These Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls are full of flavor! With tender beef, spiced just right, and crunchy cauliflower, they’re a tasty twist on dinner.
I love how quick they are to make, and serving them in a bowl makes it feel like a fun meal. Just add your favorite toppings, and you’re set for a yummy night! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! It adds a nice crunch when roasted. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can try broccoli or Brussels sprouts, although cauliflower gives the best texture.
Ground Beef: I recommend using 85% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, but they may be less rich in flavor.
Chile Powder: This gives the beef its kick! You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you’re out of chile powder, cayenne or paprika can be good substitutes.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. You could use lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Roast Cauliflower to Make It Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy cauliflower is essential for this recipe! Follow these steps for great results:
- Start with a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps with crispiness.
- Toss the cauliflower in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the florets out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Crowding them can make them steam instead of roast.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure they cook evenly and get golden brown on all sides.
Remember, the more surface area exposed to the heat, the crispier they will get!
Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons chile powder (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for umami)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes around 10 minutes for prep work and approximately 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roasting the Cauliflower:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Make sure they’re well coated. Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want them to be crispy and golden brown on the edges.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Browning the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Brown it for about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off for a leaner mix.
4. Seasoning the Beef:
Now, stir in the chile powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you like it spicy!), and oregano. Cook these for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their flavors. Then add in the tomato sauce and soy sauce, stirring everything together. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lime juice for a fresh zip! It’s time to assemble your bowls.
6. Assembling the Bowls:
Divide the roasted cauliflower between serving bowls and layer on the delicious chile-spiced ground beef. Feel free to garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and any of the optional toppings that you enjoy, such as avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, or jalapeños.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy chile ground beef and cauliflower bowls right away and dig in! This dish is not only hearty but also packed with flavor and health benefits.
Enjoy your meal that’s full of crispy roasted cauliflower goodness and spicy, savory beef—a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture to avoid sogginess before roasting. You may need to adjust the roasting time slightly since frozen cauliflower can take a little longer to crisp up.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, increase the amount of chile powder or add extra cayenne pepper. You can also top your bowls with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick! Just be cautious and taste along the way to find your perfect spice level.
What Other Proteins Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
You can absolutely substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just cook them in the same way as the beef, adjusting cooking times as necessary for leaner meats.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry. The roasted cauliflower may lose some crispiness when reheated, but it will still taste great!
