These Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls are packed with flavor! The spicy beef combined with crunchy cauliflower makes each bite exciting and satisfying!
Every time I make these bowls, they vanish fast—who can resist that crispy goodness? I love adding some fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro to make it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! I love roasting it until it’s crispy. If you want a change, try using broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a different flavor and texture.
Ground Beef: Beef gives a rich flavor, but turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter. Vegetarian options like lentils or a meat substitute also work well!
Chili Powder: Adjust the spice to your preference! If you don’t have chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne works in a pinch. Other options include taco seasoning or cumin with a bit of cayenne for heat.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fresh kick to the bowls, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions make nice substitutes.
How Do You Get Crispy Cauliflower Every Time?
Getting that perfect crispy cauliflower is key to this dish. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Cut cauliflower evenly to ensure even roasting; smaller pieces crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space, so they roast rather than steam.
- Roast until golden! It usually takes 20-25 minutes at 425°F (220°C). A little patience here goes a long way!
Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
- Red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, so plan for around 40 minutes total from start to finish. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). To make cleaning easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a pinch of chili powder if you’d like. Spread them out evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the Cauliflower:
Pop the cauliflower in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to toss them halfway through so they cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
4. Cook the Beef:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook while breaking up the beef with a spoon until it’s browned and the onions are softened, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add the Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing!
6. Assemble the Bowls:
When the cauliflower is beautifully roasted, take it out of the oven and portion it into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the spicy ground beef mixture.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish your bowls with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you’d like. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
If you like a bit more heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls while they’re hot!
FAQ for Crispy Chile Ground Beef & Cauliflower Bowls
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen cauliflower thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. You might need to roast them a bit longer to achieve that crispy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes! For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative like soy crumbles or tofu. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different ingredients.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain texture. You might want to add a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavors!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can roast the cauliflower and prepare the beef mixture ahead of time. Just cool and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat both components and assemble your bowls for a quick meal!
