Easy Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner, this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry is exactly what you need. Packed with bold, savory flavors and a satisfying texture, this dish comes together swiftly, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something hearty but healthy. Featuring tender ground beef and crisp Brussels sprouts, it’s a one-pan meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for hectic schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Bold Flavors: A delicious combination of savory ground beef and caramelized Brussels sprouts with a touch of soy and garlic.
• Nutritious Ingredients: High in protein and packed with vitamins from fresh Brussels sprouts.
• Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan, cutting down on kitchen mess and cooking stress.
• Versatile Meal: Easy to customize for different tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to make this Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry taste extraordinary — each playing a key role to balance texture, flavor, and nutrition.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the perfect hearty base without excess fat.
• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, halved Brussels sprouts add crunch and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and ginger provide aromatic warmth and a zingy depth.
• Soy Sauce: Adds that essential umami boost and a touch of saltiness.
• Sesame Oil: For toasty, nutty aroma and richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but perfect for a subtle kick.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced for freshness and color at the end.
• Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Just a hint to balance savory with sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.

Variations for Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

This dish is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to personalize it based on what you have in your kitchen or dietary needs — making it a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a different protein option.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots to boost color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for those who love heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
• Low Carb Kick: Skip the sugar for a cleaner, keto-friendly version.

How to Make Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by trimming and halving fresh Brussels sprouts, mincing garlic and ginger, and slicing green onions. Having all your ingredients ready makes cooking fast and smooth.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Cook the Brussels Sprouts

Add Brussels sprouts to the pan with the beef, stirring frequently. Let them cook until bright green and starting to brown on the edges, about 6-8 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and softness.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Sauce

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of coconut or brown sugar. Toss everything well to coat evenly and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Sprinkle red pepper flakes to your taste and garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Give it one last toss, then plate it up and enjoy.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and less bitter.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to allow proper browning and avoid steaming.
• Use High Heat: Stir fry over medium-high heat for quick, even cooking and caramelization.
• Customize Sauces: Adjust soy sauce and sugar levels to suit your taste buds.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the stir fry sit for a minute off heat helps flavors settle beautifully.

How to Serve Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry

Garnishes

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, freshly chopped cilantro, or extra green onions on top for added texture and a pop of freshness that perfectly complements the stir fry.

Side Dishes

Pair with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or alongside simple noodles to soak up the savory sauce and create a full meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir fry in lettuce wraps or inside warm pita pockets, transforming it into a handheld delight perfect for casual dinners or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stir fry to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Brussels sprouts maintain their texture well when reheated gently.

Freezing

This Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry can be frozen for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive moisture. Microwave reheating works well too but may soften the sprouts more.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this stir fry?

Yes, you can, but frozen sprouts tend to release more moisture and may become softer, so cook them a bit longer to evaporate extra water and achieve good texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

By default, it contains soy sauce which usually has gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I make this stir fry vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative, and adjust seasonings to taste.

What can I substitute for sesame oil if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have sesame oil, use a light vegetable oil and add a small drizzle of toasted sesame seeds for that nutty flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spicy but easily customizable by controlling or omitting the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef & Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry has quickly become a favorite for its perfect combination of speed, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, it’s a reliable recipe to keep in your rotation. Dive into this vibrant dish and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels homemade and wholesome every single time.

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