Are you looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This flavorful cauliflower and ground beef skillet is the perfect solution for busy cooks who crave homemade cooking without sacrificing taste or nutrition. This easy recipe combines the best of both worlds – tender ground beef and nutritious cauliflower, all cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or a satisfying meal for one. Get ready to experience a delicious and healthy dish that's surprisingly simple to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, adds sweetness and color)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Cauliflower and Spices: Add the cauliflower florets, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
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Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious and healthy meal pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the cauliflower: Overcooked cauliflower can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this skillet with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a more filling and nutritious meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Skillet: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Skillet: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Mediterranean Skillet: Add some crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This quick dinner recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy and satisfying meal on the table fast. Enjoy this delicious and versatile cauliflower and ground beef skillet, a true example of simple, healthy, and flavorful food recipes. It’s a guaranteed addition to your list of best recipes! Enjoy!