Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl Recipe
Introduction
This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines savory beef with a sweet and spicy kick. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and comforting.

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
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Step 3: Stir in the hot honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until the rice is well coated with the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and serve the beef mixture in bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added pop of flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or use a spicier hot honey variety.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad to add freshness and balance.
- If you prefer, use brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious grain alternative.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help keep the mixture moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve and add fresh garnishes just before eating.
What’s the best way to make hot honey at home?
To make hot honey, gently heat honey with your choice of chili flakes or fresh chili peppers for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the solids for a smooth, spicy sweetener.
PrintGround Beef Hot Honey Bowl Recipe
A flavorful Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl combining savory browned beef with sweet and spicy honey glaze, served over rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. This quick and easy skillet meal offers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and umami flavors for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
Rice
- 1 cup cooked rice
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula to break it up. Cook until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed.
- Add seasoning and sauce: Stir in hot honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly and allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Incorporate rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir gently until all the rice grains are coated with the savory beef mixture. Cook an additional 2 minutes to warmly combine the ingredients.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Portion the hot beef and rice mixture into bowls and sprinkle with chopped green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds for a vibrant and flavorful finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly cooked rice rather than leftover or cold rice.
- Adjust hot honey quantity to your preferred spice level; more honey will increase sweetness and heat.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter version.
- If gluten-free soy sauce is used, this recipe becomes gluten free friendly.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Keywords: ground beef bowl, hot honey beef, sweet and spicy beef, easy beef skillet, quick dinner, one-pan meal

