Can I make these Sweet Chili Ground Beef Bowls ahead of time?

Yes! This sweet chili beef mince recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook the beef and vegetables, then store the sweet chili beef rice bowl in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

What vegetables work best in sweet chili beef and green bean bowls?

Green beans, bell peppers, and carrots work wonderfully, but you can also add snap peas or broccoli. These vegetables keep the sweet chili beef stir fry crunchy and colorful.

Can I make a slow cooker version of this recipe?

Absolutely. Brown the ground beef first, then combine with the sweet chili sauce and vegetables in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2–3 hours to create tender, flavorful sweet chili ground beef bowls slow cooker style.

Is this Thai minced beef recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from red chili flakes, which you can adjust to taste. For a more authentic Thai chili beef recipe, add extra fresh chilies or chili sauce.

Sweet Chili Ground Beef Bowls – Easy Weeknight Recipe 2026

Description

A flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring ground beef cooked in a sweet chili sauce with vegetables and served over steamed rice. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe delivers a balance of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors. Customize with your favorite vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition and crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):

For the Beef Bowl:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
1/2 cup carrots, julienned (optional)

For the Sweet Chili Sauce:

1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

For Serving:

2 cups cooked jasmine or white rice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in green beans and other optional vegetables.
Cook 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir to coat evenly and simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked rice into four bowls.
Top each with the sweet chili ground beef mixture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Make it Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat for a quick meal.
Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker for 2–3 hours on low.
Spice Level: Adjust red chili flakes to your taste for a milder or spicier dish.
Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Rice Bowl
Method: Stovetop / Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Thai