These Crispy Chili Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls are a tasty and fun meal! Juicy ground beef gets a kick from chili seasoning, while crispy cauliflower adds a nice crunch.
Trust me, you’ll love how easy these bowls are to whip up. Plus, they’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! Cauliflower adds a great texture and is low in carbs. If you can’t find cauliflower, you could swap in broccoli or even cubed butternut squash for a different flavor and look.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative. You could also use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Chili Powder: This gives the dish its kick! If you like it spicy, try adding more or mixing in cayenne pepper. For milder flavors, go easy on the chili powder or try a mild taco seasoning instead.
Cheddar Cheese: The optional cheese adds creaminess to the bowls. I recommend sharp cheddar for extra flavor! If you want a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
How Do I Roast Cauliflower to Get It Crispy?
Roasting cauliflower is key for achieving that crispy texture! The trick is to get your oven hot and use enough oil without overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut cauliflower into small florets to ensure they roast evenly.
- Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer; overcrowding will steam them rather than roast.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect crispy cauliflower every time!
How to Make Crispy Chili Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For Serving:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20-25 minutes cooking everything to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Roast the Cauliflower:
In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Spread them out evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden and crispy at the edges by the time they’re done.
3. Cook the Beef:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it if you’d like.
5. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for about a minute to let the spices release their wonderful aromas.
6. Combine with Tomatoes:
Add the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth (or water) to the skillet. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the mixture thickens slightly.
7. Assemble the Bowls:
Once the cauliflower is roasted, divide it among serving bowls. Spoon the chili ground beef mixture generously over the roasted cauliflower.
8. Add Cheese and Garnish:
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the hot beef mixture so it melts slightly. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds a delightful creaminess!
9. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Crispy Chili Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls! They’re packed with flavor and so satisfying!
FAQ for Crispy Chili Ground Beef and Cauliflower Bowls
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before roasting. You may need to adjust the roasting time, as frozen florets might take a little longer to get crispy.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick. Just taste as you go to find the perfect level of spice for you!
