How to Make Perfect Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and scrumptiously satisfying weeknight dinner, this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry is the answer. This dish perfectly balances the rich, savory flavor of ground beef with the crispy, slightly sweet bite of Brussels sprouts, all brought together by an irresistible stir fry sauce. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry recipe is one you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready from start to finish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
• Flavor-Packed: A tasty blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that satisfy the palate.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different veggies or spice levels to suit your taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: One-pan cooking means less mess and more time to relax after dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry are simple but essential, each lending a specific flavor or texture that turns the dish into a family favorite. From crisp vegetables to perfectly seasoned beef, these components work together to create a balanced and delicious meal.

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a juicy, hearty base without excess fat.
• Brussels sprouts: Fresh and halved for that perfect tender-crisp bite and mild nutty flavor.
• Soy sauce: Adds depth and a salty umami kick to the stir fry sauce.
• Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced for a punch of flavor and aroma.
• Olive oil or sesame oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, to add a subtle heat that wakes up the dish.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, crisp garnish and extra color.
• Honey or brown sugar: A hint of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Salt and pepper: To season perfectly according to your taste.

Variations for Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize it. Whether you want to swap ingredients for dietary needs or experiment with flavors, these variations make adapting this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry a breeze.

• Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Veggie boost: Add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Heat level: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for those who love spice.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
• Nutty flavor: Toss in toasted sesame seeds at the end for added texture and aroma.

How to Make Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by washing and halving the Brussels sprouts. Mince the garlic and ginger finely. Slice the green onions and gather your other ingredients nearby for easy access during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s fully browned and starting to crisp along the edges. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Push the beef to one side of the pan and add a little more oil if needed. Add the Brussels sprouts cut-side down and let them sear without stirring for about 4-5 minutes until they get golden brown, then stir and cook until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Sauce

Mix the garlic and ginger in with the beef and Brussels sprouts. Pour in the soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and sprinkle in red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the ingredients and caramelize slightly.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once everything is cooked through and beautifully combined, turn off the heat and sprinkle green onions over the top. Give it one last gentle toss and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

• High heat is key: Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the Brussels sprouts and beef for maximum flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Stir fry in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the Brussels sprouts.
• Uniform cuts: Halve Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust sweetness: Tweak the amount of honey or brown sugar depending on your personal taste preference.
• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge difference compared to powders.

How to Serve Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Garnishes

Green onions are the classic garnish, adding freshness and a pop of vibrant color. For an extra touch, sprinkle roasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil if you love heat.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even a simple side of quinoa. A light cucumber salad also complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry in a warm bowl topped with a fried egg for a brunch twist. Alternatively, wrap in lettuce leaves for a handheld, fun dinner option that’s both fresh and flavorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for a super tasty next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels dry to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this stir fry?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw and pat them dry first to prevent excess moisture and ensure they sauté properly instead of steaming.

Is ground beef the best choice for this recipe?

Ground beef works great for flavor and texture, but you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based options depending on your preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, which are both gluten-free alternatives without compromising on flavor.

Can I prepare this stir fry in advance?

You can chop vegetables and measure spices ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the stir fry fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

Leave out the red pepper flakes or chili oil. The dish is flavorful enough on its own without any heat.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry is a delightful, nutritious meal that fits seamlessly into busy weeknights. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced dinner without any fuss. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your new go-to for delicious, wholesome meals that your whole family will love.

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