Whenever I smell the savory aroma of ground beef and Brussels sprouts simmering on the stove, it takes me back to a cozy winter evening years ago. I can still picture myself huddled around the dinner table with my family, eagerly awaiting the steaming plate of this comforting dish. The tender beef and crisp-tender Brussels sprouts were the perfect pairing, and the flavors mingled together in a way that was simply irresistible.
As I took that first bite, the beefy richness and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts danced on my tongue. It was like a hug for my taste buds – warming, satisfying, and utterly delicious. From that moment on, ground beef and Brussels sprouts became a go-to meal in our household, one that we’d turn to time and time again when we needed a quick, nourishing dinner that would please everyone.
Why This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
What makes this ground beef and Brussels sprouts recipe so special is the way it balances the robust flavors of the beef with the subtle sweetness and crunch of the Brussels sprouts. By sautéing the sprouts in the same pan as the beef, you’re infusing them with all the savory goodness, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that will have your family coming back for seconds.
The key is to cook the ground beef until it’s perfectly browned and crumbly, then tossing in the Brussels sprouts to soak up all those delectable pan juices. A sprinkle of garlic, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of lemon juice tie everything together, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef: Look for lean ground beef, as it will cook up nicely without too much grease.
- Brussels sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts, and trim off any tough or discolored outer leaves.
- Onion: A diced yellow or white onion adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a lovely savory note.
- Worcestershire sauce: This umami-rich condiment enhances the beefy flavor.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
Step-by-Step Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Instructions
Preparing Your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
This ground beef and Brussels sprouts recipe comes together quickly, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan to cook everything in one pan for maximum flavor. Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, you’re ready to get cooking!
1- Start by heating a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Once the beef is cooked through, add the diced onion to the pan and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3- Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes aromatic.
4- Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts to the pan and toss everything together. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are crisp-tender.
5- Drizzle in the Worcestershire sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6- Serve your delicious ground beef and Brussels sprouts immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your ground beef and Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef – work in batches if needed to get a nice, even browning.
– Be sure to trim the Brussels sprouts properly, removing any tough or discolored outer leaves.
– Resist the urge to stir the Brussels sprouts too frequently, as this can make them soggy. Let them sear and develop a nice caramelized edge.
– If the pan seems dry while cooking the sprouts, add a splash of broth or water to prevent them from burning.
Serving and Storing Your Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Perfect Pairings for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
This ground beef and Brussels sprouts dish is a true crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it alongside roasted potatoes, a simple green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all the delicious juices. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice.
As for beverages, a crisp white wine or a full-bodied red would be the perfect accompaniment. And don’t forget, this dish also makes a fantastic game day snack when paired with cold beers or your favorite cocktails.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, ground beef and Brussels sprouts is a dish that holds up exceptionally well in the fridge. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container and they’ll keep for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
For meal prep, you can even make this dish in advance. Cook the ground beef and Brussels sprouts as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, making for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Creative Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Variations
While the classic combination of ground beef and Brussels sprouts is tough to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a creative spin on this dish. Try swapping in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. You can also experiment with different spice blends, like chili powder and cumin for a Tex-Mex twist, or curry powder and coconut milk for a Thai-inspired version.
For a seasonal take, consider adding diced butternut squash or roasted root veggies to the mix. And if you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, stir in cooked pasta or orzo to turn it into a one-pan meal.
Making Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can make. For a low-carb or keto version, skip the onion and serve the ground beef and Brussels sprouts over steamed cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, be sure to use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or substitute tamari or coconut aminos. And for a vegan or vegetarian take, simply swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen Brussels sprouts work great in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the pan.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add some heat, try stirring in a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce, along with the Worcestershire sauce.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time and reheat it?
A: Yes, this dish reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, then simply warm it up in a skillet or the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How can I adjust the serving size for a larger or smaller crowd?
A: This recipe serves about 4 people as a main dish. To scale it up or down, simply adjust the amounts of ground beef, Brussels sprouts, and other ingredients accordingly.
Q: Why are my Brussels sprouts coming out soggy?
A: If your Brussels sprouts are turning out soggy, it’s likely because you’re overcrowding the pan or not letting them sear properly. Make sure to cook them in a single layer and resist the urge to stir them too frequently.
Authentic 30-Minute Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Authentic 30-Minute Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a delicious and easy-to-make weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish features tender ground beef and roasted Brussels sprouts, seasoned to perfection and ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tbsp of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly.
3. 3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. 4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then add the cooked Brussels sprouts to the ground beef. Stir in the dried oregano and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6. Serve the Authentic 30-Minute Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts immediately, while hot and fresh.
Notes
This dish is a great option for busy weeknights, as it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, or add in any other vegetables you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Ground beef and Brussels sprouts is a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. The perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and crisp-tender flavors makes it a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it as part of a special occasion spread, this recipe is sure to impress. So don’t be afraid to give it a try – I promise, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed this delicious ground beef and Brussels sprouts dish!
