Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of savory beef with the earthy, slightly nutty taste of Brussels sprouts. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I can assure you that this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of ground beef and Brussels sprouts has roots in various culinary traditions, showcasing how versatile these ingredients can be. People love this dish for its hearty texture and the way it brings comfort to the table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
What truly sets Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts apart is its convenience; it comes together in just one pan, allowing for easy cleanup while still delivering a meal that feels special. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among both adults and children alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick and nutritious dinner, Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for a tangy finish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
1. Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Trim the ends of each sprout and cut them in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly and allows for better caramelization.
3. Set the prepared Brussels sprouts aside while you get the ground beef ready.
Cooking the Ground Beef
4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
7. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
8. Season the beef with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Incorporating the Brussels Sprouts
9. Once the ground beef is fully cooked, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Stir well to combine the beef and sprouts.
10. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and soy sauce if you’re using it. This will help steam the Brussels sprouts and infuse them with flavor.
11. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the Brussels sprouts to soften while absorbing the flavors from the beef and broth.
Finishing Touches
12. After 5-7 minutes, remove the lid and check the Brussels sprouts. They should be tender but still have a slight crunch. If they need more time, cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
13. Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked to your liking, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity and flavor. Stir everything together to ensure the vinegar is evenly distributed.
14. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serving the Dish
15. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a minute. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
16. Serve the ground beef and Brussels sprouts mixture hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
17. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or even a simple green salad.
Storage and Reheating
18. If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
19. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Enjoy this hearty and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!
Conclusion:
In summary, this Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that is both hearty and nutritious. The combination of savory ground beef and the slightly nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts creates a delightful harmony that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
For serving suggestions, I love pairing this dish with a side of fluffy quinoa or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some spices like smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even make it vegetarian by using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
I encourage you to give this Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, and I’m sure your friends and family will appreciate the deliciousness you bring to the table. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Your Dinner Table
This hearty dish features ground beef and Brussels sprouts, creating a satisfying and nutritious weeknight meal. It's easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. Enjoy it hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and pair it with rice or a green salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for a tangy finish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends and cut them in half lengthwise. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Season the beef with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water) and soy sauce if using. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes to steam the Brussels sprouts.
- After 5-7 minutes, check the Brussels sprouts for tenderness. If needed, cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a minute before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using low-sodium beef broth.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
