These Easy Spicy Honey Ground Beef Bowls are a delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors! With ground beef cooked in honey and chili sauce, you get a tasty kick with every bite.
Perfect for a quick meal, I love adding some veggies on top for extra crunch. And let’s be real, who doesn’t enjoy a little sweetness on their plate? 🍯🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is key for this dish, bringing rich flavor. If you prefer leaner options, ground turkey or chicken work well too. For a vegetarian choice, try using lentils or black beans instead!
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes add sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have them, you could use regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even quinoa for a different texture.
Sriracha: This spicy sauce gives the bowl a kick! If spicy food isn’t your thing, you can reduce the amount or replace it with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to balance the heat. You can substitute agave syrup or maple syrup if you want a vegan option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes gives them a lovely texture and flavor. It’s important to cut them into even-sized cubes, so they cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a good roast.
- Toss the cubes with olive oil and seasonings before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Keep space between them so they crisp up.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through to get an even color.
Using these tips will help you create delicious bowls with great flavors and textures! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spicy Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha or chili sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup kale or spinach, washed and chopped
- Optional: lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes in total, including cooking time. You’ll enjoy 20-25 minutes of roasting the sweet potatoes while preparing the deliciously spiced ground beef. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated well. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep cooking until it turns browned and is fully cooked through, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Season it with some salt and pepper to taste.
3. Make the Spicy Honey Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the honey and Sriracha (or your chosen chili sauce). Mix well until it’s blended together—this is your spicy honey sauce that adds a sweet kick to the dish!
4. Combine Beef with Sauce:
Once your ground beef is cooked, drizzle about half of the spicy honey sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the beef evenly, letting it cook for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to create your bowls! Start with a base of roasted sweet potatoes, then add a generous scoop of your honey-spiced ground beef. Finish it off with a handful of fresh or sautéed kale (or spinach) and a few slices of avocado on top.
6. Finish with More Sauce:
Add a little extra drizzle of the spicy honey sauce over the top if you like it extra sweet and spicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your bowls warm, and feel free to add lime wedges for a zesty touch if you want. Enjoy this sweet, spicy, and filling dish that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Leaner Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or use a mild chili sauce. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely and just use honey for a sweet dish!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sweet potatoes and cook the ground beef in advance—just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them, assemble the bowls, and enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water to the beef to help maintain moisture if needed.
