These Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls are a tasty mix of flavors! With hearty ground beef and crunchy cauliflower, they are filling yet healthy.
I love how easy these bowls are to whip up on a busy day. Just cook the beef, roast the cauliflower, and pile everything in a bowl—simple and satisfying! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This vegetable gives a wonderful texture to the bowls. If you can’t find cauliflower, try using broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a different flavor. You can also use frozen cauliflower florets in a pinch!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is my go-to for a healthy meal. However, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Chili Powder: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference! If you want a milder flavor, you can use paprika or a mix of sweet and smoked paprika instead.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. If avoiding soy is a concern, try using vegetable broth for added flavor.
Avocado: This is optional, but it adds creaminess. You can swap it for sliced cucumbers or radishes for added crunch and freshness.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Roasted Cauliflower?
The key to crispy cauliflower is roasting it at a high temperature. Preheat your oven and make sure to spread the florets evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting!
- Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even cooking.
- When the edges are golden brown and crispy, they’re done!
Enjoy these cooking tips to make your bowls flavorful and satisfying! Personalizing ingredients to your taste can really make a difference in the enjoyment of the dish. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Juice of 1 lime
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional, for serving)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or leafy greens to serve (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes. You’ll have delicious, healthy bowls ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep the Cauliflower:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer for even roasting.
2. Roast the Cauliflower:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cauliflower for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn the florets halfway through the cooking time to get them nice and crispy on all sides.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through.
4. Add Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Season the Meat:
Next, add the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper if you’d like. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce, soy sauce, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the lime juice and then season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Your meat mixture should be flavorful and aromatic!
8. Assembly Time:
Now it’s time to build your bowls! Start by placing a generous layer of the roasted cauliflower at the bottom of each bowl. Top it with a scoop of the chile ground beef mixture.
9. Add the Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley. If you like, you can also add sliced avocado and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These bowls can be served on their own or over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or leafy greens for a more filling meal. Dig in and enjoy your yummy and hearty Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls!
FAQ for Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen cauliflower, but there’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Just toss the frozen florets with olive oil and seasonings, and roast them for a bit longer—about 25-30 minutes—until they reach your desired crispiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils. Replace the honey with maple syrup or omit it altogether, and check that your soy sauce is vegan-friendly!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the beef mixture and cauliflower in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Make the Ground Beef Mixture in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove before assembling your bowls.
