These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. With juicy beef, a drizzle of hot honey, and fresh veggies, they make for a tasty meal that’s ready in no time!
Honestly, the hot honey takes it to a whole new level! I love topping mine with crunchy veggies. It always turns dinner into a fun little flavor party on my plate. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter and healthier. If you want a lower-fat option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, though the flavor will be milder.
Sweet Potatoes: They’re great for adding sweetness and nutrition. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash are tasty substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Hot Sauce: This is key for giving the dish a kick! If you’re not a fan of heat, try using a milder sauce or even sriracha for flavor without too much spice. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a nice flavor without any heat.
Fresh Greens: I often use spinach, but you can swap it with kale, arugula, or any leafy green you have. Just ensure they’re fresh for the best taste!
Sour Cream: This is optional, but it adds a nice creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want something a bit healthier.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting sweet potatoes well makes a big difference. The right technique can ensure they come out tender and caramelized. Here are some tips:
- Cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Toss them with olive oil and seasonings; this helps them get crispy.
- Spread them out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Check for doneness after 20 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork, and have a nice golden brown color.
How to Make Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups fresh greens (e.g., spinach or lettuce)
- 1 cup broccoli or a mix of other vegetables (like bell peppers)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 45 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and chopping your ingredients, and while the sweet potatoes roast in the oven, you can cook the beef and prepare the veggies. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, take a bowl and toss the diced sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, plus some salt and pepper. Spread them out on a lined baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, grab a large skillet and heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Increase the heat to medium-high, and then add the ground beef to your onion and garlic mixture. Cook it until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Stir in the hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing everything together well.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In a separate pot, steam or sauté your broccoli or any other veggies you like until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You can either boil them lightly or sauté them in a bit of olive oil for extra flavor.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Begin by dividing the cooked ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed vegetables, and fresh greens among serving bowls. You can mix them up however you like for each bowl!
6. Final Touches:
If you want more heat, drizzle a bit of additional hot honey over the top. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Finish by garnishing each bowl with fresh herbs. Serve your delicious Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as poultry usually requires an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You may want to add a bit more seasoning since leaner meats can be less flavorful than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, you can use regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even cauliflower for a lower-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable you choose – for example, cauliflower may need less roasting time while butternut squash will take about the same time as sweet potatoes.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep everything moist. If you want to preserve the texture of the sweet potatoes, consider reheating them separately.
