Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Protein Bowls Recipe
These Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Protein Bowls are a flavorful and nutritious meal featuring oven-roasted cauliflower and spiced ground beef. With a perfect blend of smoky, spicy seasonings and fresh lime and cilantro, this dish offers a satisfying low-carb, high-protein option ideal for lunch or dinner. Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or salsa for a deliciously vibrant bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (1 tbsp for cauliflower, 1 tbsp for beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning
- 1–2 tablespoons chile powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Finish
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Toppings
- Diced avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread the florets on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. The florets should be golden and have a crispy texture.
- Cook the Beef: While the cauliflower roasts, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and continue stirring until fully cooked and browned, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Season the Beef: Stir in the chile powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Finish the Beef Mixture: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Assemble Your Bowls: Divide the roasted cauliflower among serving bowls, then top each with the crispy chile ground beef mixture.
- Add Toppings: Add any optional toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa as desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the flavorful, protein-packed bowls.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of chile powder and cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- The cauliflower can be substituted with broccoli or other roasted vegetables if preferred.
- To keep it dairy-free, omit cheese and sour cream or use their plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: ground beef bowl, cauliflower bowl, low carb dinner, roasted cauliflower, chile powder beef, protein bowl, easy dinner recipe
