Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight routine with something bold, fast, and incredibly satisfying, this Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe is exactly what you need.
Inspired by that deeply caramelized, glossy look you get when ground beef and Brussels sprouts cook together in a sweet chili sauce, this dish delivers big flavor in just 30 minutes. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting—without overwhelming the whole family.
What I love most about this Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts dinner is how practical it is. One pan, simple ingredients, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep. Serve it over rice or quinoa, and you’ve got a wholesome family dinner that feels anything but boring.
Why This Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Is a Hit
This recipe earns a regular spot on the menu because it’s:
- Ready in 30 minutes
- One-pan meal with easy cleanup
- Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy
- Gluten-free, naturally
- Great for meal prep & leftovers
It’s fast comfort food with a bold twist.
Ingredients for Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Here’s what you’ll need to build those layers of flavor:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
- Honey + sriracha if sweet chili sauce isn’t available
- Coconut aminos for soy-free
- Broccoli instead of Brussels sprouts
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and slightly crispy.
Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, add Brussels sprouts cut-side down.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, until golden brown and tender. Stir occasionally.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Build the Sweet Chili Sauce
Lower heat to medium.
Add sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Bring Everything Together
Return ground beef to the skillet and toss everything together.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, until sauce thickens slightly and coats everything beautifully.
Garnish and serve hot.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Keep things exciting with these easy twists:
🌶 Extra Spicy Version
Add chili oil or extra red pepper flakes.
🍚 Asian-Inspired Bowl
Serve over jasmine rice with a fried egg on top.
🥬 Veggie-Heavy Version
Add shredded cabbage or snap peas.
🧄 Garlic Lovers
Double the garlic for extra punch.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect One-Pan Results
- Let beef brown properly for deeper flavor
- Cook Brussels sprouts cut-side down for caramelization
- Add sauce last to prevent burning
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—use a wide skillet
These small steps make the dish irresistible.
What to Serve with Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice
- Noodles or rice vermicelli
- Simple cucumber salad
Perfect for dinner or meal prep lunches.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days
- Reheat: Skillet or microwave
- Freezer: Freeze cooked portions up to 2 months
FAQ – Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts
Is this recipe spicy?
Mild as written—easy to adjust.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Are Brussels sprouts bitter?
Not when caramelized—they become sweet and nutty.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweet chili flavor balances everything nicely.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~510 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
(Values vary depending on beef and sauce used.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Sweet & Savory Weeknight Win 🌶️🥩
This Sweet Chili Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts recipe proves that quick dinners can still be exciting, wholesome, and packed with flavor. One pan, 30 minutes, and a bold sweet-savory sauce—this is weeknight cooking done right.
If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me how you served it!
For safe handling and storage of ground beef, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳