If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and comes together in no time, you’re going to love this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe. It’s a vibrant, colorful meal that perfectly balances the hearty richness of ground beef with the bright, slightly crispy texture of shredded Brussels sprouts. The sweet chili sauce adds just the right amount of kick and sweetness, while a squeeze of fresh lime brightens the whole dish. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also full of wholesome ingredients that satisfy any craving for a savory, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making a delicious stir-fry that’s packed with texture and flavor. Each item plays a crucial role: from the aromatic green onions to the tangy lime juice, everything works together to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Choose lean for a healthier dish that still packs plenty of protein and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients to life.
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions: Offers a mild onion flavor and a burst of fresh green color.
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness without being too salty.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): For those who appreciate a gentle kick of heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Perfect for sautéing with a high smoke point and mild flavor.
- 1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts: The star veggie, shredded for quick cooking and delicious caramelization.
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings sweet, spicy, and tangy notes that tie the dish together beautifully.
- 1/2 of a lime, juiced: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness for a fresh finish.
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely nutty crunch and pretty presentation.
How to Make Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add your lean ground beef. Use a spatula to crumble it into small pieces. Once it starts browning, toss in the thinly sliced green onions. Season everything with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, sriracha if you’re using it, and the low sodium soy sauce. Stir often and cook until the beef is fully browned and aromatic. Then, remove the beef mixture from the skillet to a plate so you can cook the Brussels sprouts separately.
Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
Pour the avocado oil into the same skillet and heat over medium-high. Add your shredded Brussels sprouts and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté, stirring frequently, until they soften and caramelize, developing golden-brown edges that add incredible flavor and texture. This step creates a perfect contrast to the savory beef.
Step 3: Combine Everything with Sweet Chili and Lime
Return the cooked ground beef and green onion mixture back into the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and squeeze in the juice of half a lime. Toss everything together, making sure every bit is coated in that glossy, flavorful sauce. Heat it through for just a minute or two, then remove from heat. The aroma at this stage is inviting and makes it clear just how tasty this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe truly is.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe
Garnishes
Top your stir-fry with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. If you want a pop of color and a little extra zing, fresh chopped cilantro or thinly sliced red chilies make wonderful additions. These simple touches elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, turning a weekday dinner into something special.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly. For a lower-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a simple mixed green salad dressed with lime and olive oil. The versatility of the dish means you can customize the sides to suit your meal preferences.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry inside lettuce cups for a handheld delight. You can also spoon the mixture over warm quinoa or noodles to change things up. For entertaining, arrange it on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and sesame seeds, making it a colorful centerpiece that’s as inviting to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or quick reheat dinners during your busy week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish another time, it freezes nicely too. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It should be eaten within 2 months for the best texture and flavor after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. You can also microwave leftovers, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture and prevent the Brussels sprouts from drying out. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice after reheating to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used in this stir-fry. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, and you might want to adjust seasonings accordingly to complement the flavor of the meat you choose.
What if I don’t like Brussels sprouts?
You can swap Brussels sprouts for other vegetables like shredded cabbage, snap peas, or even broccoli florets. They will soak up the sweet chili and lime sauce nicely and provide a similar crunchy texture.
Is the sweet chili sauce very spicy?
Sweet chili sauce typically has a mild to medium spice level with a balanced sweetness. If you prefer less heat, choose a milder version or reduce the quantity. Adding sriracha is optional and allows you to customize the spice to your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Cook it similarly, and the sweet chili and lime flavors will still make this dish irresistible.
What is the best way to shred Brussels sprouts?
The easiest way is to use a food processor with a shredding blade or carefully slice them very thinly with a sharp knife. Shredding helps the Brussels sprouts cook faster and caramelize beautifully in the skillet.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe, it’s hard not to make it again and again. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and packed with flavors that sing in every bite. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal that impresses without fuss, this recipe is a winner. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest stir-fries you can easily whip up at home.
Print
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili and Lime Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Lean ground beef is sautéed with green onions and seasoned with soy sauce, garlic powder, and a touch of sriracha for a mild kick. Tender, caramelized shredded Brussels sprouts are then combined with the beef and coated in a sweet chili and lime sauce, offering a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors. Garnished with sesame seeds and served over rice, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in the sliced green onions and season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, sriracha (if using), and low sodium soy sauce. Cook until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the same skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the shredded Brussels sprouts, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and lime juice. Stir everything together well to evenly coat the beef and sprouts in the sauce and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top if using. Serve the dish hot over cooked rice or your preferred side dish for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of sriracha or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- To make it gluten free, ensure the soy sauce is tamari or another gluten-free variety.
- Shredded Brussels sprouts cook faster than halved ones and caramelize better in a skillet.
- This recipe can be doubled for meal prep or larger families.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
