Mediterranean Beef & Cauliflower Skillet Bake

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground lamb for a richer flavor)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)

2 medium tomatoes, diced

2 tsp olive oil

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp dried oregano

½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables:
Stir in diced tomatoes and cauliflower rice. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower softens and most of the liquid has reduced.

Layer and Melt:
Once the mixture thickens, spread it evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, covering the mixture fully.

Bake or Melt:

Option 1: Place the skillet under a preheated oven broiler for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Option 2: If not using the oven, cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top before serving.