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Cheesy Beef and Cauliflower Bake - Comforting, Easy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), cut into small florets
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80–90% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole.
  2. Par-cook the cauliflower: Steam or microwave the florets until just tender but not mushy—about 5–6 minutes. Drain well and pat dry. This prevents a watery bake.
  3. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Push the beef to one side. Add the remaining oil, onion, and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened, then mix with the beef.
  5. Add seasoning and sauce: Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, and chili flakes. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Simmer 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Stir in creaminess: Remove from heat and fold in sour cream. This gives the sauce body and a subtle tang. If it looks too thick, add a splash more broth.
  7. Combine with cauliflower: Add the drained cauliflower to the skillet and gently toss to coat every floret in the beefy sauce.
  8. Assemble the bake: Transfer the mixture to your baking dish. Top with an even layer of cheddar and mozzarella.
  9. Bake: Place in the oven for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges.
  10. Broil for color (optional): Broil 1–2 minutes for a golden top. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
  11. Rest and serve: Let it sit 5–10 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.