Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice is a low-carb, keto-friendly dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. With seasoned ground beef, tender cauliflower rice, and melty cheese, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone looking for a lighter taco-style dinner.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefcauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)taco seasoningdiced tomatoes (drained)oniongarlicshredded cheddar cheeseolive oilsalt and peppercilantro (optional for garnish)sour cream (optional for serving)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes, mixing well to combine.

Add cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat to low, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.

Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for a creamy finish.

Mix in black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition (note: not low-carb).

Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.This dish also freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice

FAQs

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it suitable for keto diets.

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Absolutely. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking.

How can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the mix.

Do I need to cook the cauliflower rice separately?

No, it cooks directly in the skillet with the beef and absorbs all the flavors.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely! It reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with a side salad, guacamole, or low-carb tortillas.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use plant-based ground meat and skip the beef.

How do I prevent the cauliflower rice from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking and drain any excess moisture from thawed cauliflower rice.

Can I add extra cheese?

Of course! Add as much cheese as you like for extra gooeyness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings all the bold flavors of tacos in a wholesome, low-carb format. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for weeknight dinners and meal prep alike.

Print

Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice

Cheesy Taco Ground Beef & Cauliflower Rice

A hearty, low‑carb one‑pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, flavorful cauliflower rice and melty cheese—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

  • Author: Mollyyeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Tex‑Mex

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning (store‑bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican‑blend cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, avocado, sour cream, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly soft.
  2. Add ground beef; cook breaking up with a spoon until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes until cauliflower is tender, stirring occasionally.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover again and cook 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from heat. Let rest 1–2 minutes. Serve topped with cilantro, green onions, avocado, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Notes

  • For extra veggies, stir in 1 cup black beans or corn—adjust carbs accordingly.
  • To make it spicy, add chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Meal‑prep option: Divide into airtight containers; refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Switch up the cheese—pepper jack or cotija work nicely for variation.
  • For stovetop only, skip the cover and stir more frequently to prevent burning.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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