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Crispy Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower Protein Bowls

High-protein bowls featuring crispy roasted cauliflower topped with bold chile-spiced ground beef and customizable toppings. Ready in 45 minutes and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into 1-inch florets
  • 1 lb ground beef preferably 85% lean
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided (1 tbsp for cauliflower, 1 tbsp for beef)
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon chile powder adjust to taste, can use up to 2 tablespoons
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa optional toppings

Equipment

  • oven
  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • large bowl
  • 12-inch skillet
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the florets on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding.
  2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 20 to 25 minutes. Check halfway through and stir to ensure even cooking. Roast until edges are caramelized with dark golden color.
  3. While cauliflower is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir until beef is well browned and fully cooked through, around 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  5. Stir in chile powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let flavors meld and spices bloom.
  6. Remove skillet from heat and stir in juice of one lime and chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
  7. To serve, divide roasted cauliflower among serving bowls, then generously top with crispy chile ground beef.
  8. Add any extra toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Use 85% lean ground beef for best flavor. Cut cauliflower into even 1-inch florets for uniform cooking. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting cauliflower. Fresh lime juice works best for zesty kick. Store beef mixture and cauliflower separately for best results.
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