These crispy chile ground beef and cauliflower bowls are a tasty meal that brings lots of flavor! The beef is seasoned perfectly, and the cauliflower adds a nice crunch.
I love how quick they are to make, perfect for busy nights! Plus, you can load on your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado to make it even better. Who doesn’t love a customizable bowl? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish, providing crunch and a great texture. If you can’t find cauliflower, try broccoli or even Brussels sprouts for a different flavor.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef to keep it healthier. If you prefer something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well and keeps the dish lean.
Chili Powder: The chili powder gives the beef its kick! If you’re looking for something milder, substitute it with sweet paprika or omit it completely. You can always add hot sauce later to adjust the heat.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or even green onions for a fresh herb touch.
How Can I Get My Cauliflower Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy cauliflower, it’s all about roasting technique. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure the cauliflower florets are cut small and evenly sized for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Space them out so they roast instead of steam.
- Turn them halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
With these steps, you’ll end up with wonderfully crisp cauliflower every time!
Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal will take about 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, plus 25 minutes cooking the cauliflower and beef. The final assembly takes about 5 minutes. A quick, delicious dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Cauliflower:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure they roast nicely. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the fragrance to fill your kitchen.
3. Brown the Beef:
Turn up the heat to medium-high, then add in the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir it until the beef is browned and crispy—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Season the Beef:
Now, stir in your chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes. This step ensures all those spices soak into the beef!
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
As the cauliflower and beef are done cooking, it’s time to dish them out! First, divide the roasted cauliflower among your bowls, then top each portion with the crispy chile ground beef. If you want a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt a little.
6. Add Final Touches:
Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro, slices of avocado, and a scoop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like. Finish off with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick just before diving in!
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy chile ground beef and cauliflower bowls!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative for this recipe. It will still absorb all those delicious spices and provide a similar texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the cauliflower from drying out.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No worries! You can reduce or completely omit the chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your taste. Feel free to replace it with sweet paprika or simply season with salt and pepper.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat and use tofu or chickpeas as a protein. You can also skip the cheese and sour cream or use vegan alternatives.
