These Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Ground beef is cooked perfectly with a drizzle of hot honey, giving each bite a fun kick.
They’re super easy to make, and the flavors are absolutely mouthwatering. Plus, you can top them with your favorite veggies for some extra crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. For plant-based, try using lentils or a meat alternative for a tasty twist!
Hot Honey: Hot honey is what brings that sweet and spicy kick. If you can’t find it, mix regular honey with a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce. Maple syrup can work for a milder taste if you prefer!
Butternut Squash: Roasted butternut squash adds sweetness and texture. If it’s out of season, try sweet potatoes or even carrots as a great alternative.
Cottage Cheese: This gives creaminess to the bowl. You can substitute ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, or skip the dairy entirely if needed for a dairy-free option.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch. Substitute with bell peppers or radishes for something different and colorful!
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef might seem simple, but there are a few tips to keep it juicy and flavorful. Begin by heating your skillet to medium-high before adding the beef. This helps it sear properly before cooking through.
- Break the meat apart gently with a spoon to allow even cooking. Avoid pressing down too hard, as this can make it tough.
- Season early to let flavors absorb! Add your salt and pepper right after the beef is fully browned for better taste.
- Finally, drain excess fat if necessary, especially if you use higher fat beef. This keeps your dish from being greasy.
Following these steps will ensure your ground beef is flavorful and perfectly cooked!
Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp hot honey (honey infused with chili or hot sauce)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 30 minutes for cooking, plus extra time if you need to roast the butternut squash beforehand. Great for a meal that’s ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roasting the Butternut Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through for even cooking!
2. Cooking the Ground Beef:
While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Combining Flavors:
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the soy sauce and 1 tbsp of hot honey, mixing well to coat the meat thoroughly. Cook for another minute, then remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Assembling Your Bowls:
In serving bowls, start by layering the cooked white rice, then the roasted butternut squash. Next, add the sliced cucumber and avocado. Spoon the hot honey ground beef on top of these fresh ingredients.
5. Final Touches:
To finish, garnish your bowls with chopped green onions, finely chopped red chilies, and a drizzle of any remaining hot honey. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for that extra crunch!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in immediately and savor the combination of sweet, spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors in every bite!
This recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and is perfect for a warm, hearty meal any night of the week!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils or meat alternatives for a delicious variation.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can cook the ground beef and roast the butternut squash ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble your bowls!
What Can I Substitute for Hot Honey?
If you can’t find hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor. Adjust based on your spice tolerance!