Easy Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Recipe

easy-ground-beef-brussels-sprouts

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort and nutrition to the table, you’ll adore this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this combination delivers rich flavors and wholesome goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for meal prep or impressing guests. After all, nothing beats the satisfaction of a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts might sound like an unlikely pair, but trust me, they’re a match made in culinary heaven. The savory depth of ground beef balances the earthy, slightly sweet notes of roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a harmony of textures and tastes. This dish matters because it’s a fantastic way to pack protein and veggies into one satisfying meal. It’s also quick to prepare, making it ideal for anyone juggling a hectic schedule. At brekcakes.com, we celebrate recipes that are both approachable and exceptional, and this one fits perfectly. If you love easy yet impressive meals, you’ll also enjoy our one-pan wonders or our guide to quick dinner ideas.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of Sunday dinners with my family. My dad would always request something hearty, while my mom insisted on getting our greens in. This dish became our compromise—a flavorful, balanced meal that pleased everyone. Even now, every time I make it, I feel that same warmth and togetherness. It’s more than just food; it’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can bring people closer.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

Ground beef and Brussels sprouts pack a powerful nutritional punch. First, ground beef delivers high-quality protein, which helps build muscle and keeps you full longer. Additionally, it provides iron, a key nutrient for energy and oxygen transport in your body. Meanwhile, Brussels sprouts bring fiber to the table, supporting digestion and gut health.

Beyond protein and fiber, this combo offers essential vitamins. For example, Brussels sprouts supply vitamin C, boosting immunity and skin health. At the same time, ground beef contains B vitamins, which aid metabolism and brain function. Together, they create a balanced meal that fuels your body efficiently.

Moreover, ground beef and Brussels sprouts work well for heart health when prepared mindfully. Lean ground beef reduces saturated fat intake, while Brussels sprouts contribute antioxidants that fight inflammation. Ultimately, this pairing proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

Ground beef and Brussels sprouts fit seamlessly into a balanced diet. If you’re focused on high-protein meals, this combo helps meet your goals without relying on processed options. For gluten-free eaters, it’s a naturally safe choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrients.

Planning meals ahead? Try prepping ground beef and Brussels sprouts for quick weeknight dinners. Pair them with healthy meal prep ideas to stay on track. If you’re watching your heart health, opt for lean ground beef and roast the Brussels sprouts with olive oil for a lighter twist.

Looking for more ways to enjoy these ingredients? Check out our balanced dinner recipes for inspiration. Whether you’re fueling workouts or simply eating well, ground beef and Brussels sprouts make it easy to nourish your body every day.

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Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts


  • Author:     Chef Mia



Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and healthy dish combining savory ground beef with roasted Brussels sprouts.

Ingredients


Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
  2. In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  3. Stir in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Combine with roasted Brussels sprouts and serve warm.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.



s-dish">How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and browning the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it sizzles. Meanwhile, trim the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half for even cooking. Once the beef is done, transfer it to a plate and drain any excess grease, but leave a bit to sauté the sprouts for extra flavor. Toss the Brussels sprouts into the same skillet, cut side down, and let them caramelize for a few minutes until golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, then add a splash of broth or water to help them soften. Return the ground beef to the skillet and mix everything together, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for depth. For a time-saving twist, use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts or swap in frozen ones—just thaw and pat them dry first. If you’re short on time, prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

I used to overcrowd the skillet with Brussels sprouts, which steamed them instead of giving them that crispy edge I love. Now I cook them in batches or use a wider pan for better browning. Another blunder? Underseasoning the ground beef. It’s easy to forget that lean beef needs a little extra flavor boost, so I always taste and adjust before adding the sprouts. If you’re new to cooking with Brussels sprouts, check out my guide on how to cook Brussels sprouts perfectly every time for more tips. And if you’ve ever wondered why your ground beef turns out dry, my post on keeping ground beef juicy and flavorful covers simple fixes. Trust me, a few small tweaks make all the difference!

n-and-variations">Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts might sound like a modern weeknight dinner, but its roots stretch back to hearty European home cooking. In Belgium, where Brussels sprouts got their name, locals often pair the veggie with rich meats like sausage or bacon. Meanwhile, in the American Midwest, families have long combined ground beef with whatever veggies they had on hand, creating comforting one-pan meals. My grandma used to toss Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts with a splash of Worcestershire sauce, turning it into a savory skillet dish that warmed us up after snowy evenings.

Across the globe, variations pop up depending on local flavors. In Korea, you might find Brussels sprouts stir-fried with ground pork and gochujang, while Italian cooks could roast them with ground beef, garlic, and a shower of Parmesan. Some families roast the sprouts for crunch, others braise them for tenderness, but the magic always happens when those caramelized edges meet the savory depth of ground beef. Whether it’s a German-inspired version with caraway or a Tex-Mex twist with cumin, this combo adapts beautifully to any pantry.

How it fits in today’s cooking

Today, Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts shines as a versatile hero for busy cooks. It’s a natural fit for meal prep routines, since it reheats beautifully and packs in protein and veggies. During fall and winter, it becomes a seasonal staple, especially when paired with sweet potatoes or cranberries for holiday tables. Modern twists, like adding sriracha mayo or swapping beef for turkey, keep it fresh for health-conscious eaters.

What makes it timeless?

Its simplicity. You can whip it up in 30 minutes, yet it feels hearty enough for Sunday supper. Some cooks even sneak it into comfort food mashups, like stuffing it into bell peppers or topping flatbreads. Whether you’re craving nostalgia or need a quick fridge clean-out meal, Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts bridges the gap between tradition and today’s kitchen rhythms.

Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts create a hearty, savory dish with layers of contrasting textures. The beef browns into juicy, tender crumbles, while the Brussels sprouts caramelize into crispy-edged, slightly sweet bites. Aromatic garlic and onions deepen the umami richness, and a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire adds a tangy depth. Each forkful balances the meaty chew of ground beef with the satisfying crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts—making it irresistibly comforting. Plus, the earthy aroma of roasted sprouts mingling with sizzling beef will have everyone gathering around the kitchen.

Boosting the flavor

For extra flair, try swapping ground beef with Italian sausage or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to amplify the smokiness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze brightens the dish with a touch of acidity, while toasted pine nuts add buttery crunch. Love heat? Toss in red pepper flakes or serve with a side of creamy avocado dressing for cooling contrast. Experimenting with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also elevates the flavors without overpowering the star ingredients.

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Tips for Success

Best practices for results

Always brown the ground beef first to develop rich flavor before mixing it with Brussels sprouts. Meanwhile, trim the sprouts evenly so they cook at the same rate. For extra crispiness, roast the Brussels sprouts at 425°F until their edges turn golden. Additionally, season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of both the ground beef and Brussels sprouts. Finally, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Mistakes to avoid

Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking ground beef, as this steams the meat instead of browning it. Instead, cook in batches if needed. Similarly, don’t skip trimming the Brussels sprouts, as tough stems can make them chewy. For more on perfecting vegetable prep, check out our guide to chopping vegetables efficiently. Also, resist stirring the sprouts too often while roasting—this prevents them from caramelizing properly. If you’re unsure about seasoning, our seasoning balance tips can help you adjust flavors like a pro.

g-suggestions">Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts shine when you plate them with intention. For a rustic look, serve the dish family-style in a large skillet or a warm ceramic bowl. Alternatively, layer the savory ground beef over a bed of roasted Brussels Sprouts for an elegant dinner presentation. Meanwhile, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan adds a pop of color and flavor. This hearty combo works beautifully for weeknight dinners, yet it also fits right in at holiday gatherings or potlucks. If you want extra texture, top it with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions just before serving.

What goes well with it

Pair Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, balanced meal. The buttery potatoes soften the dish’s bold flavors, making every bite satisfying. Alternatively, try a tangy yogurt sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to brighten the richness of the beef. For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a crisp apple cider complements the savory notes perfectly. If you’re craving more veggie-forward sides, consider serving it with a light garlic roasted asparagus or a refreshing cucumber tomato salad. These pairings keep the meal vibrant and well-rounded.

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How do you cook ground beef and Brussels sprouts together?

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then add halved Brussels sprouts and cook until tender. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper for a simple, flavorful dish. Ground beef and Brussels sprouts pair well for a quick weeknight meal.

Are ground beef and Brussels sprouts healthy?

Yes, ground beef provides protein and iron, while Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber and vitamins. Opt for lean ground beef and roast the sprouts to keep the dish nutritious. Together, they make a balanced meal.

What spices go well with ground beef and Brussels sprouts?

Garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme enhance the flavors of ground beef and Brussels sprouts. For a kick, add red pepper flakes or cumin. These spices create a savory, well-seasoned dish.

rank-math-faq-item"> Can you make a casserole with ground beef and Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Layer cooked ground beef and Brussels sprouts with cheese or a creamy sauce, then bake until bubbly. This hearty casserole combines the richness of beef with the earthy taste of sprouts.

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