One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
If you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, and just a little bit spicy, you’re going to fall head over heels for One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef. This dish is a weeknight dinner hero: bold flavors, a touch of honeyed sweetness, and a deep smokiness all come together in one skillet, so cleanup is blissfully easy. Picture tender ground beef mingling with aromatic spices, a splash of vinegar for brightness, and a generous drizzle of honey for balance. The result is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for serving over rice, stuffing in a bun, or piling onto fluffy mashed potatoes. If you’re looking for a new go-to, this is the one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is how it turns simple, everyday ingredients into something truly special. Each component brings its own personality to the dish, building layers of flavor and texture you’ll love.
- Ground beef: The heart of the meal, providing richness and a satisfying bite.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a soft, aromatic base that melds with the beef.
- Garlic: A punch of aroma and depth that wakes up the whole skillet.
- Chili powder: The backbone of the spice, giving warmth without overwhelming heat.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness that makes the dish unforgettable.
- Cumin: Brings earthiness and ties together the chili flavors beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out all those wonderful flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and sharpness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat, sprinkle these in.
- Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and adds a savory, tangy note.
- Honey: The secret ingredient, lending sweetness that balances the smoky spice.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings brightness and cuts through the richness.
- Beef broth or water: Helps create a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- Fresh parsley or green onions: A fresh pop of color and flavor for the final flourish.
How to Make One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion together, letting them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the beef to be golden brown and crumbly, while the onion softens and becomes fragrant. If there’s extra grease in the pan, just drain it off—no one likes a greasy sauce!
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Spices
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells incredible and the spices are toasty and fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste
Scoot the beef mixture to the side and add the tomato paste right into the pan. Let it cook for about a minute, stirring it in so it coats every morsel. This little step deepens the flavor and gives the sauce a beautiful, rich color.
Step 4: Sweeten and Simmer
Now for the magic touch—pour in the honey, apple cider vinegar, and beef broth (or water). Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 5 to 7 minutes, uncovered. The sauce will thicken and become glossy, perfectly coating the beef.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once the sauce is thick and irresistible, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top for a burst of freshness and color. Your One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is ready to serve—dig in while it’s hot!
How to Serve One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs goes a long way here. Chopped parsley adds a bright, grassy note, while green onions bring a gentle sharpness and a pop of color. If you want to get fancy, a few slices of fresh red chili or a small dollop of sour cream can make your plate look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This dish is super versatile, so let your cravings lead the way. Serve your One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef over fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even buttery polenta. It’s also fantastic spooned into a toasted sandwich bun or tucked inside warm tortillas for an easy twist on tacos.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn leftovers into something new! Stuff the chili beef into bell peppers and bake until bubbly, scoop it over baked sweet potatoes, or use it as a hearty filling for wraps. If you’re hosting, pile it onto a platter with all your favorite toppings and let guests build their own bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef makes a fantastic next-day meal. Allow the beef to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or easy lunches.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Spoon the cooled beef mixture into a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your chili beef back to life, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks a bit thick. For a quick fix, the microwave works just fine—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot all the way through.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives the richest flavor, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives. You might want to add a dash more smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost the savory depth.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The base recipe is more smoky and sweet than spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat. Add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like it hot, or leave them out for a milder dish that everyone can enjoy.
What’s the best way to serve One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef for a party?
For a crowd, set out a build-your-own bar with rice, buns, or tortillas and plenty of toppings—think shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh herbs. It’s a fun, interactive way to serve this dish and everyone gets exactly what they want.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Doubling the ingredients is perfect for feeding a hungry family or making sure you have plenty of leftovers for the week.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your beef broth and spices don’t contain hidden gluten. Serve it with rice, potatoes, or gluten-free bread for a safe and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s equal parts comforting, flavorful, and effortless, One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef needs to be on your dinner table. It’s a true weeknight savior that’s sure to win hearts (and taste buds) every time. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your home kitchen!
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One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is a quick and flavorful dinner recipe featuring ground beef simmered in a sweet and smoky sauce made with honey, chili powder, and smoked paprika. This easy, gluten-free main course comes together in just 30 minutes and is perfect served over rice, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich bun for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking for 5–7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute, stirring to combine thoroughly with the beef and spices.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the honey, apple cider vinegar, and beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the mixture cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef nicely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich bun as desired.
Notes
- Adjust the honey quantity to your preferred sweetness level.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cinnamon.
- Leftovers work great as a filling for tacos or wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
