Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl
Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, perfect for a quick dinner or a meal prep option. The warm, roasted sweet potatoes serve as a hearty base, while the seasoned ground beef adds richness and flavor. Topped with creamy avocado, protein-packed cottage cheese, and a drizzle of hot honey, this bowl is an amazing fusion of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is definitely worth making!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is not just a treat for the taste buds but also offers several benefits that make it an ideal meal choice. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for future lunches. The combination of sweet potatoes and ground beef provides a balanced meal rich in nutrients, ensuring your family stays satisfied without feeling weighed down.
Furthermore, this dish is family-friendly! Children and adults alike will be drawn to the bold flavors, and the customizable nature of the bowl allows everyone to add their favorite toppings. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, which is always a bonus during mealtime.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93% preferred) – A good source of protein that’s flavorful.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – Their natural sweetness complements the savory beef.
- 1 avocado, sliced – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat) – A rich source of protein that enhances the dish.
- 1 yellow onion, diced – Provides aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For roasting and sautéing, imparting richness.
- 1 taco seasoning packet (or 2 tbsp homemade) – Adds a zesty kick to the beef.
- 2 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade) – For that magical touch of sweetness and heat.
- 1/2 tsp paprika – Contributes smokiness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Adds a burst of flavor.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon – Brings warmth and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
As you prepare these ingredients, take a moment to appreciate their colors and textures; the vivid orange of sweet potatoes, the deep green of avocado, and the golden brown of browned beef combine to create a feast for the senses.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your sweet potatoes roast evenly, developing their natural sweetness and tender texture.
Prepare Sweet Potatoes
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Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Make sure that all the sweet potato pieces are well-coated with the seasoning, as it will enhance their flavor during roasting.
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Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer to allow for even cooking.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through. The sweet potatoes should be golden and easily pierced with a fork when done.
Cook the Ground Beef
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While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Let the oil warm up before adding the onions.
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Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The onions should become translucent and slightly sweet during this time.
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Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season it with the taco mix. Cook until browned and flavorful—around 5-7 minutes.
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Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Assemble the Bowl
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In each bowl, layer the roasted sweet potatoes, followed by the seasoned ground beef. The contrast between the warm sweet potatoes and ground beef starts to create a delightful texture profile.
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Top with sliced avocado and a generous scoop of cottage cheese. The creamy avocado and protein-rich cottage cheese round out the flavor and texture experience.
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Drizzle hot honey over the top for that sweet-spicy kick. If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, or a lime wedge for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips & Tricks
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other toppings according to your preference—pickled jalapeños, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese can elevate your bowl further.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, consider mixing some diced jalapeños into the ground beef or adding more hot honey to your serving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge, so make extra components for quick access during the week.
- Sweet Potato Alternative: If you’re short on sweet potatoes, other root vegetables such as carrots or butternut squash can work in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl pairs beautifully with a side salad adorned with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the flavors. Additionally, consider serving it with warm tortillas on the side for an extra element of enjoyment. Fresh fruit, like sliced mango or oranges, can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Nutritional Information
The Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl offers a wholesome balance of ingredients:
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
This nutritional profile makes it a great option for those seeking a high-protein, satisfying meal without excess calories.
Storing Tips & Variations
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the components separately—ground beef, sweet potatoes, and cheese—and thaw overnight in the fridge for later use.
- Variations: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also try black beans or lentils for a vegetarian alternative.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is a flavorful and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Filled with wholesome ingredients and a delightful mix of sweetness and spice, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQs
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Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe. -
Is hot honey vegan?
Most store-bought hot honey is not vegan as it contains honey. However, you can make a vegan version using maple syrup and chili flakes. -
Can I meal prep this bowl?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components in advance and combine them when ready to serve. -
What can I add for extra crunch?
Chopped nuts, seeds, or crispy tortilla strips can add a delightful crunch to your bowl. -
How do I make this dish spicy?
You can increase the amount of hot honey, add red pepper flakes, or include fresh diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93% preferred) A good source of protein that's flavorful.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced Their natural sweetness complements the savory beef.
- 1 whole avocado, sliced Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat) A rich source of protein that enhances the dish.
- 1 whole yellow onion, diced Provides aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.
Seasoning and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil For roasting and sautéing, imparting richness.
- 1 packet taco seasoning Adds a zesty kick to the beef.
- 2 tbsp hot honey For that magical touch of sweetness and heat.
- 1/2 tsp paprika Contributes smokiness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Adds a burst of flavor.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon Brings warmth and depth.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Sweet Potatoes
- Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart and season it with the taco mix.
- Cook until browned and flavorful, around 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Assemble the Bowl
- In each bowl, layer the roasted sweet potatoes followed by the seasoned ground beef.
- Top with sliced avocado and a generous scoop of cottage cheese.
- Drizzle hot honey over the top.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, or a lime wedge if desired.