If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and fresh, the Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. This salad brings together the warm, savory goodness of seasoned ground beef with the crisp, slightly nutty bite of shaved Brussels sprouts. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying meal that’s quick to whip up but impressive to serve. Whether you’re aiming for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a unique lunch, this salad is versatile and delicious all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white plate filled with golden brown roasted Brussels sprouts, each showing a mix of crispy, slightly charred edges and softer green interiors. The sprouts are evenly spread across the plate, with some pieces looking bright green while others have a toasted caramelized surface. The texture looks crunchy on the outside and tender inside, with small dark spots from roasting. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute essential flavors and textures, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

1 lb ground beef: Choose fresh, lean beef for a rich and flavorful protein base.
4 cups shredded Brussels sprouts: Shaving them thin ensures tender bites and optimal texture.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the Brussels sprouts, adding a lovely fruity richness.
½ cup shredded Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish that perfectly complements the beef and greens.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.

How to Make Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe

Step 1: Brown and Season the Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and browning the ground beef. Make sure to break it up well, cooking until it’s nicely caramelized. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks to deepen the flavor. This savory beef will be the hearty backbone of your salad.

Step 2: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In a separate pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat, then add the shredded Brussels sprouts. Stir them frequently, cooking until they are just tender but still vibrant and lightly crisp. This gentle cooking method brings out their natural sweetness while keeping a pleasant bite.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Add Parmesan

Once both components are ready, combine the warm beef and sautéed Brussels sprouts in one bowl. Toss thoroughly, then sprinkle the shredded Parmesan over the top. The cheese melts slightly, coating each bite with a savory creaminess that elevates the entire salad.

How to Serve Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe

A black cast iron skillet filled with golden-brown roasted Brussels sprouts, some edges slightly charred and crispy. The Brussels sprouts are cut in half, showing bright green interiors with a caramelized outer layer. The skillet rests on a white marbled surface, highlighting the warm tones of the roasted vegetables. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To finish your Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe with a flourish, consider adding a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch. Freshly cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a standalone meal because of its protein and fiber content, but pairing it with a crusty bread or a light soup can turn it into a full, comforting feast. Roasted sweet potatoes or a simple quinoa pilaf also complement its robust flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or atop a bed of mixed greens to add some fresh colors and extra crunch. For a more casual dinner, it’s equally delightful in warm tortillas or pita pockets as a low-carb sandwich alternative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the salad chilled helps maintain the crispness of the Brussels sprouts while the beef stays juicy.

Freezing

While the beef can be frozen separately, freezing the whole salad is not recommended because the Brussels sprouts may lose their texture once thawed. For best results, freeze cooked ground beef packed in a freezer-safe container and prepare fresh sprouts when ready to eat.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the beef in a skillet or microwave and toss it with fresh or quickly sautéed Brussels sprouts to revive the salad’s bright flavors. Adding the Parmesan after reheating helps preserve its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! While the Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe shines with the unique texture and flavor of shaved sprouts, you could experiment with kale or cabbage for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep if you keep the components separate until serving. Store cooked beef and shredded Brussels sprouts individually to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms all make fantastic additions. They add more color and nutrients without overpowering the main flavors.

What dressing goes well with this salad?

The salad is tasty on its own thanks to the Parmesan and beef’s seasoning, but a small drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a lemon vinaigrette can add brightness and balance the richness beautifully.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use fresh, unprocessed ingredients. Always double-check if using any added seasonings or cheese to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprout & Beef Salad Recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy a filling, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Its balance of warm, savory beef and fresh, crisp sprouts makes it a favorite in my kitchen, and I hope you’ll love it just as much. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes one of your go-to dishes!