Easy Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re seeking a quick, nutritious, and delightfully tasty dinner option, this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry is exactly what you need. Packed with savory flavors, crisp Brussels sprouts, and rich ground beef, this stir fry combines simplicity with a perfect balance of textures and colors. Ready in minutes, this dish fits seamlessly into busy weeknight routines while keeping things wholesome and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A speedy meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for when time is tight.
• Nutritious and balanced: Combines protein and veggies for a wholesome, filling plate.
• Easy to customize: Flexible flavors and ingredients make it fit any preference or diet.
• One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup thanks to the convenient stir fry method.
• Family-friendly: Tastes great without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry are straightforward but essential, giving the dish its rich, savory taste and appealing crunch. Each component plays a role—from the hearty ground beef to the fresh, vibrant Brussels sprouts and punchy seasonings.

• Ground beef: Opt for lean or medium ground beef for a juicy, flavorful base.
• Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to balance the fresh veggies.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh minced versions provide vibrant aromatic notes.
• Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty richness that elevates the stir fry’s flavor profile.
• Green onions: Freshly sliced for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color at the end.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional sprinkle for a touch of heat.
• Vegetable or canola oil: For sautéing without overpowering the flavors.

Variations for Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. You can easily switch ingredients or tweak seasonings based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences, making it a versatile dinner winner every time.

• Swap proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a different twist.
• Extra crunch: Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for more texture and color.
• Spice it up: Incorporate fresh chili peppers or chili paste for extra kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Add sweetness: A spoonful of honey or brown sugar can balance bold savory flavors beautifully.

How to Make Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by trimming the stems from your Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half lengthwise. This ensures even cooking and helps retain their subtle sweetness and crunchy texture when stir-fried.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink and beginning to brown for rich flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add freshly minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, infusing the dish with vibrant, savory aromas.

Step 4: Cook Brussels Sprouts

Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a slight char, then stir occasionally until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add Seasonings and Finish

Pour in soy sauce and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides or simply on its own for a satisfying dinner.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook Brussels sprouts in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger give a brighter flavor than pre-minced versions.
• Choose the right beef: Ground beef with about 85% lean content offers a good fat balance for flavor without being greasy.
• High heat for texture: Stir frying on medium-high heat locks in freshness and prevents sogginess.
• Toast sesame oil lightly: Add it near the end to preserve its nutty essence without burning.

How to Serve Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Garnishes

Top with freshly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts to add visual appeal and extra texture bursts.

Side Dishes

Pair with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even simple noodles to soak up all those delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stir fry atop warm lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option or spoon over baked sweet potatoes for a comforting twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, making it a convenient meal for later in the week.

Freezing

This stir fry freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the mixture dries out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts provide the best texture for stir fry, but if you use frozen, thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess water.

Is ground beef the only protein option for this dish?

Not at all! Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu make excellent alternatives that can suit different tastes and dietary needs.

How spicy should I make this stir fry?

It’s completely up to your preference—red pepper flakes or fresh chili can add heat, but you can always omit for a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute traditional soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry?

Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or simple noodles complement this stir fry beautifully, making a complete and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry is a true weeknight champion—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re pressed for time, craving a healthy dish, or just want something comforting and fresh, this recipe delivers. Give it a try soon and watch it become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

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