These crispy chile ground beef and cauliflower bowls are full of flavor! The savory beef pairs perfectly with the tender cauliflower, creating a satisfying meal that’s healthy.
Plus, you can load these bowls with your favorite toppings like cheese or salsa for an extra kick. I love how easy they are to make for a quick dinner. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient that adds texture and health benefits. If you’re not a fan of cauliflower, you can swap it for broccoli or even zucchini. Both alternatives will give a different twist while keeping the dish light.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is my favorite choice, but you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or mushrooms instead.
Chile Pepper: A fresh chile pepper adds heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, go for bell peppers or even omit this altogether. If you want a quick solution, you can use a dash of hot sauce instead.
Spices: The chili powder and smoked paprika give this dish its smoky flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too. You can also mix up the spices – adding a pinch of cinnamon can introduce an exciting depth!
How Do I Get Crispy Cauliflower Every Time?
The key to perfect crispy cauliflower is roasting at a high temperature and giving it space on the baking sheet. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in oil and spices until they are evenly coated.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding; this helps them crisp up.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
This method guarantees a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden color!
Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 fresh chile pepper, finely chopped (e.g., jalapeño or serrano), optional for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder or regular chili powder for smoky flavor
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes to prepare, including 30 minutes of cooking time for the cauliflower and ground beef. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s great for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cauliflower:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Spread the florets out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the cauliflower is crispy and golden.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped chile pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the chipotle chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), ground coriander, oregano, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes into the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Once the cauliflower is crispy and out of the oven, divide the roasted florets into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the spicy ground beef mixture.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle lime juice over the top and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro. Feel free to add any optional toppings you like, such as shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, chopped green onions, or salsa.
7. Enjoy!
Serve warm and dig into your delicious crispy chile ground beef and cauliflower bowls! It’s a fantastic, healthy low-carb meal you’ll love!
FAQ for Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tempeh for a plant-based option that still packs in protein and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Cauliflower?
If cauliflower isn’t your favorite, broccoli or zucchini can be great alternatives. You can also use riced cauliflower for a slightly different texture, just adjust the cooking time!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can roast the cauliflower and cook the beef mixture ahead of time. Simply store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for a quick meal!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best results, keep the cauliflower and beef mixture separate until you’re ready to eat. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove!
