These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy beef mixed with spicy honey sauce makes every bite a sweet and zesty treat.
I love how easy these bowls are to whip up. Just cook, mix, and serve over rice for a marvelous meal that even kids enjoy. Plus, leftovers are the best! 🍚🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Sweet Potatoes: They add sweetness and creaminess. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes or butternut squash. They’ll give a similar texture.
Hot Honey: This is what gives the dish its unique kick! If you can’t find hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes for a homemade version. I love the extra heat that the right amount brings!
Broccoli: Feel free to swap with other veggies like spinach, kale, or even green beans. I often like using a mix to add more color and nutrients!
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes is all about getting that nice caramelization and soft inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps them roast beautifully.
- Cut sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Toss them in olive oil and your spices right before spreading them out on the baking sheet. Give them space; overcrowding will steam them, not roast.
- Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- They’re done when fork-tender and golden brown!
How to Make Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups broccoli or any green vegetable (e.g., spinach or kale)
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or to taste)
- Fresh lettuce leaves for serving
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- sliced jalapeños
- avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 40 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 30 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once everything is well coated, spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
3. Prepare the Broccoli:
In another pot, bring some water to a boil. Blanch or steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
To assemble your bowls, divide the cooked ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, and broccoli among serving bowls. Place fresh lettuce leaves on the side for a refreshing crunch.
5. Drizzle with Hot Honey:
Generously drizzle hot honey over the beef and sweet potatoes. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it—more honey for extra heat!
6. Add Optional Toppings:
Customize your bowls with any optional toppings you like, such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or avocado, to add more flavor and texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls warm and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as ground turkey may take a bit longer to brown. Don’t forget to season well to ensure the dish remains flavorful!
What If I Don’t Have Hot Honey?
No worries! If you don’t have hot honey, you can make your own by mixing regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to taste. Alternatively, add a touch of sriracha or another hot sauce mixed with honey for a similar sweet heat.
Can I Prep the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can dice and season the sweet potatoes a day ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply roast them straight from the fridge; they might need an extra minute or two in the oven.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the bowls in the microwave or on the stove. If the sweet potatoes dry out, add a splash of water to help steam them back to life while reheating!
