Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds / 680g), peeled if desired and cut into 1-inch cubes

1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

¼ cup (85g) honey

1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (smoky chipotle recommended)

1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Optional toppings: fresh cilantro or parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Peel (if desired) and cut the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. Toss them in a large bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the sweet potatoes for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender. For extra crispiness, roast an additional 5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 4: While the potatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust heat and acidity as desired.

Step 7: Divide roasted sweet potatoes among bowls. Top with spiced ground beef and drizzle generously with hot honey sauce.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh cilantro, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crumbled cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or seasoned mushrooms.

Adjust the chili flakes and hot sauce to control the spiciness of the dish.

Try adding a squeeze of fresh lime instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.

To make it gluten-free, ensure your hot sauce does not contain any gluten ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used instead of beef. Adjust cooking times as needed, and season similarly for the best flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount of chili flakes and hot sauce used. You can reduce or omit these to make it milder or increase them for more spice.