Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s quick to make and packed with nutrition, look no further than this Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet. This one-pan wonder is not only a delicious way to enjoy a classic blend of Mexican flavors, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep session, this skillet dish will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with the lightness of cauliflower, making it a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. The spices create a warm, inviting flavor profile reminiscent of your favorite Mexican dishes, while the addition of fresh vegetables like spinach and bell peppers adds a colorful touch. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking around 30 minutes from start to finish—but it also offers a fantastic way to sneak in more veggies into your family’s diet. Plus, it’s easily adaptable: add more spices for heat, toss in your favorite veggies, or switch up the protein.

What to Buy

• 1 Tbsp avocado oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound ground beef (use lean for a healthier option)
• 1 small head cauliflower, chopped into florets (approximately 4 cups)
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 4 cups baby spinach (optional, but highly recommended)
• ½ cup broth, water, or tomato sauce (for added moisture and flavor)

Equipment Breakdown

• Large Skillet: A sturdy skillet is essential for even cooking and browning the beef.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping your vegetables efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.

Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet in Steps

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping your vegetables. Dice the onion, chop the bell pepper, and cut the cauliflower into small florets. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Avocado oil is perfect for high-heat cooking due to its high smoke point.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and cauliflower florets. Continue to stir for another 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower starts to soften.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it up with your wooden spoon, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 5: Add the Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, and sea salt. Mix everything together, allowing the spices to coat the meat and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Incorporate the Spinach

If using, add the baby spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Add Moisture

Pour in the broth, water, or tomato sauce. Stir everything together, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. This will help to meld the flavors together and create a deliciously savory sauce.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime if desired.

How to Make It Lighter

• Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce fat content.
• Substitute half of the ground beef with additional chopped cauliflower for a lower-calorie option.
• Omit the oil or use a spray oil to further cut down on fat.
• Increase the amount of vegetables to boost fiber and nutrients without adding many calories.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcook the cauliflower; it should be tender but still retain some crunch.
• Avoid using too much liquid initially; you want a skillet, not a soup.
• Don’t skip the spices; they are essential for the authentic flavor.
• Don’t rush the browning of the meat; let it develop a nice crust for better flavor.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you add. Start with the recommended amount, and adjust to your taste preference.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, corn, or black beans to make it even heartier and more nutritious.

What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with rice, tortillas, or a side of guacamole for a complete meal.

Similar Recipes

• Spicy Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
• Vegetable-Stuffed Bell Peppers
• One-Pan Taco Rice
• Zucchini Noodles with Ground Turkey

Serve & Enjoy

Plate your Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet and dig in! The rich flavors, combined with the satisfying textures of the beef and vegetables, create a meal that’s not only good for you but also a delight to your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress.

This Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Cauliflower Skillet is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal clean-up, you can enjoy a delicious meal that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico to your table. So gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and savor every delicious bite!