Sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is quick and easy, making it suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of lean ground beef and tender brussels sprouts not only offers a satisfying meal but also packs a nutritional punch. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Beef Mixture
- For the Brussels Sprouts
- For the Sauce
- How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Over Rice
- In Lettuce Wraps
- With Noodles
- On Top of Quinoa
- In Tacos
- How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts spicy?
- Can I use frozen brussels sprouts?
- What should I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
- How do I customize this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet chili sauce adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory ground beef and earthy brussels sprouts.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Loaded with protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the brussels sprouts, this meal is both tasty and healthy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or even as a filling in lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
- Easy to Customize: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These items will help streamline the cooking process and ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the ground beef while also caramelizing the brussels sprouts.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your flavors are balanced, especially when using sauces like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.

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 the Sauce
- 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.
- Stir in the green onions, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, sriracha, and soy sauce.
- Cook until browned through; 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, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Sauté until they soften and caramelize.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet.
- Add in the sweet chili sauce and lime juice.
- Stir everything together until coated evenly in sauce.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
- Top with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve over rice or your preferred side dishes for a complete meal.
Enjoy this delicious recipe that showcases how simple ingredients can come together for an impressive meal!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Serving Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts can be versatile and fun. This dish pairs well with various sides or toppings, making it a great option for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Over Rice
- Serve the sweet chili ground beef and brussels sprouts over steamed rice for a filling meal. Jasmine or brown rice works well to absorb the flavors.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps. Fill them with the beef and brussels sprouts mixture for a fresh, crunchy bite.
With Noodles
- Toss the mixture with cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or soba, for a hearty Asian-inspired dish that combines flavors and textures.
On Top of Quinoa
- Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein. Serve the ground beef and brussels sprouts on a bed of quinoa for a nutritious twist.
In Tacos
- Use corn or flour tortillas to make tacos filled with the savory beef and brussels sprouts. Top with extra green onions or avocado for added creaminess.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To achieve the best results when preparing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose quality beef: Select lean ground beef for a healthier dish that still delivers rich flavor without excess fat.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning of both the beef and brussels sprouts.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify sriracha according to your heat preference, keeping it mild or adding more for an extra kick.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic powder and green onions enhance flavor significantly compared to older pantry items.
- Experiment with sauces: Feel free to mix in different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for unique flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
To complement your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dish, consider pairing it with these delicious side options.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and crunch, providing additional nutrients alongside your main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances out the savory flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar adds brightness to your meal.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a delightful contrast in flavor while being healthy.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing complements the Asian-inspired flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds an elegant touch while enhancing the dish’s overall presentation.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a base; it’s light yet filling alongside your main dish.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be an excellent starter that prepares your palate for the savory main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not seasoning adequately – Failing to season the dish properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings during cooking.
- Overcooking the beef – Ground beef can become tough if overcooked. Cook until just browned and no longer pink for the best texture.
- Skipping the caramelization – Not allowing the brussels sprouts to caramelize can lead to a lack of flavor depth. Be patient and sauté them until golden brown.
- Using low-quality ingredients – Poor-quality ground beef or brussels sprouts can affect the overall taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for better results.
- Ignoring serving suggestions – Serving Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts alone can miss out on enhancing flavors. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy reference.
Reheating Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts:
How do I make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts spicy?
You can add more sriracha or red pepper flakes during cooking to increase the spice level according to your taste preference.
Can I use frozen brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen brussels sprouts; just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking for best results.
What should I serve with Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a salad.
How do I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the sauce by using teriyaki or a homemade stir-fry sauce.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different sauces or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that brings together the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. The lean ground beef, seasoned to perfection, pairs beautifully with tender brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a luscious sweet chili sauce. This recipe not only delivers a quick and delicious dinner but also packs in nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 pound shredded brussels sprouts
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- Juice from half a lime
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and crumble the ground beef into it. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, green onions, sriracha, and soy sauce. Cook until browned through; remove from skillet.
- Add avocado oil to the same skillet. Toss in shredded brussels sprouts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until they soften and caramelize.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the brussels sprouts. Mix in sweet chili sauce and lime juice until well combined.
- Serve warm over rice or your choice of side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg