Looking for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and packed with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy? This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is your answer. Tender, juicy ground beef is coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet hot honey sauce and served over fluffy rice, creating a simple yet satisfying meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day, preparing a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this bowl delivers comfort and a little kick in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Sweet and spicy flavor combination that excites the taste buds
- Flexible: can be made with ground chicken or turkey
- Easy to meal prep and store for later
- Beginner-friendly with simple, everyday ingredients
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 pound) – The protein-packed base of the dish
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics
- Small onion (1, finely chopped) – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic warmth
- Cooked rice (1 cup) – Fluffy base to soak up the sauce
- Hot honey (1/4 cup) – Sweet and spicy coating for the beef
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds umami and saltiness
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Balances flavors with acidity
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds subtle smokiness
- Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor
- Salt (to taste) – Seasoning to taste
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, for garnish) – Adds freshness and color
- Sesame seeds (for garnish) – Provides crunch and visual appeal
How to Make Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the Sauce
Stir in the hot honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Combine with Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring until the rice is evenly coated with the beef and sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let everything heat through.
Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and serve in bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Adjust hot honey to control spiciness
- Ensure rice is cooked and slightly cooled to prevent clumping
- Use a nonstick skillet for easier cleanup
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Recipe Variations
- Ground Chicken or Turkey: Swap beef for a leaner protein
- Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or more hot honey
- Veggie-Loaded: Mix in bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice
Serving Suggestions
Pair this bowl with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad. For a fuller meal, serve with pickled vegetables or kimchi to add brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the amount of hot honey or add red pepper flakes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use other meats?
Ground chicken or turkey works perfectly as a substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
What is hot honey?
Hot honey is honey infused with chili. You can buy it or make it at home by mixing honey with a touch of chili.
Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Experience a mouthwatering blend of juicy ground beef, a drizzle of hot honey, and fluffy rice all in one bowl. This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is quick, easy, and full of flavor—a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup hot honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in hot honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked rice and stir until coated. Cook 2 more minutes to meld flavors.
- Remove from heat, serve in bowls, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more hot honey or red pepper flakes.
- Chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef.
- Pair with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Great for meal prep; store in refrigerator up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is the perfect quick and flavorful dinner. It combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements in a comforting bowl that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try it, adjust the heat to your liking, and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free meal that’s perfect any night of the week.
