As I tossed Brussels sprouts into the pan, their vibrant green color seemed to dance with excitement. The aroma of sizzling ground beef soon filled my kitchen, transporting me to a bustling Asian market where flavors mingled and friendships blossomed. The centerpiece of today’s culinary adventure is the Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet. In just 30 minutes, this easy, one-pan dish offers not only a fantastic meal but also a delightful break from takeout. It’s focused on wholesome ingredients and comes together with minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights. Just imagine the warmth of savory beef combined with the sweetness of chili sauce, all while enjoying the nutritional goodness of Brussels sprouts. Don’t you want to dive into this deliciousness and see how quickly it can become a household favorite?
Why is this dish a must-try?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory combination tantalizes your taste buds, offering a taste of Asia in every bite.
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to savor your creation.
Versatile Ingredients: Use lean ground beef or substitute with turkey, chicken, or tofu for a customized twist. Feel free to introduce other veggies too! Check out this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for another quick meal inspiration.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is guaranteed to impress family and friends, making it a hit at any dinner table.
Wholesome Goodness: Packed with nutrients from the Brussels sprouts, it’s a delicious way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
Experience the delightful simplicity of this dish with the essential components you’ll need.
For the Beef
• Lean Ground Beef – The star protein of the dish; feel free to swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth; fresh minced garlic can give an even more aromatic touch.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust based on your taste preference.
• Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor and a pop of color; can be replaced with regular onions or shallots if needed.
For the Sauce
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Brings umami richness to the dish; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Sriracha (optional) – Adds a spicy kick; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – The key to the dish’s sweetness; pick your favorite brand to suit your taste.
• Lime Juice – Brightens and balances the flavors; fresh lime is best for maximum zest.
For the Veggies
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts – The main vegetable, packed with nutrition; halved Brussels sprouts can be used but will take longer to cook.
For Cooking
• Avocado Oil – Ideal for sautéing; olive oil or another high-temperature oil works as substitutes.
• Sesame Seeds (optional) – For garnish, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and crunch.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious!
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-high heat, add the lean ground beef and crumble it with a spatula. Sprinkle in garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and sriracha, mixing well. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, until the beef is browned and fully cooked, and the juices have evaporated. Stir in green onions just before removing from the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add avocado oil. Once shimmering, toss in the shredded Brussels sprouts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for approximately 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and lightly caramelized, showcasing a vibrant green color. This step enhances their natural sweetness and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice, stirring everything together to combine well. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and ensuring everything is heated through. The mixture should have a nice glossy finish from the sauce.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
Once combined, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added texture and visual appeal. Serve your Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts warm over rice or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Indulge in this savory dish that’s sure to delight!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to rehydrate if necessary, ensuring the dish retains its delicious texture.
Additional Tip: Enjoy this savory Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts meal by prepping a larger batch, allowing you to savor it throughout your busy week!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Quality Meat Matters: Choose lean ground beef for better flavor and less greasiness; quality cuts enhance the overall dish.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper aroma and more robust flavor in your ground beef.
- Cook Brussels Right: Sauté Brussels sprouts until they’re caramelized; this brings out their natural sweetness and avoids a mushy texture.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust your sweet chili sauce and lime juice to achieve the perfect sweet and tangy balance in the dish—taste as you go!
- Substitution Savvy: Feel free to swap out meats or add extra veggies; swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or experiment with bell peppers or snap peas.
- Garnish for Appeal: Don’t skip the sesame seeds; they add a delightful crunch and enhance the visual appeal of your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.
Make Ahead Options
Prepping the Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the ground beef and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can shred the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When it’s time to eat, just heat the beef in a skillet, sauté the Brussels sprouts until tender, and combine with the sweet chili sauce and lime juice. This ensures every bite is just as delicious and vibrant as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Looking to create a complete meal around this delightful and easy dish? Here are some perfect pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Serves as a neutral base, soaking up the sweet chili sauce while adding a delicate floral note.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that brings a nutty flavor and a fun, chewy texture to your meal. Mix in diced cucumbers and tomatoes for freshness!
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots add color, crunch, and more nutrients, creating a vibrant dish full of variety.
- Miso Soup: This savory soup offers a warm, comforting touch with umami depth, balancing the sweet elements of your main dish beautifully.
- Cucumber Salad: Light, refreshing, and slightly tangy, this salad enhances the meal and adds a crisp texture that contrasts with the sautéed sprouts.
- Lime-infused Sparkling Water: This refreshing drink complements the flavors of the dish, with zesty lime echoing the lime juice from the recipe.
- Honeydew Sorbet: For dessert, a light sorbet will cleanse your palate and provide a sweet finish without overwhelming heaviness.
- Sesame Noodles: These tasty noodles tossed in sesame oil and green onions complement the Asian-inspired profile of your meal while adding satisfying texture.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to take this delicious recipe and make it your own with these fun and flavorful twists!
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Turkey Option: Swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter protein alternative. The dish remains flavorful and satisfying!
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Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu instead of ground beef for a vegetarian version. Just crumble it before sautéing—perfectly filling and equally delicious!
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Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level and bring a satisfying zing to your meal.
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Mixed Veggies: Toss in a handful of snap peas or bell pepper slices for an additional crunch and beautiful color variety. This makes mealtime even more vibrant!
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Sweet Substitution: Experiment with different brands of sweet chili sauce or try making your own for a unique flavor profile. You may just discover a new favorite!
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Citrusy Twist: Replace lime juice with lemon for a bright, zesty flavor. The freshness can completely change the dish’s vibe!
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Herb Boost: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil after cooking for a fragrant herbal kick that enhances the dish beautifully.
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Grain Ideas: Serve this dish over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthy twist inspired by those tempting Asian flavors!
Why not combine a few of these variations for an exciting twist on your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts? You can take it from a weeknight staple to a unique culinary adventure that keeps everyone eager for dinner! If you’re looking for other quick and satisfying dishes, try out these Hot Ham Appetizer or a delightful plate of Butter Shrimp Rice.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and vibrant green. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft, as they may be overripe. The size of the sprouts can vary, but try to select ones that are similar in size for even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very important! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it up to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or skillet until warmed through.
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Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to a well-sealed container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts turn mushy?
If your Brussels sprouts turn mushy, it may mean they were cooked too long or at too high a heat. Next time, sauté them just until they’re tender and caramelized, which usually takes about 5–8 minutes. Stir regularly and keep the heat at medium for optimal results. You can also try using a combination of shredded and halved Brussels sprouts to achieve a mix of textures.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This Quick Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish is completely dairy-free and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If you’re feeding pets, avoid sharing with them due to the inclusion of onion and garlic, as both can be harmful to them. Always check for any allergens specific to your guests’ dietary restrictions.
Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?
The more the merrier! You can easily swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tofu or tempeh instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times appropriately, as veggie proteins may cook faster.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts: A Sweet Chili Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the ground beef by adding it to a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumbling it with a spatula. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sriracha. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and juices evaporate. Stir in green onions before removing from the skillet.
- Sauté the Brussels sprouts in the same skillet, adding avocado oil and tossing in the shredded sprouts. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5–8 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Combine ingredients by returning cooked beef to the skillet with sprouts. Pour in sweet chili sauce and lime juice, stir well, and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm over rice or on its own. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds for garnish.
