These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are full of flavor and a little kick! Savory ground beef is mixed with a sweet and spicy honey sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Who doesn’t love a one-bowl meal? It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights. I like to top mine with fresh veggies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra crunch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here, offering a rich flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Plant-based alternatives like lentils or tofu work well too for a vegetarian version.
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness and are nutritious. If you need a substitute, try regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different texture and flavor.
Hot Honey: The sweet spice from hot honey really elevates the dish. If you can’t find it, mix honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes at home—adjust the spice level to your taste!
Broccoli: This veggie is great for color and crunch. Feel free to swap it with green beans, spinach, or any favorite greens you have on hand.
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes can bring out their natural sweetness, so it’s important to do it well. Start by ensuring they are cut into uniform pieces to help them cook evenly. A hot oven (425°F) makes them crisp up nicely.
- Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple flavor boost.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet for better roasting.
- Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. They should be tender when pierced with a fork—if you want them crispier, leave them a few minutes longer!
How to Make Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced
- 2 cups broccoli or any green vegetable, steamed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade: mix honey with a dash of cayenne or chili flakes)
- 2 cups lettuce leaves (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- avocado slices
- green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking, followed by about 25-30 minutes roasting the sweet potatoes while you cook the beef and steam the veggies. It’s a simple and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potato with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and slightly crispy on the outside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once the beef starts browning, season it with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep cooking until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes.
3. Add Hot Honey and Steam the Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked, drizzle the hot honey over it and stir everything together, allowing it to heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes. Meanwhile, steam your broccoli (or chosen green vegetable) until it’s bright green and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! In serving bowls, create a bed of lettuce leaves. Then, layer on the roasted sweet potatoes, generous amounts of the hot honey ground beef, and the steamed greens. If you have any hot honey left, drizzle some on top for extra flavor. You can also add sour cream, avocado slices, or green onions as optional toppings.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your delicious hot honey ground beef bowls! They are tasty, healthy, and sure to satisfy your hunger!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may be a bit drier, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil when cooking it to maintain moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, try adding more hot honey or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while it cooks. You can also top the bowls with sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy touch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm everything in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in any vegetables you like or have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and cooked through!
