These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are a tasty treat that brings a bit of sweet heat to your meal! Made with juicy ground beef, sweet honey, and your favorite veggies, they are a fun twist on dinner.
I love how colorful and filling these bowls are! It’s a simple one-bowl meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, who can resist a little heat with their dinner? 🍯🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 beef for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, though the flavor will be milder.
Sweet Potatoes: They add a touch of sweetness. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, you can substitute with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a similar effect.
Broccoli: This is a great choice for the nutrient boost. Feel free to switch it up with other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas—whatever you prefer or have on hand.
Hot Honey: If you can’t find hot honey, simply mix regular honey with chili flakes to your taste. This can add a fun kick without needing to buy something new!
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes to Make Them Perfectly Tender?
Roasting sweet potatoes is all about getting that right texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for consistent cooking.
- Dice the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes for uniform roasting.
- Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
This method not only caramelizes the sugars, but also brings out the sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy elements of the dish!
How to Make Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowls:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for flavor)
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets (or any preferred vegetable)
- 2 cups lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (or honey mixed with a pinch of chili flakes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40-45 minutes in total, including 25-30 minutes for roasting the sweet potatoes and about 15 minutes for cooking the beef and vegetables. It’s a quick and hearty meal, perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and nicely caramelized. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, feel free to drain some of it off to keep the dish from being too greasy.
3. Add Seasonings and Broccoli:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets to the skillet along with a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons). Cover the skillet and steam for about 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is vibrant and tender.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to build your bowls! Start with a base of fresh lettuce leaves, then top them with the roasted sweet potatoes and the ground beef mixture. Arrange the steamed broccoli on the side of the bowl to complete the dish.
5. Drizzle with Hot Honey and Serve:
To finish, drizzle hot honey over each bowl for that perfect sweet and spicy kick. Feel free to add any optional toppings like a dollop of Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, or sesame seeds for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that can work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning since it’s milder in flavor. You might want to add an extra pinch of salt and spices for a tastier result.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily make this vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with canned beans (like black beans or chickpeas) or plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed; beans just need to be heated through, while plant-based meats may require similar cooking times as ground beef.
What Should I Do With Leftover Hot Honey Beef Bowls?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Drizzle a bit more hot honey on top when serving for that fresh zing!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! You can customize your bowls by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose, especially if they take longer or shorter to cook than broccoli.
