Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

Looking for a high-protein, flavor-packed bowl that hits all the sweet, savory, and spicy notes? This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is a viral favorite for good reason. Tender roasted sweet potatoes, taco-seasoned ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and a drizzle of hot honey come together in one satisfying bowl that’s perfect for meal prep or a hearty dinner. Each bite delivers a balance of textures and flavors—crispy, creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet—that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High-protein bowl with 33–38g per serving
• Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
• Sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in every bite
• Easy to customize with low-carb or lighter protein options
• Satisfying, comforting, and visually appealing

Ingredients

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – Roasted until golden and tender for natural sweetness
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve caramelized edges
• 1/2 tsp paprika – Adds mild smoky flavor
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses subtle savory notes
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon – Enhances sweetness naturally
• Salt and pepper – Balances all flavors

For the Ground Beef

• 1 lb lean ground beef (93% preferred) – Protein-packed base, browned for rich flavor
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Sweetens and complements beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade – Provides bold Mexican-inspired seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing onions and beef
• 1/4 cup water – Helps simmer seasoning into beef

Toppings

• 1 cup cottage cheese – Adds creamy texture and extra protein
• 1 medium avocado, sliced – Creamy freshness
• 2 tbsp hot honey (about 1/2 tbsp per bowl) – Sweet heat that ties the flavors together
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, red pepper flakes, lime wedges

How to Make Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet (avoid crowding). Roast for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until edges are caramelized and centers are fork-tender.

Cook the Ground Beef

While the sweet potatoes roast, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it into bite-sized crumbles. Cook until deeply browned with no pink remaining, about 8–10 minutes.

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the browned beef and add 1/4 cup water. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat; beef should remain saucy, not dry.

Assemble the Bowls

Layer warm roasted sweet potatoes in the bottom of each serving bowl. Add taco-seasoned ground beef, then 1/4–1/2 cup cottage cheese and fresh avocado slices. Drizzle about 1/2 tbsp hot honey over each bowl. Top with optional cilantro, green onions, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately while temperature contrast is at its peak.

Tips for Success

• Roast sweet potatoes in a single layer to ensure crisp, caramelized edges
• Don’t overcook beef; keep it moist and saucy for maximum flavor
• Slice avocado fresh just before serving to prevent browning
• Start roasting sweet potatoes first and cook beef simultaneously to save time

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Serving bowls

Recipe Variations

• Lighter protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken
• Low-carb: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
• Creamy alternative: Blend cottage cheese smooth for a no-curd texture
• Extra spice: Add chili flakes or sriracha to hot honey drizzle

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bowl with a simple green salad, pickled jalapeños, or tortilla chips on the side for added texture. Lime wedges enhance the sweet-and-spicy balance beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store roasted sweet potatoes and cooked beef separately in airtight containers for 3–4 days. Assemble with fresh avocado and toppings before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Cooked beef freezes well for up to 3 months. Sweet potatoes can be frozen but may lose some crispness.

Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, each serving provides 33–38g of protein, making it ideal for meal prep and active lifestyles.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace beef with roasted chickpeas, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

What’s the best way to drizzle hot honey?
Warm slightly if thick, then drizzle sparingly over each bowl to balance heat and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is the ultimate comfort-meets-meal-prep dish. Sweet, savory, spicy, and creamy all at once, it’s satisfying, high in protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or prepping lunches for the week. Try it out, tweak toppings to your taste, and enjoy this deliciously balanced bowl anytime you need a flavor-packed meal.

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