Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is the kind of recipe you turn to when you want something hearty, wholesome, and deeply flavorful—without spending your whole evening in the kitchen. The rich, savory ground beef blends beautifully with the earthy sweetness of caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced and satisfying dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. I once added a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of smoked paprika, and the extra umami paired incredibly well with the sprouts’ natural sweetness. This dish shines as a low-carb main course, a cozy meal-prep option, or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and delicious on its own or served over rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice. Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing single-serve portions, this recipe delivers dependable flavor and comforting warmth every time.
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts: A Savory, Satisfying One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A quick, hearty skillet meal made with seasoned ground beef, caramelized Brussels sprouts, onions, and garlic—easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add Brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook 4–6 minutes until browned. Stir and cook another 3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add remaining oil and diced onion. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Stir in minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and soy sauce or Worcestershire.
- Once beef is browned, return Brussels sprouts to the skillet.
- Toss everything together and cook 2–3 more minutes to blend flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for brightness.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Top with shredded parmesan for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Ground beef adds richness, protein, and a savory backbone to the dish. An 85/15 blend provides the best balance of tenderness and flavor.
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts offer earthy sweetness and a hearty texture. When sautéed, they caramelize beautifully and complement the beef.
Olive oil or butter
Used to sauté the vegetables and help them brown, adding richness and depth.
Onion
Adds aromatic sweetness and blends seamlessly into the beef mixture.
Garlic
Garlic brings savory warmth and rounds out the flavor profile, enhancing both beef and vegetables.
Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that balance the dish and highlight all the natural flavors.
Paprika
Adds gentle warmth and color. Smoked paprika gives an optional smoky undertone.
Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Adds umami and deeper savory notes, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Red pepper flakes (optional)
A pinch of heat brings balance and brightens the beef’s richness.
Directions
Begin by trimming the Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half or quarters, depending on size. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Brussels sprouts cut-side down and cook until they begin to caramelize and turn golden brown. Stir occasionally and continue cooking until they are tender.
Push the sprouts to the outer edges of the skillet and add the ground beef to the center. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Once the beef is fully cooked, stir the Brussels sprouts back into the center of the skillet. Add optional soy sauce or Worcestershire if using, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning as needed. Allow everything to cook together for two to three minutes so flavors can meld.
Serve hot as a standalone dish or pair with your favorite grain or starch.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking requires 15–20 minutes. Total estimated time: approximately 25–30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or a small pat of butter before reheating. This dish also freezes well for up to two months; thaw before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Asian-Inspired Beef and Sprouts
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Cheesy Brussels Beef Skillet
Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella and let it melt for a creamy twist.
Italian Style
Add Italian seasoning, crushed tomatoes, and a bit of Parmesan cheese.
Spicy Beef and Sprouts
Use red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of chili paste for heat.
Low-Carb Keto Variation
Use extra butter and season generously for richness without added carbs.
Balsamic Glazed Version
Add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar during the final minutes of cooking.
Mushroom and Beef Skillet
Add sliced mushrooms for earthiness and additional texture.
Bacon-Enhanced Blend
Cook chopped bacon first and use the rendered fat to sauté the sprouts.
Creamy Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a decadent finish.
Sweet Potato Add-In
Fold in roasted sweet potato cubes for a heartier, sweet-savory version.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first for better browning.
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Absolutely—turkey works well with the same seasonings.
Do I need to boil the Brussels sprouts first?
No, sautéing them directly gives better flavor and texture.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella taste great melted on top.
How do I keep the sprouts from getting mushy?
Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats well and works great for meal prep.
Can I use shredded Brussels sprouts?
Yes, they cook faster and still taste delicious.
Should I drain the beef?
If your beef is higher in fat, drain excess after browning.
Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
What can I serve with this?
Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice all pair well.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful, satisfying one-pan dish that combines savory beef with caramelized sprouts for an easy, comforting weeknight meal. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and countless variation options, this recipe is versatile enough for everyday cooking yet delicious enough to serve guests. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides, each bite offers warmth, balance, and hearty goodness—making it a dependable recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
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