There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a delicious meal in just 30 minutes—especially on those busy nights when fast food suddenly feels like the only option. Let me take you on a flavorful journey with this Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe. Imagine the sweet aroma of chili sauce blending effortlessly with the savory notes of well-seasoned ground beef, all while tender Brussels sprouts caramelize to perfection in the pan.
I first whipped up this dish in a fit of inspiration after a long day, rummaging through the pantry for something quick yet satisfying. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that transforms plain weeknight dinners into something special. Plus, it fits perfectly into a dairy-free and gluten-free lifestyle! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who simply enjoys homemade meals, this dish delivers convenience without compromising on taste. Ready to impress yourself (and maybe guests) without much fuss? Let’s dive into this easy, Asian-inspired delight!
Why is Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you can’t compromise on flavor.
Flavor Explosion: With sweet chili sauce and tender Brussels sprouts, each bite packs a punch.
Healthy Twist: It’s a delightful, dairy-free, and gluten-free dish that suits various dietary needs.
Versatile: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken and experiment with different vegetables for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner gatherings, and watch the compliments roll in! Plus, consider checking out our guide on 30-minute meals for more inspiration.
Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Beef
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic can offer a more pronounced taste.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on your preference.
• Green Onions – Introduces a mild onion flavor with quick cooking time; chives can be used if green onions are unavailable.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Offers umami while keeping sodium levels in check; use low sodium tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
• Sriracha (optional) – Adds a spicy kick; feel free to omit for a milder experience.
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Avocado Oil – Ideal for sautéing, providing a healthy fat option; olive oil can be a great substitute.
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts – The star vegetable, cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully; whole Brussels sprouts can be used but require longer cooking.
For the Sauce
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings a delightful sweetness and a hint of spice; select your favorite brand for the best flavor.
• Lime – Fresh lime juice brightens the dish; lemon juice serves as a suitable alternative.
For Garnish
• Sesame Seeds (optional) – Adds garnish and texture; feel free to skip if you don’t have any on hand.
This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick to assemble but also satisfies your cravings without taking too much time away from your busy day.
How to Make Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
-
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, crumble the lean ground beef. Add sliced green onions and season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
-
Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add avocado oil to the skillet, then toss in the shredded Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper, sautéing until they become soft and caramelized, which should take around 5-6 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and add the sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything well until heated through and combined nicely, about 3 minutes.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Plate your dish and serve topped with sesame seeds for added texture. Enjoy it over rice or in lettuce wraps for a delightful meal!
Optional: Add chopped cilantro or sliced chili for extra flavor and garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
Creating a delightful dining experience is easy when you know the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal.
- Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as a wonderful base, absorbing the flavorful sweet chili sauce and balancing the dish’s savory elements.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice adds a fresh crunch while allowing the bold flavors of the beef and sprouts to shine through.
- Asian Cabbage Salad: This refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots, dressed lightly, adds a crisp texture and a lightness to your meal that perfectly complements the richness of the beef.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Packed with nutrients, these vibrant greens introduce additional crunch and color while harmonizing beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the main dish.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light soy sauce dressing, these noodles add a delightful chewiness and silky texture, making for a filling yet easy-to-eat option.
- Chilled Sake: An excellent drink choice that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes, sake’s subtle sweetness will accentuate the umami flavors of your meal.
- Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, this creamy, dairy-free treat adds a refreshing, tropical finish to your meal, perfect for cleansing the palate after the bold flavors of the main dish.
Storage Tips for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing for best results.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stove until hot, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain the dish’s flavor and texture when reviving those delicious ground beef and Brussels sprouts!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these tasty twists and swaps that will make your meal even more exciting!
-
Paleo-Friendly: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a grain-free base that pairs beautifully with the dish.
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or extra sriracha for those who crave heat. The added spice elevates the flavor profile even further.
-
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle in crushed peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch and nutty richness that complements the sweet chili sauce.
-
Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or snap peas during sautéing to increase the veggie goodness. These added colors and flavors brighten up the dish.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Replace low sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos for a fantastic gluten-free alternative without sacrificing umami.
-
Herbal Freshness: Fresh basil or cilantro added at the end brightens the dish and adds a delightful aroma; a little goes a long way!
-
Sweet Flavor Variation: Swap sweet chili sauce for hoisin sauce to introduce a different layer of sweetness and flavor complexity.
Experiment with these variations to turn each dinner into a delightful culinary adventure!
Helpful Tricks for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
-
Prevent Greasiness: Use lean ground beef to keep the dish light; this helps avoid a greasy texture that can overwhelm flavors.
-
Quick Prep: Opt for pre-shredded Brussels sprouts to save time. This makes prepping for your quick dinner even more efficient!
-
Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a teaspoon of fresh ginger along with garlic for a more aromatic flavor that complements the sweet chili sauce.
-
Watch the Sodium: Be cautious when using additional salt since the soy sauce contributes significant saltiness; balance flavors by tasting as you go.
-
Versatile Protein: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken; this keeps the recipe versatile while maintaining the delicious, satisfying taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance; simply store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve dinner, combine the prepped beef with the sweet chili sauce and lime juice, then warm it through for just a few minutes—a process that takes merely 5-7 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy the dish just as delicious as if it were freshly made, while saving yourself valuable time during a busy weeknight. Plus, if you prepare the beef and veggies ahead, you’ll have a quick, flavorful meal ready to go in no time!
Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact heads with vibrant green color. Avoid those with dark spots or yellowing leaves, as they’re likely overripe.
How should I store Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
For optimal storage, keep the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it has cooled completely to prevent moisture from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, place it in a freezer-safe container after it has completely cooled. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help maintain the textures and flavors!
What should I do if the Brussels sprouts are not caramelizing?
If you find your Brussels sprouts are not caramelizing the way you’d like, check the heat—cooking on medium-high helps achieve that gorgeous brown color. Add a bit of oil if the pan seems dry, and give them more time to cook, stirring occasionally. About 5-6 minutes should suffice; if they need more, don’t hesitate to let them sit just a little longer.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is both dairy-free and gluten-free (with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari). If you’re serving this to someone with allergies, always double-check the ingredient labels, especially on sauces, to ensure they align with dietary needs.
Can I use different meats or vegetables?
The more the merrier! You can definitely substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even bison for varied flavors. Adding in extra veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can also give the dish a nutritious boost while customizing the taste to your liking.
Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, crumble the lean ground beef. Add sliced green onions and season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
- Add avocado oil to the skillet, then toss in the shredded Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper, sautéing until they become soft and caramelized, which should take around 5-6 minutes.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and add the sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything well until heated through and combined nicely, about 3 minutes.
- Plate your dish and serve topped with sesame seeds for added texture. Enjoy it over rice or in lettuce wraps for a delightful meal!