Name: Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet – A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (lean); 1 small head of cauliflower, chopped into florets or riced (about 4 cups); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); ½ avocado, sliced (optional); Sour cream (optional, for serving)

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If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s hearty, packed with flavor, and low-carb, this Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet is for you. It’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender cauliflower, and a mix of bold Tex-Mex spices, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for a busy weeknight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal – Less mess, easy cleanup.
Low-carb and filling – Cauliflower keeps it hearty without the extra carbs.
Bold Tex-Mex flavors – Spiced beef, a touch of heat, and melty cheese.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the key ingredients—full list is below!

Ground beef – Lean beef for a rich and meaty flavor.
Cauliflower – Chopped into small florets or riced for a lighter texture.
Bell peppers & onions – Add sweetness and crunch.
Garlic & spices – A mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Diced tomatoes & green chilies – Brings a slight kick and extra flavor.
Cheese – A melty layer of cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Toppings – Fresh cilantro, avocado, and sour cream for serving.

Step-by-Step Directions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Sauté the Veggies

Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Cauliflower and Spices

Stir in the cauliflower, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in Tomatoes and Green Chilies

Pour in the diced tomatoes and green chilies. Mix well and let everything simmer until the cauliflower is tender.

Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover for a few minutes until melted.

Serve with Toppings

Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use riced cauliflower – If you want a texture closer to traditional rice.
Make it spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Let the flavors blend – Simmer for a few extra minutes to deepen the flavor.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap the beef – Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Make it dairy-free – Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Add beans – If you’re not watching carbs, black beans make a great addition.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

With warm tortillas – Serve in lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
As a taco filling – Perfect inside crunchy taco shells.
With a side of guacamole – Adds a creamy, cooling contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts.
Freezing – Freezes well for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes! Just thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to make this spicier?

Add fresh jalapeños, more chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Turkey works just as well with the Tex-Mex seasoning.

How do I keep the cauliflower from getting mushy?

Cook it just until tender—don’t overcook it, or it will get too soft.

Conclusion

This Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet is the perfect balance of bold flavors, hearty texture, and easy prep. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a delicious one-pan meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet – A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder

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This Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s packed with bold flavors, hearty ground beef, and tender cauliflower. It’s a low-carb, protein-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights, featuring Tex-Mex spices, melty cheese, and customizable toppings like avocado and sour cream. Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup!

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Brown the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Sauté the Veggies – Add olive oil, then stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Season and Add Cauliflower – Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the cauliflower and cook for another 5 minutes.
Stir in Tomatoes and Simmer – Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
Melt the Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until melted.
Serve – Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot

Notes

Make it spicier – Add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Dairy-free option – Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Substitutions – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
For a softer cauliflower – Let it simmer a few extra minutes.