If you want to take your average weeknight dinner and turn it into something remarkable, Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef will absolutely do the trick. This dish brings together tender beef strips and golden, caramelized Brussels sprouts, all wrapped in a sticky-sweet maple glaze that makes every bite pop with flavor. The best part? It’s ready in under 40 minutes and is as stunning on the table as it is comforting to eat. Once you try it, Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef might just find a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple, flavorful ingredients, you’re on your way to making an unforgettable skillet meal. Each element in this recipe has a purpose: some add depth, others a sweet kiss or an irresistible color, and together they create the magic of Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef.

Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain, this keeps the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender and flavorful from the marinade.
Soy sauce: Acts as a quick marinade, packing every strip of beef with umami richness.
Olive oil (or sesame oil): Adds a savory backbone; sesame oil gives a nutty twist if you want something even more special.
Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved, these little cabbages caramelize beautifully and absorb all that maple magic.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the sprouts and beef with its aromatic warmth.
Pure maple syrup: The star of the glaze, it gives irresistible sweetness and glossy finish to the entire dish.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds tang and balances the sweetness, bringing depth to each bite.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch gives a subtle, lively heat that plays perfectly with the maple.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.
Fresh parsley: Brightens up the final dish with color and freshness—don’t skip the garnish!

How to Make

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Begin by tossing the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce in a small bowl. This not only tenderizes the meat, but it also infuses each piece with savory depth before it ever hits the skillet. While the beef marinates, move on to prepping your Brussels sprouts and other veggies.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat your olive or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You want each piece to get a lovely browned edge without steaming. This should only take 1–2 minutes per side. Once seared, remove the beef to a plate and set aside—it will finish cooking later with the glaze.

Step 3: Caramelize the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet (don’t wash it; those meaty bits add flavor!), scatter the Brussels sprouts cut side down. Let them sizzle undisturbed for 4–5 minutes. This helps them develop that gorgeous caramelized crust. Flip and stir, cooking another few minutes until the sprouts are golden and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Make a little space in the pan and add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant, about one minute. This small step deepens the base of flavor and infuses the vegetables beautifully.

Step 5: Glaze Time!

Now, drizzle in the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let everything bubble up so the maple glaze can thicken and cling to the sprouts, turning them glossy and so inviting. The aroma is out-of-this-world!

Step 6: Finish with the Beef

Return your seared beef to the skillet, tossing everything together so the meat gets its fair share of that sticky glaze. Let it all warm through for a minute or two—just enough for the flavors to meld without overcooking the beef.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Give your Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef a final taste, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Shower the whole skillet with fresh chopped parsley. Now you’re ready to serve up something truly special!

How to Serve

Garnishes

The finishing touch is a generous scattering of chopped fresh parsley for brightness and color. If you love a little crunch, toasted pecans or walnuts add texture and an extra nutty layer that works so well with the maple glaze.

Side Dishes

This main dish shines atop fluffy white rice, a mound of creamy mashed potatoes, or even nutty quinoa. Each soaks up those glossy pan juices and makes Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef a complete, satisfying meal. You could also pair it with crusty bread to swipe up all that delectable sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun entertaining twist, pile everything onto a big platter family-style, so guests can serve themselves. Or try serving scoops of Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef over individual grain bowls for a modern, bistro-inspired feel. The vibrant colors look stunning in shallow white bowls, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld and get even richer overnight, making lunch the next day a real treat.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef, simply cool the dish completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to revisit those flavors.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the glaze looks too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, but stir partway through for even warming. Be careful not to overcook or you’ll lose some tenderness in the beef.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts really do give the best caramelization and texture in Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen sprouts. Just thaw them well, dry thoroughly, and expect a slightly softer final bite.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Sirloin and flank steak are both excellent choices since they cook quickly and remain tender when sliced thinly against the grain. Avoid tougher cuts unless they’re marinated longer for tenderness.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

If you can’t get pure maple syrup, honey makes a good substitute. It will be a bit different in flavor, but still delicious and glossy. Avoid pancake syrup, which contains additives that can alter the taste of Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes add just a gentle background warmth—nothing overwhelming. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can leave them out altogether or add to taste at the end.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the beef for firm tofu cubes or even chickpeas. Use the same marinade and cook in the same steps for a plant-based Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef experience everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Jazz up your dinner table with the unforgettable flavors and textures in Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Beef. This is the kind of dish that surprises you with how quickly it comes together and delights everyone at the table. Give it a try and discover just how delicious Brussels sprouts and beef can be when they’re coated with a shimmering maple glaze!