Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

A Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This quick and flavorful recipe combines tender ground beef with crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a sweet-and-savory sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The vibrant flavors and textures make this stir-fry a standout meal that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stir-fry can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sweet chili sauce and lime juice creates a deliciously bold flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own! It fits various dietary preferences.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the Brussels sprouts, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less sriracha.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having these items will streamline the cooking process and ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef evenly while providing enough space to sauté the sprouts without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients, ensuring clean cuts and easy transfer to the skillet.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, shredded
• 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
• Juice of lime
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook until browned alongside the sliced green onions, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and optional sriracha. Ensure everything is well combined and cooked through. Once done, transfer the mixture to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Sprouts

Using the same skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add in the shredded Brussels sprouts. Season them with kosher salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.

Step 3: Mix in Sauce

Return the browned beef mixture back into the skillet with the cooked sprouts. Pour in the sweet chili sauce along with fresh lime juice. Stir everything together until heated through.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over your stir-fry before serving. Enjoy it hot on its own or serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

How to Serve Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

Beef and Brussels sprouts stir-fry is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this sweet-and-savory dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the stir-fry over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

With Noodles

• Pair this dish with your favorite noodles, such as udon or rice noodles. The combination adds a delightful texture and makes it more filling.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, serve the stir-fry in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and makes for a fun, hand-held meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to add brightness and freshness to each bite.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats well and stays delicious!

How to Perfect Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

Creating the perfect beef and Brussels sprouts stir-fry requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts will give the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green, firm sprouts when shopping.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches if necessary ensures that the beef browns properly instead of steaming.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha or sweet chili sauce based on your heat preference. Start small and add more as needed.

• Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that desired crispy texture on the sprouts.

• Experiment with Sauces: While sweet chili sauce is fantastic, try adding different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

To complement your beef and Brussels sprouts stir-fry, consider these tasty side dishes that round out the meal perfectly.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A fragrant option that pairs beautifully with any stir-fry, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
2. Garlic Noodles – Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles bring richness and depth to balance out the dish’s sweetness.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side with crisp cucumbers dressed in vinegar makes a perfect contrast to warm stir-fried beef.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a vibrant green element that complements both color and nutrition.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness complements the dish while providing fiber and vitamins.
6. Quinoa – A protein-packed alternative to rice or noodles, quinoa adds nuttiness and works well with Asian-inspired flavors.
7. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a light starter that cleanses the palate before enjoying your main course.
8. Sesame Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans tossed in sesame oil offer crunch and extra flavor alongside your hearty stir-fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can improve your Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the beef – Cooking ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown color, then remove from heat.
• Neglecting seasoning – Forgetting to season your vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously while cooking.
• Not shredding the sprouts evenly – Unevenly shredded Brussels sprouts will cook inconsistently. Make sure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
• Skipping the sauce – Forgetting to add sauce can leave your stir-fry dry. Make sure to mix in the sweet chili sauce and lime juice for moisture.
• Using too high heat – High heat may burn the Brussels sprouts before they cook through. Start with medium heat and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stir-fry to cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Ensure all air is removed from bags before sealing.

Reheating Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry:

Can I use different vegetables in my Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.

What type of beef is best for stir-frying?

Lean ground beef works well, but you can also use sliced flank steak or sirloin if you prefer more texture.

How do I make my Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry spicier?

Add more sriracha or sprinkle some red pepper flakes during cooking to increase the heat level.

Can I meal prep this Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Beef and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry is an easy yet flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or sauces. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect on its own or served over rice!