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Beef Cauliflower Fried Rice is a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic favorite.
Packed with protein-rich beef, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy cauliflower rice, this dish delivers all the flavors of traditional fried rice without the extra carbs.
Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a lighter meal, this one-pan recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying.
With a perfect balance of savory, garlicky, and slightly nutty flavors, it’s a weeknight dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Cauliflower Fried Rice
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
This recipe replaces traditional rice with cauliflower rice, making it a perfect fit for low-carb and keto lifestyles.
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something fast yet flavorful.
Packed with Protein
With ground beef as the main protein source, this dish will keep you full and satisfied.
Bursting with Flavor
The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil gives this dish an authentic and irresistible taste.
Customizable
Easily swap out the beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu and adjust the veggies to your preference.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef
- 1 pound ground beef (or thinly sliced beef)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
For the Cauliflower Fried Rice
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup peas (optional for low-carb)
- 1/4 cup bell peppers, diced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
- Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of oil and brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles.
- Stir in the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Push the beef to the side of the pan.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few seconds, then scramble and mix with the beef.
Step 4: Cook the Cauliflower Rice
- Add the cauliflower rice, diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers to the pan.
- Stir everything together and cook for 5–7 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture and toss to combine.
- Garnish with green onions and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve with Beef Cauliflower Fried Rice
Pair with a Protein Side
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – Adds a seafood twist that pairs beautifully with the umami flavors of the fried rice.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – A great source of lean protein that complements the dish without overpowering it.
Vegetable Sides for Extra Nutrients
- Steamed Bok Choy with Soy Sauce – A light and flavorful side that balances the richness of the beef.
- Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds crunch and a hint of spice to contrast the soft texture of the cauliflower rice.
A Refreshing Drink Pairing
- Cucumber Lemon Sparkling Water – A refreshing, low-carb beverage to cleanse the palate.
- Iced Green Tea – Light and slightly earthy, making it a great complement to the dish.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a little oil for the best texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent uneven warming.
Meal Prep Tips
- Pre-Chop Ingredients: Dice veggies and prepare the cauliflower rice ahead of time for a quick-cooking meal.
- Batch Cook & Freeze: Make a large batch and freeze portions for easy weeknight meals.
Final Thoughts
Beef Cauliflower Fried Rice is the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice.
It’s quick, delicious, and packed with nutrients while still delivering the classic takeout flavors you love.
Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a healthier dinner option, this recipe is a must-try.
Give it a go, customize it to your liking, and enjoy a satisfying meal with all the flavor and none of the guilt!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes! Frozen cauliflower rice works just as well. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
2. How do I prevent my cauliflower rice from getting mushy?
Avoid overcooking it—sautéing for just 5–7 minutes should keep it tender but not mushy.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the beef for tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
4. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos, which also add a slightly sweet, umami flavor.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or baby spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
Beef Cauliflower Fried Rice
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 wooden spoon (for stirring)
- 1 Knife for chopping vegetables
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups cauliflower rice fresh or frozen
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup bell pepper diced
- 2 eggs beaten
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos for keto
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 2 green onions sliced, for garnish
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Beef
- Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp avocado oil, followed by onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the Cauliflower Rice
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes tender and slightly golden.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
- Push the cauliflower rice to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble until fully cooked.
Step 5: Combine and Season
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat, top with sliced green onions, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a kick.
- Use different proteins: Swap beef with ground turkey, chicken, or shrimp for variety.
- Meal prep tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
