Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

February 11, 2026

By Emma Waters

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Cozy Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of hearty goodness, especially when it’s a dish that wraps you in warmth like a soothing blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine the golden-brown ground beef, gently mingling with sweet and spicy hot honey, creating a meal that brings both satisfaction and joy. This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is just that—a delightful fusion of flavors that pays homage to cozy weeknight dinners, where the scent of sizzling garlic and onion dances through the house as you prepare a meal bursting with love.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of evenings spent in the kitchen with family, where laughter and hearty meals went hand in hand. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and comfort. I know you’ll want to pin this recipe for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  • Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of sweet heat from hot honey and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl filled with tender ground beef and fluffy rice.
  • Customizable: Swap out ingredients or add your favorite veggies to suit your family’s taste.
  • One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward!

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to bring your Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl to life:

  • 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal that will warm your soul.

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be simply divine!
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it away to keep things light and flavorful.
  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, allowing the flavors to unfold beautifully.
  4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring until the rice is well coated with the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting those warm flavors meld together into a harmonious dish.
  5. Remove from heat and serve the beef mixture in individual bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.

Fun Ways to Customize It

While this Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is fantastic on its own, why not put your own spin on it? Here are a few delicious variations to try:

  • Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for added color and crunch.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for those who crave more heat.
  • Creamy Addition: Drizzle a little ranch or sesame dressing over the top for a creamy twist.
  • Rice Alternatives: Swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

To ensure your Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
  • Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter meal.
  • Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—simply reheat when ready to enjoy!
  • Rice Cooking: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice packets for an even quicker meal.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Here’s what’s inside your comforting bowl, allowing you to savor while keeping track of your nutrition:

  • Serving size: 1 bowl (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
  • Calories: 450
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the beef mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, and add your favorite veggies.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How long does it last?
Enjoy your meal within a few days for the best flavor and freshness!

A Cozy Closing Note

This Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, a reminder of the beauty of cooking with love. Each bite is filled with a comforting blend of flavors that will surely become a favorite in your household. Save this delightful recipe to your cozy meal board, and bring a little warmth into your kitchen when you need it most!

Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowl

A comforting bowl filled with golden-brown ground beef, sweet and spicy hot honey, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main 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
  • to taste Salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
  • to taste Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • 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 necessary.
  • Stir in the hot honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring until the rice is well coated with the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and serve the beef mixture in individual bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Notes

This dish is customizable with added veggies or alternative proteins. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 24gFat: 22gSodium: 800mgSugar: 6g
Keyword Comfort Food, Ground Beef, Hot Honey Bowl
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