chicken; its mild flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet chili sauce.
Bison Boost: For a richer taste, try ground bison; its natural sweetness complements the Brussels sprouts wonderfully! Bison has a deeper flavor profile that makes this dish even more unique.
Veggie Delight: Switch the meat for lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based version. Just sauté them with the same seasonings for a fulfilling vegetarian meal.
Whole Brussels Sprouts: If you prefer a heartier bite, use halved or quartered Brussels sprouts; they’ll need a bit longer to cook but are deliciously tender.
Cauliflower Base: Skip the rice and serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative—just as satisfying with fewer carbs!
Spice It Up: Boost the flavor and heat with an extra dash of sriracha or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who love a spicy kick!
Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different sauces; mix in some hoisin for a sweeter twist or a dash of teriyaki sauce to change things up! You can also explore the vibrant spices found in the New Orleans Shrimp dishes for a creative spin.

Every change promises a new version of a family favorite—how exciting!

What to Serve with Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Looking to elevate your dinner experience? Pair these vibrant flavors with delightful sides and drinks that enhance every bite.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice absorbs the sweet chili sauce beautifully, adding a comforting element to the dish.
Crispy Garlic Green Beans: Their crunch and savory garlic flavor work harmoniously alongside the beef and sprouts, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, rice vinegar, and herbs adds a cool, crunchy balance to the sweet and savory notes of the skillet.
Mango Salsa: The bright and fruity salsa brings a layer of freshness that complements the savory beef and adds a pop of color to your plate.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness amplifies the sweet chili sauce, providing a filling and nutritious side that’s hard to resist.

For a heartwarming touch, serve with a chilled glass of iced green tea, bringing a soothing complement to your meal. Finish off the evening with a light coconut sorbet for dessert, offering a refreshing and sweet ending to your delightful dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the flavors of the sweet chili sauce while keeping the ground beef and Brussels sprouts fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm up the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or lime juice to restore moisture. Alternatively, use the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

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Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact buds with a vibrant green color. Avoid any that have yellowed leaves or dark spots all over, as these can indicate age or spoilage. Fresh sprouts will feel dense and heavy for their size, which means they’re ripe for roasting and sautéing!

How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the dish’s flavors while ensuring the beef and sprouts remain tasty.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts for up to 3 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal!

What if my Brussels sprouts become mushy after cooking?
Very important! Overcooking can lead to mushy Brussels sprouts, so aim to sauté them until they’re just tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. If your sprouts are already cooked but mushy, try adding a splash of fresh lime juice or cooking them briefly in a hot skillet to rejuvenate their texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If you’re serving it to pets, make sure to avoid any ingredients like onions or garlic that can be harmful to them. For allergies, always double-check the label on your sweet chili sauce for any hidden allergens!

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of sriracha and taste as you cook. You can always add more sriracha later. Alternatively, leave it out completely, and instead, include more sweet chili sauce for sweetness without heat!