These Easy Spicy Honey Ground Beef Bowls are packed with flavor! Juicy ground beef is cooked with a perfect blend of spices and sweet honey for a tasty kick.
I love serving these bowls over rice or noodles, and they make dinner a breeze! Plus, every bite is a little sweet and a little spicy—what’s not to love? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Typically, I use 80/20 ground beef for good flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, but they may cook slightly faster.
Sweet Potatoes: These add a natural sweetness. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can be great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as regular potatoes may need a bit longer to roast.
Honey: Honey gives the dish a sweet kick. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used if you’re avoiding honey, but taste as you go since they vary in sweetness.
Kale or Spinach: For greens, feel free to use any leafy greens you like. Swiss chard or arugula are nice choices too! You can also use frozen spinach, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
How Can I Perfectly Cook Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef properly is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a skillet that’s preheated to medium-high heat. This helps the beef brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. This makes it crispier!
- Break up the meat as it cooks to create even pieces. Don’t stir too soon; let it brown on one side before flipping.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat unless you prefer a richer flavor.
- Add your seasonings at the end of cooking for maximum flavor; allow them to bloom for a minute in the heat.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, flavorful ground beef for your bowls!
Easy Spicy Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sweet potatoes)
- 1 tsp chili powder (for sweet potatoes)
- 2 cups fresh kale or spinach
- 1 large ripe avocado, sliced
- Optional: lime wedges, red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes total, including roasting the sweet potatoes and cooking the beef. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crisp.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (and olive oil if your beef is very lean). Break it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
3. Add Seasonings:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices become fragrant and evenly coat the meat.
4. Sweeten the Beef:
Reduce the heat to low, and drizzle the honey over the seasoned beef. Stir to ensure all the meat is coated in that delicious honey goodness, and warm it through without burning the honey. Remove from heat when done.
5. Prepare the Greens:
If you’re using kale or spinach, sauté them quickly in a different pan with a little olive oil until just wilted, or you can serve them raw if you prefer.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to make your bowls! Start by dividing the roasted sweet potatoes, spicy honey ground beef, cooked greens, and sliced avocado into individual serving bowls.
7. Drizzle and Season:
Drizzle any leftover honey from the pan over the assembled bowls. If desired, squeeze some lime juice over the top for a zesty kick, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy the colorful, nourishing flavors of sweet, spicy, and savory in every bite!
This dish is not just easy to make but also packed with goodness, perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious!
FAQ about Easy Spicy Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that lean meats may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper, adding a splash of hot sauce, or sprinkling in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve the dish with sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the sweet potatoes and ground beef ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat everything and assemble your bowls fresh for the best flavor.
What Should I Serve with These Bowls?
These bowls are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a side of rice, quinoa, or additional fresh veggies for a more filling meal. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can also add creaminess!
