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A close-up of a loaded chicken burrito bowl with cauliflower rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and sour cream in a white bowl.

Cauliflower Rice Enchilada Bowl

A flavorful and healthy twist on classic enchiladas, this bowl features spiced cauliflower rice topped with a hearty black bean and corn filling, smothered in a zesty homemade enchilada sauce, and finished with fresh garnishes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Cauliflower Rice
  • 1 head cauliflower large, or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch black pepper
For the Enchilada Filling
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion chopped
  • 1 bell pepper any color, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can black beans 15-oz, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • Pinch cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Quick Enchilada Sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 can tomato sauce 8-oz
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For Toppings (Optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 avocado diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Lime wedges

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife
  • Food Processor

Method
 

1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice
  1. If using a whole head of cauliflower, cut it into florets. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Alternatively, use pre-riced cauliflower.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Enchilada Filling
  1. In the same large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rinsed black beans, corn, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Quick Enchilada Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth until smooth. Add the tomato sauce, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp dried oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Enchilada Bowls
  1. Divide the cooked cauliflower rice evenly among 4 serving bowls.
  2. Top the cauliflower rice with a generous scoop of the black bean and corn filling.
  3. Spoon the warm enchilada sauce over the filling.
  4. (Optional) If using cheese, sprinkle the desired amount over the sauce. You can microwave briefly or transfer bowls to a preheated oven (350°F / 175°C) for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish each bowl with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a lime wedge.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Meal Prep: Components can be prepared in advance. Cook the cauliflower rice, filling, and sauce, then store separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or crumbled plant-based meat to the filling for extra protein.