It is cold outside and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is warm and filling. This ground beef cauliflower skillet is the perfect solution for a chilly evening.
It delivers pure comfort without any of the heavy carbs. You can have this high-protein dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. It is simple, fresh, and so satisfying.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a lifesaver for a healthy reset after a busy week. You only need one pan for the entire meal. This means you spend less time cleaning up the kitchen. It is packed with protein to keep everyone full.
Your kids will love the gooey, melted cheese on top. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a group of four. Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these tender cauliflower bites.
Simple Method
This meal comes together quickly with very little effort. You start by browning the beef and onions together. Then, you let the cauliflower steam right in the same pan. It is beginner-friendly and very hard to mess up.
What You Need
You likely have most of these pantry staples in your kitchen already.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking Steps
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and diced onion.
- Cook until beef is browned and onion is translucent, approximately 7-8 minutes, breaking the meat into small crumbles.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano; stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cauliflower florets and beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Cover for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm right from the skillet for a rustic family meal. It looks beautiful with a sprinkle of fresh green parsley. You could pair it with a simple side salad. It also tastes great with a dollop of sour cream. Set the table and enjoy a cozy night in.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay delicious for up to four days. This recipe is excellent for meal prep lunches. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Save time by making a double batch!
Tips for Best Results
- Cut cauliflower into small, even pieces for fast cooking.
- Don’t skip browning the beef for the best savory flavor.
- Use a tight-fitting lid to steam the cauliflower perfectly.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy winter kick.
- Use fresh garlic to make the dish extra aromatic.
- Make this on a busy Tuesday to reduce your stress.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add bell peppers for extra color and a crunch.
- Try ground turkey for a leaner, lighter protein option.
- Stir in a little heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy seasonal variation.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen florets to save time. Just reduce the beef broth by half. Frozen vegetables release more water as they cook.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely, this is a perfect low-carb meal. It is naturally high in protein and healthy fats. It fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle.
I hope this skillet brings warmth to your kitchen today. It is such a simple way to nourish your family. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tsp sal t
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and diced onion.
- Cook until beef is browned and onion is translucent, approximately 7-8 minutes, breaking the meat into small crumbles.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano; stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cauliflower florets and beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Cover for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
