If you’re searching for a dish that marries bold flavors with nutrient-packed veggies, look no further than this vibrant Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe. It’s a fantastic way to transform humble ingredients into a satisfying, colorful meal that feels both comforting and fresh. The tender, savory beef blends beautifully with caramelized Brussels sprouts, all wrapped in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this dish brings warmth and excitement to your table.

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts. Each item contributes a unique touch, from savory seasonings to fresh brightness.

1 pound lean ground beef: Provides rich, hearty flavor and protein, forming the savory backbone of the dish.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth that complements the beef perfectly.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors and sharpens each bite.
1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of bright green color.
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Brings a subtle umami richness without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): Introduces a little heat that livens up the flavor profile, optional if you prefer mild.
1 tablespoon avocado oil: Perfect for sautéing, with a high smoke point and a light, buttery taste.
1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts: Offers a slightly nutty, caramelized crunch that perfectly balances the beef.
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweet and spicy notes, tying all the ingredients together with a sticky glaze.
1/2 of a lime, juiced: Introduces a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Sprinkle for a lovely visual pop and a hint of nutty crunch.

How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Build Flavor

Start by crumbling the ground beef into a large hot skillet. Add in the green onions then season everything with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of sriracha. A good dose of soy sauce finishes this step by infusing the meat with deep, savory umami. Cooking the beef through until it’s browned and fragrant is the first milestone toward creating this fantastic dish. Once done, set it aside on a plate—it’s about to team up with the Brussels sprouts for the grand finale.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, heat up a tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss in all those shredded Brussels sprouts and season with salt and pepper. The goal here is to soften them until they’re caramelized and tender but still have that wonderful bite. This step is where the magic happens, as the natural sugars in the sprouts develop a beautiful golden hue that adds sweetness and texture to complement the beef perfectly.

Step 3: Combine and Add the Sauce

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir everything luscious and well-coated. This step brings all the savory, sweet, and tangy elements together in perfect harmony. The sauce clings to each bite, creating that addictive sticky coating that makes this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish an instant favorite.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling on some sesame seeds for extra texture and an appealing touch. At this point, you’re ready to serve your masterpiece hot, ideally over steamed rice or alongside your favorite grain. This final presentation step elevates the dish, turning simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s sure to impress.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

To really bring out the dish’s character, consider garnishing with extra green onions or a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. Adding toasted sesame seeds not only gives a lovely crunch but also introduces a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet chili glaze.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce. Alternatively, serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or roasted sweet potatoes for added texture and color contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, scoop the cooked mixture into crispy lettuce cups for a refreshing handheld option perfect for casual dinners or parties. You can also serve it on warm flatbreads or tortillas with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a fusion-style meal that keeps everyone talking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your delicious meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making second-day servings even better. Just be sure to cool the dish before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to keep Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts for longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or bag, label it, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle defrosting.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the texture—adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve those caramelized sprouts and juicy beef without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh Brussels sprouts offer the best texture, frozen shredded Brussels sprouts can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture after thawing to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on whether you include the optional sriracha and how much sweet chili sauce you use. You can easily adjust the spice to your liking by adding more or less sriracha or choosing a milder chili sauce.

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work well in this recipe and offer slightly different flavors. Even plant-based ground alternatives can be used if you want a vegetarian-friendly version with a similar texture.

What can I serve instead of rice?

If rice isn’t your preference, try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles. These options will easily soak up the sauce and complement the vibrant flavors in the Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts.

How do I get my Brussels sprouts caramelized perfectly?

Make sure your skillet is hot and don’t overcrowd the Brussels sprouts. Stir occasionally, but allow them time to sit and brown before stirring to achieve that lovely caramelization and sweet flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish is a game-changer for anyone looking to combine quick, wholesome cooking with incredible flavor. It’s one of those recipes that feels special yet comes together effortlessly, making weeknight dinners more exciting. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!