Name: Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (93% preferred); 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat); 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 taco seasoning packet (or 2 tbsp homemade); 2 tbsp hot honey; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! The Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is one of my favorite meals to whip up on busy weeknights or when I’m hosting friends. It combines sweet and spicy flavors in a way that makes your taste buds dance, while packing in plenty of protein to keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s versatile enough for family gatherings or meal prep, making it an absolute winner in my kitchen.

This recipe stands out not just for its deliciousness but also for its simplicity. With wholesome ingredients and easy steps, you’ll find yourself coming back to this bowl time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish takes only about 55 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those hectic evenings!
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors in the Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl.
Meal Prep Ready: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s just as good reheated!
Flavor Explosion: The sweet potatoes paired with taco-seasoned beef and hot honey create a delightful balance of tastes.
Nutrient-Packed: With lean protein and wholesome veggies, this bowl is a nourishing choice for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are all easy to find at your local grocery store, so you can get started on this delicious meal without any fuss.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef (93% preferred)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 taco seasoning packet (or 2 tbsp homemade)
– 2 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about the Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Change up the cheese: Greek yogurt can replace cottage cheese for a tangy twist.
Add different veggies: Roasted bell peppers or broccoli would be delicious additions!
Make it spicy: Toss in some jalapeños or use a spicier hot honey for an extra kick!

How to Make Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Start by tossing your diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spreading them out on a baking sheet allows them to caramelize beautifully during roasting. Bake for about 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While those sweet potatoes are roasting away, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and cook until they become soft and translucent—this step really enhances their sweetness! Next, stir in your ground beef along with the taco seasoning. Cook until browned and flavorful; this will give your bowl that savory kick we love.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part—layering! In each bowl, start with a generous scoop of roasted sweet potatoes. Then add your taco-seasoned ground beef followed by sliced avocado and creamy cottage cheese. Each layer contributes something special to this delightful bowl.

Step 4: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Finally, drizzle that sweet hot honey over the top! If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes for an added touch. This step ties everything together beautifully, creating an irresistible fusion of flavors.

Enjoy every bite of your Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

Creating the perfect Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is a breeze with these handy tips!

Choose lean ground beef: Opting for 93% lean ground beef keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor, making it a healthier option that still satisfies your cravings.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. This not only adds more nutrients but also enhances the overall taste and texture of your bowl.
Make your own taco seasoning: If you have the time, creating your own taco seasoning allows you to control the spice levels and avoid additives found in store-bought packets.
Experiment with hot honey: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different varieties of hot honey or add some chili flakes to regular honey for an extra kick. This can elevate the flavor profile and make each bowl uniquely yours.
Meal prep friendly: Prepare extra sweet potatoes and ground beef ahead of time. This way, you can easily assemble bowls during busy weekdays, saving you time while still enjoying delicious meals.

How to Serve Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

Serving this dish is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some ideas on how to make your Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl visually appealing and delectable.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Red pepper flakes: For those who love extra heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance the spiciness and give your bowl a vibrant look.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up all the flavors, adding a zesty finish that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty bowl.
Quinoa: This protein-packed grain is not only nutritious but also adds a lovely nuttiness that complements the flavors in your hot honey bowl.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crispy texture that balances out the softness of the sweet potatoes.
Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread on the side brings a touch of sweetness and comforting texture, making this meal even more satisfying.

Enjoy crafting your Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl! It’s perfect for dinner gatherings or meal prepping for those busy weeks ahead.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy nutritious meals throughout the week with minimal effort. Here’s how to store your leftovers, freeze them, and reheat them for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
Place individual servings in airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cool the bowl completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags to avoid freezer burn.
Label with the date and contents; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Microwave on medium heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl:

Can I customize the toppings for my Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like fresh herbs, different vegetables, or even a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors.

How spicy is the Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can control it by adjusting the amount of hot honey or adding additional spices like chili flakes or jalapeños.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide a savory flavor while being leaner. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

Is this Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe stores well, making it ideal for meal prepping. Just follow the storing instructions to keep everything fresh.

What can I serve with my Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl?

This bowl is quite filling on its own, but you could pair it with a light salad or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that not only tastes incredible but also packs a nutritional punch. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy days or just want a hearty dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

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