Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This ground beef and cauliflower recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect weeknight meal. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s both delicious and surprisingly simple. This recipe offers a delightful blend of savory ground beef and nutritious cauliflower, creating a satisfying and healthy dish that's perfect for those busy weeknights. It's one of the best recipes for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 large head of cauliflower, riced (or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cauliflower: If using a whole head of cauliflower, you can rice it yourself using a food processor or grater. Alternatively, you can buy pre-riced cauliflower from the grocery store to save time. This is a key step for achieving the right texture in this easy recipe.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your healthy meal.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This is crucial for a less greasy and healthier final dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the riced cauliflower, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking process ensures the cauliflower is perfectly tender while allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: Serve immediately, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. This simple addition elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- If the mixture becomes too dry during cooking, add a splash of water or beef broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. This is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into a quick dinner.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian sausage or lentils.
Variations:
- Cheesy Beef and Cauliflower Bake: Transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. This is a delicious alternative for a more comforting meal.
- Taco-Spiced Beef and Cauliflower: Add taco seasoning instead of oregano and basil for a Mexican-inspired twist. Top with your favorite taco toppings! This is a fun way to mix up your weeknight routine with a flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This ground beef and cauliflower recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on flavor or health. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights, and it's easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!