Are you looking for delicious and easy Whole30 recipes that won't leave you feeling deprived? Craving hearty, satisfying meals that are also healthy? Look no further! This ground beef recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that fits perfectly within the Whole30 guidelines. It's a great example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly delicious, making it one of the best recipes for those following a healthy lifestyle.
Zesty Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
This recipe delivers a vibrant and satisfying meal, packed with flavor and perfect for a quick dinner idea. The cauliflower rice adds a healthy twist, making it a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (grass-fed is preferred)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head cauliflower, riced (about 4 cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- 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.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Incorporate Cauliflower Rice: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the cauliflower: Overcooked cauliflower can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Mexican-Inspired: Add a tablespoon of taco seasoning and top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Mediterranean Twist: Omit the chili powder and cayenne pepper. Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (ensure it's compliant with your Whole30 plan), and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on the type of ground beef used) Protein: High in protein Fat: Moderate in fat Carbohydrates: Low in carbohydrates
This zesty ground beef and cauliflower rice skillet is a delicious and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a great example of satisfying and healthy food recipes that are simple to make. This recipe perfectly embodies healthy meals and fits seamlessly into a Whole30 lifestyle. It's one of the best recipes I've found for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and nourishing. Enjoy!