These Easy Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls bring together sweet and spicy flavors for a tasty meal. Ground beef gets a lift from hot honey and is served over a bed of rice or veggies!
You know it’s a winner when dinner is ready in under 30 minutes. I love adding some crunchy toppings like green onions or sesame seeds for extra yumminess. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work well too!
Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and heartiness. If they’re not available, regular potatoes or even butternut squash make great substitutes.
Hot Honey: Hot honey gives these bowls their unique flair. If you can’t find it in stores, mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to achieve a similar flavor.
Kale: While I love kale, spinach or Swiss chard can be used for a different texture. Both are great options for a quick sauté!
How Do You Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes can make all the difference in texture and flavor. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for optimal roasting.
- Cut the sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and sprinkle with olive oil, salt, and spices.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet; crowding them can make them steam instead of roast.
- Flip halfway through for an even golden brown color.
By following these steps, your sweet potatoes will come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!
Easy Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups kale or preferred greens, washed and trimmed
- 2 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
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 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and half the smoked paprika. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crispy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, the rest of the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
3. Sauté the Greens:
In another pan, lightly sauté the kale or preferred greens with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. This adds a nice texture and a healthy touch to your bowl!
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Divide the cooked ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed greens evenly among 3-4 bowls. Add the sliced avocado on top for that creamy goodness.
5. Add the Hot Honey:
Drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of hot honey over each bowl just before serving. This adds the perfect sweet and spicy kick to your meal.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some optional garnishes like chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful and balanced Easy Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls!
Get ready for a mouthwatering dinner that you’ll want to make again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be substituted for a lighter option. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the protein you choose.
Is It Possible to Prepare These Bowls in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the ground beef and roast the sweet potatoes in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the bowls for a quick meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep things moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Hot Honey?
If you can’t find hot honey, you can easily make your own by mixing regular honey with a dash of chili flakes or a few drops of hot sauce. This will give you a similar sweet and spicy flavor profile!
