Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts are a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The sizzling aroma of seasoned beef mingling with the nutty sweetness of sautéed Brussels sprouts will make your kitchen feel inviting. This meal is special not only for its delicious taste but also for its ease of preparation, seasonal appeal, and sustainable ingredients that support local farmers. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, you’ll find this dish to be both satisfying and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this recipe for Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of savory ground beef and crisp-tender Brussels sprouts creates a delightful taste experience that works beautifully for both casual dinners and special occasions. Plus, this dish is highly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sauces to make it your own!
Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight
This recipe shines with fresh, local, seasonal ingredients. The vibrant green Brussels sprouts, with their earthy aroma, provide a beautiful contrast to the rich hues of the ground beef and the warm golden shades of sautéed onion and garlic. As the Brussels sprouts wilt and caramelize in the skillet, their texture transforms, becoming tender yet slightly crisp. This dish highlights the importance of using seasonal produce, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor while supporting your local community and sustainability.
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based ground meat or mushrooms. Adjust spices to suit your taste!
How to Make This Recipe
Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This prepares the pan for sautéing, creating an inviting aroma that sets the stage for the dish.Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, around 5-7 minutes. The savory aroma fills your kitchen!Add the Brussels Sprouts
Stir in the halved Brussels sprouts and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Their vibrant color and nutty flavor add a fantastic depth to the dish.Taste and Serve
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve warm for a hearty meal that will surely please!
Essential Tools
To prepare this recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife for chopping
- Measuring spoons
These items will help you cook with ease, ensuring everything comes together smoothly.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
For efficient meal prep, you can chop the Brussels sprouts and onions ahead of time. Store each ingredient in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or stovetop until heated through.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs exceptionally well with a simple side salad for added freshness or crusty bread to soak up those delicious flavors. For drinks, consider a light-bodied red wine or a crisp, refreshing sparkling water with lemon. The contrast in textures and flavors enhances the overall dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 14 g
Avoid These Common Pitfalls
Overcooking the Brussels Sprouts
You want them tender but still a bit crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.Meat Not Browning
Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the meat to get that nice caramelization.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Sear the Beef Well: Take your time browning the ground beef; the caramelization adds depth to the flavor.
- Season Each Layer: Don’t forget to season the onions and sprouts separately for maximum flavor.
- Add a Splash of Acid: A squeeze of lemon or a dash of vinegar at the end brightens the dish, balancing the richness.
Recipe Variations to Explore
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor. You can also try adding spices like cumin or chili powder for a Mexican twist, or drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info
This recipe can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply ensure your spices are gluten-free. You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly dish as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep ingredients a day ahead and cook just before serving.What if I don’t have paprika?
You can substitute it with smoked paprika or omit it altogether without major consequences.How do I know when Brussels sprouts are done?
They should be tender and slightly caramelized but not mushy.Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh is preferable for texture and flavor. Thaw and drain them well before cooking.How can I add more flavor?
Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or incorporating a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Ready to enjoy this delicious Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe? We’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and tag us in your photos. For more wonderful recipes, check out our collection here: {internal_link_1}. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
A comforting, hearty dish packed with flavor, featuring ground beef and sautéed Brussels sprouts, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the halved Brussels sprouts and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve warm for a hearty meal.
For meal prep, chop Brussels sprouts and onions ahead of time. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. Adjust spices to your taste.
