These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are a tasty mix of spicy and sweet. Juicy beef is cooked with honey and spices, bringing an exciting kick to your meal!
I love serving them over rice or veggies for a quick dinner that feels special. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy that sweet heat? It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works, but don’t be surprised if it’s not as rich in taste. For a healthier twist, turkey or chicken can also be used.
Hot Honey: This ingredient really makes the dish pop. If you can’t find hot honey, mix regular honey with a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to create a sweet-spicy flavor. You can always adjust the amount and control the heat level!
Sweet Potatoes: These add sweetness and texture. If you’re looking for a faster option, try using pre-cut sweet potato cubes. You can also substitute with regular potatoes or even brown rice for a different base.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, but frozen broccoli can be a good substitute as well. Just steam it according to package instructions, and add it when needed.
Mixed Greens: I love using a blend of lettuce and spinach for taste and nutrition. If you want more crunch, try using cabbage or kale. You can even swap in your favorite salad mix!
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Getting sweet potatoes just right can be tricky, but here’s how to make it easy! To achieve that golden, tender texture, start with even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Preheat the oven to the specified 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment for easy clean-up.
- Toss the sweet potatoes in olive oil with salt and pepper; this helps crisp them up as they roast.
- Spread them out in a single layer to avoid steaming, and flip them halfway through for even browning.
Check for doneness by poking with a fork; they should be soft and slightly caramelized. Enjoy that warm sweetness!
How to Make Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., lettuce or spinach)
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- additional hot honey
- sesame seeds
- green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready, and then about 30 minutes cooking and assembling your delicious bowls. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and tender. Don’t forget to flip 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 cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and hot honey. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing everything well so the flavors combine and the beef is coated in the delicious sauce.
3. Steam the Broccoli:
In the last few minutes of cooking the beef, steam the broccoli florets. You can do this in a steamer basket over boiling water or by microwaving them with a little water in a covered dish. Steam for about 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Divide the mixed greens among your serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous amount of the roasted sweet potatoes, the hot honey ground beef, and the steamed broccoli. If you like it a bit sweeter, drizzle with additional hot honey. Feel free to add optional toppings like sour cream, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions to make it even more delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, serve your hot honey ground beef bowls immediately and enjoy the tasty, balanced meal you’ve created. Dig in!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like it hot, add more hot honey or include some crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the ground beef mixture. You can also top your bowl with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and ground beef a day in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, and steam the broccoli fresh before assembling your bowls.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the ground beef and sweet potatoes in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water to the broccoli to help steam it lightly and keep it tender.
