Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet

The perfect weeknight dinner doesn’t need to be complicated, and this Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet proves it. With minimal ingredients and a one-pan cooking method, it delivers big flavors without the mess. Tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with seasoned ground beef, all brought together with umami-rich sauces and a touch of balsamic brightness.

Whether you’re looking to eat more vegetables, reduce carbs, or just keep dinner simple and hearty, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for meal prep, reheats like a dream, and can easily be customized with other veggies or spices. Healthy, quick, and satisfying this skillet recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 yellow onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add Brussels sprouts cut-side down, cook 6–8 minutes until golden and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add ground beef and onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion softened, about 6 minutes.

4. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

5. Return Brussels sprouts to the skillet and mix with the beef.

6. Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir and cook 2–3 more minutes to blend flavors.

7. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet is a wholesome and savory one-pan recipe that’s incredibly easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying. This dish delivers a balanced combination of lean protein, nutritious vegetables, and bold seasoning, making it a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeknights or health-conscious meal preppers. Packed with flavor from caramelized Brussels sprouts, seasoned ground beef, and a blend of umami-rich sauces like soy and Worcestershire, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the top reasons people fall in love with this skillet dish is its perfect harmony of convenience and flavor. It’s fast to prepare, uses minimal kitchen tools, and requires ingredients that are likely already in your fridge or pantry. Each bite is full of deep, rich flavors thanks to a balance of garlic, balsamic vinegar, and savory beef that appeal to everyone from picky eaters to seasoned foodies.

Additionally, it’s a low-carb, high-protein option that caters to various dietary needs. Whether you’re on a ketogenic diet, following a gluten-free plan, or just trying to eat cleaner, this skillet fits the bill.

The Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts and Ground Beef

Brussels sprouts are often underrated, but they’re one of the healthiest vegetables around. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals, they’re excellent for boosting immunity, improving digestion, and supporting bone health. When they’re sautéed to golden perfection, they lose any bitterness and gain a crispy, caramelized texture that’s irresistible.

Ground beef, particularly lean varieties, provides a strong dose of high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. It supports muscle repair, cognitive function, and energy production. When paired with Brussels sprouts, you get a meal that’s not only delicious but nutritionally well-rounded.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Schedules

This recipe is designed with real life in mind. It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish and stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge. That makes it an ideal meal prep choice for work lunches or quick reheat-and-eat dinners throughout the week.

You can cook a double batch, portion it out into containers, and have healthy meals on hand without the need for constant cooking. It also freezes well, making it a smart choice for bulk prep.

Customizations and Variations

What makes this skillet truly versatile is how easily it can be adapted. Don’t have Brussels sprouts on hand? Try broccoli florets, green beans, or chopped kale. Want a different protein? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work beautifully.

To adjust the flavor profile, you can experiment with spices like cumin, curry powder, or chili flakes. For added texture, consider throwing in roasted nuts or seeds just before serving. You could also make it heartier by adding cooked quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to the skillet.

For a creamier twist, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream at the end. And if you want a cheesy finish, a sprinkle of parmesan or shredded cheddar adds an indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan – Brussels sprouts need space to brown and caramelize. If you overcrowd the skillet, they’ll steam instead of sear.
2. Using Too Much Liquid – Stick to the recipe amounts for sauces. Excess liquid can turn the dish mushy and dilute the flavors.
3. Not Seasoning Enough – This recipe relies on a combination of sauces and seasoning. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
4. Skipping the Vinegar – Balsamic vinegar adds acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the beef. Don’t skip it it’s the secret ingredient that elevates the whole dish.

What to Serve With This Dish

Although this skillet meal is a complete entrée on its own, you can round out the plate with a variety of sides. Try serving it over:

• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Mashed potatoes for a comforting, filling dinner
• Steamed white or brown rice to soak up the savory juices
• Egg noodles or whole-grain pasta for a twist on classic beef dishes

A simple green salad or side of roasted carrots also complements the rich, umami-packed flavor of the skillet.

Pairing Ideas

For beverages, a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a bold red like Zinfandel pairs well with the meat and earthy Brussels sprouts. If you’re avoiding alcohol, sparkling water with lemon or an unsweetened iced green tea offers a refreshing contrast.

You can also add a fried or poached egg on top for brunch vibes or serve it alongside a rustic slice of sourdough bread to scoop up all the savory goodness.

Make It a Family Favorite

This dish can easily become a weeknight staple. Kids who are usually hesitant to eat Brussels sprouts may be surprised by how much they enjoy them when caramelized and mixed with flavorful ground beef. If they need extra encouragement, serve it with a side of cheesy potatoes or melt cheese over the top in the final minutes of cooking.

It’s also an ideal recipe to teach beginner cooks. Because it’s made in one pan, requires only a few basic techniques, and uses affordable ingredients, it’s accessible even for those just starting out in the kitchen.

Why It Stands Out

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple dish done right. This skillet isn’t trying to be fancy it’s honest food made with whole ingredients and a little love. The combination of textures (crisp-tender Brussels, juicy beef) and the layered flavors (garlic, vinegar, spice) create a restaurant-quality dish with a homemade soul.

It’s also a great way to reintroduce Brussels sprouts to anyone who’s written them off. When prepared properly, they transform from bland or bitter to nutty, crisp, and full of flavor.

Conclusion

The Ground Beef and Brussels Sprouts Skillet is more than just a quick meal it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and wholesome ingredients. From its ease of preparation to its impressive nutritional benefits and customizable elements, it offers everything a home cook could want. Whether you’re eating clean, feeding a family, or just need something satisfying after a long day, this dish fits the bill.

It brings together everything we love about weeknight cooking: convenience, nourishment, bold flavors, and comfort. Plus, it’s proof that Brussels sprouts, when given the right treatment, can be the star of your dinner table. Add this recipe to your regular rotation and enjoy a new favorite that’s as healthy as it is hearty.