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Tex-Mex Beef Cauliflower Skillet

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This one-pan Tex-Mex skillet is a bold, flavorful, and low-carb alternative to classic beef and rice dishes. Made with lean ground beef, cauliflower rice, fresh veggies, and Tex-Mex spices, it’s a quick and easy meal ready in under 30 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Skillet:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

For Garnishing:

  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)

Substitutions & Add-Ins:

  • Vegetarian? Swap beef for black beans or lentils.
  • Dairy-Free? Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Add more/less jalapeño & cayenne.
  • Extra Toppings: Try avocado, sour cream, or a fried egg.

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, and jalapeño.
    • Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
  2. Brown the Beef:

    • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon.
    • Cook until browned and no longer pink (5-7 minutes).
    • Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add Seasonings & Tomatoes:

    • Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne.
    • Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the spices bloom.
  4. Incorporate the Cauliflower Rice:

    • Stir in cauliflower rice and cook for 5 minutes, until tender but not mushy.
  • Finish & Serve:

    • Remove from heat and stir in lime juice & fresh cilantro.
    • Sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using) and serve hot.

Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower Rice: It should be tender, not mushy.
  • Let the Spices Bloom: Cooking the seasoning with the beef deepens the flavor.
  • Use High Heat: Helps achieve a great texture and prevents sogginess.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg