33 Must-Try Cauliflower Rice Recipes

Cauliflower rice has gained popularity in recent years as a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional rice. Made by grating or processing cauliflower into rice-sized granules, this versatile ingredient is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients.

Benefits of Cauliflower Rice:

1. Low in Calories: With only about 25 calories per cup, cauliflower rice is a great option for those looking to cut back on calories while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

2. High in Nutrients: Cauliflower is a good source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as fiber, making it a nutrient-rich addition to any dish.

3. Low in Carbs: For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute for higher-carb grains like white rice or pasta.

Main Ingredients in Cauliflower Rice Recipes:

Cauliflower: The star ingredient, cauliflower provides the base for these recipes and offers a mild and versatile flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and toppings.

Herbs and Spices: From garlic and onion powder to cumin and paprika, herbs and spices can add depth and complexity to your cauliflower rice dishes.

17 Must-Try Cauliflower Rice Recipes

1. Asian-Inspired Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry Bowls

This recipe brings a taste of Asia to your table with a mix of cauliflower rice, stir-fried veggies, and savory sauces. It’s a quick and easy dish that will satisfy your cravings for Asian cuisine.

Get the full recipe at: winealittlecookalot.com

2. Garlicky Butter Cauliflower Rice with Spinach

This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the earthy flavors of cauliflower rice and spinach. It’s a comforting and wholesome dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Get the full recipe at: Recipe Link

3. Irresistible Cauliflower Rice Arancini Balls

These crispy and cheesy arancini balls are made with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. They are a delightful appetizer or snack that is sure to please a crowd.

Get the full recipe at: Recipe Link

4. Savory Parmesan Pesto Cauliflower Rice

This recipe elevates cauliflower rice to a gourmet level with the addition of parmesan cheese and pesto. The dish is bursting with flavors that will make you forget you’re eating a low-carb alternative.

Get the full recipe at: Recipe Link

5. Cheesy Mexican Cauliflower Rice Casserole

This casserole dish takes cauliflower rice to a whole new level with a mix of Mexican spices and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that will satisfy your Mexican food cravings.

Get the full recipe at: Recipe Link

6. Flavorful Spanish Cauliflower Rice

This Spanish-inspired cauliflower rice dish is a colorful and vibrant alternative to traditional rice. Packed with flavor from tomatoes, peppers, and spices, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.

Get the full recipe at: wendypolisi.com

7. Fresh Caprese Avocado Salad with Cauliflower Rice

This refreshing salad combines the classic flavors of Caprese with creamy avocado and nutritious cauliflower rice. It’s a light and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Get the full recipe at: Recipe Link

8. Zesty Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Zesty Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is a light and flavorful dish perfect as a healthy side or low-carb main course. The cauliflower is finely grated and sautéed with fresh lime juice, zest, and vibrant cilantro, creating a tangy and aromatic profile. This easy-to-make recipe offers a refreshing twist on traditional rice, ideal for those seeking a nutritious and delicious alternative.

Get the full recipe at: deliciouslittlebites.com

9. Spanish Cauliflower Rice

Spanish Cauliflower Rice is a nutritious, low-carb alternative to traditional Spanish rice, bursting with flavor. The finely chopped cauliflower is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, creating a rich and savory dish. Perfect as a side or a main course, this recipe brings the vibrant taste of Spanish cuisine to your table with a healthy twist.

Get the full recipe at: eat with clarity

10. Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice

Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice is a delicious and healthy dish combining tender chicken, fresh pesto, and finely grated cauliflower. The cauliflower rice absorbs the rich flavors of the basil pesto, while the chicken adds protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner that’s both flavorful and low in carbs.

Get the full recipe at: hh-hm.com

11. Spicy Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice by hh-hm.com

12. Italian Sausage Cauliflower Rice Skillet

This flavorful skillet dish combines Italian sausage with cauliflower rice for a hearty, low-carb meal. The ingredients include Italian sausage, cauliflower rice, garlic, diced tomatoes, and Italian herbs.

View the full recipe here

13. Golden Turmeric Cauliflower Rice by sweetpeasandsaffron.com

14. Sausage Pepper Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Enjoy a colorful and delicious skillet featuring sausage, bell peppers, and cauliflower rice. This easy recipe includes ingredients like sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and spices for a satisfying meal.

View the full recipe here

15. Perfect Cauliflower Rice (+ 7 Flavors!)

Learn how to make the perfect cauliflower rice, with seven tasty flavor variations. This versatile base can be paired with any meal and requires just cauliflower and your choice of seasonings, such as garlic, herbs, or spices.

View the full recipe here

16. Mediterranean Cauliflower Rice

This vibrant Mediterranean cauliflower rice is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. Ingredients include cauliflower rice, cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley, and lemon juice, creating a refreshing side dish or base for your favorite proteins.

View the full recipe here

17. Cauliflower Fried Rice with Vegetables

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and bell pepper)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 green onion, chopped
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add mixed vegetables and sauté until tender.
  • Stir in the cauliflower rice, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
  • Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower rice is soft.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with chopped green onion before serving.
• 

18. Cheesy Cauliflower Rice

Indulge in this creamy, cheesy cauliflower rice that serves as a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes. This quick and easy recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 small head of cauliflower (or 2 cups riced cauliflower)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
• Cooking Method:
  • Grate or process cauliflower head into rice-sized pieces.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add riced cauliflower to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk until the mixture is creamy and cheese is melted.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
• 

19. Cauliflower Rice Stuffed Peppers

Cauliflower Rice Stuffed Peppers offer a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish. Perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe combines the nutritious punch of cauliflower rice with the savory goodness of bell peppers.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 large bell pepper, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup cooked ground turkey or beef
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Cooking Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
  3. Add cauliflower rice, tomatoes, cooked meat, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Stuff halved bell peppers with the cauliflower rice mixture.
  5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, removing foil and adding cheese for the last 5 minutes, if desired.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!
• 

20. Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Transform your meals with this fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Perfect as a light side dish or a vibrant base for your favorite proteins, this recipe brings a burst of flavor and a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. Here’s how to make it for two servings:

• 1 small head of cauliflower, grated (or 2 cups of store-bought cauliflower rice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method:

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the cauliflower rice and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender.
• Remove from heat and mix in lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
• Serve warm and enjoy!
• 

21. Spicy Thai Cauliflower Rice

Embark on a culinary adventure with this Spicy Thai Cauliflower Rice. A perfect blend of heat and savory flavors, this dish offers an exciting twist on traditional Thai recipes using nutrient-rich cauliflower as a base. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a vibrant lunch or dinner.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 small red chili, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and peas)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
• Super short cooking method:
  • Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and chili, sauté until fragrant.
  • Stir in cauliflower rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and fish sauce.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Garnish with cilantro and lime juice before serving.
• 

22. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Cauliflower Rice

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter shrimp with the light, nutty taste of cauliflower rice. Perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy meal option, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.

• Ingredients:
  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Introduce the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp is opaque and cooked through.
  • Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter and add the cauliflower rice. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
  • Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing with the cauliflower rice and garnishing with fresh parsley if using.
  • Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

23. Cauliflower Rice Sushi Rolls

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 small head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice
  • 2 sheets of nori (seaweed sheets)
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 carrot, julienned
  • Soy sauce or tamari for dipping
  • Optional: Wasabi and pickled ginger for serving
• Cooking Method:
  • Steam or microwave the cauliflower rice until tender, then allow it to cool completely.
  • Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat or a flat surface.
  • Spread half of the cauliflower rice evenly over the nori, leaving a small edge free at the top.
  • Layer avocado, cucumber, and carrot strips along the bottom edge of the rice.
  • Carefully roll the nori sheet from the bottom, using the mat to assist, to form a tight roll.
  • Seal the edge with a little water if needed, then slice the roll into bite-sized pieces.
  • Repeat with the second sheet and remaining ingredients.
  • Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger if desired.
• 

24. Turmeric Cauliflower Rice Pilaf

Discover the vibrant flavors of Turmeric Cauliflower Rice Pilaf, a delightful dish that brings a burst of color and a touch of spice to your table. Perfect as a side or a light main course, this recipe is both healthy and delicious. Here’s how to make it for two servings:

• 1 small head of cauliflower, riced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Method:

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant.
• Add onions; cook until they become translucent.
• Mix in turmeric, followed by the cauliflower rice and peas.
• Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.
• 

25. Cauliflower Rice and Black Bean Burrito Bowls

Looking for a healthy and satisfying meal that’s both quick and delicious? Try these Cauliflower Rice and Black Bean Burrito Bowls. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 2 cups of cauliflower rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add cauliflower rice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
  • Add black beans and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  • Divide the mixture into two bowls.
  • Top each bowl with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro.

26. Creamy Cauliflower Risotto

• Ingredients:
  • 1 small head cauliflower, riced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  • Add riced cauliflower to the pan, stirring to combine.
  • Pour in vegetable broth and cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the risotto is creamy.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

27. Cauliflower Rice Tabbouleh

Cauliflower Rice Tabbouleh is a fresh and vibrant take on the traditional Middle Eastern salad, featuring the delightful crunch and mild flavor of cauliflower rice. This low-carb dish is perfect for a light lunch or a side for your favorite protein.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking Method:
  • In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and mint.
  • Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
  • Toss well to combine all ingredients.
  • Serve immediately or let chill in the refrigerator for an hour to enhance flavors.
• 

28. Buffalo Cauliflower Rice Bowls

Spice up your meal rotation with these Buffalo Cauliflower Rice Bowls. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they pack a punch of flavor and are incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need and how to make them:

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 small head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice
  • 1 cup of buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Method:

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add cauliflower rice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
• In a separate pan, warm buffalo sauce and add diced celery and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
• Combine cauliflower rice with the buffalo-sauced veggies.
• Divide into bowls and top with crumbled cheese and parsley.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, savory meal!

29. Cauliflower Rice Paella

This Cauliflower Rice Paella is a delightful twist on the classic Spanish dish, offering a low-carb and flavorful alternative. Packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy and satisfying meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup chicken breast, diced
  • 1/4 cup green peas
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add chicken and shrimp, cooking until chicken is browned and shrimp is pink.
  • Stir in saffron, smoked paprika, and cauliflower rice, mixing well.
  • Add bell pepper and peas, cooking until vegetables are tender.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

30. Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry with Chicken

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 200g chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers and peas)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add diced chicken breast to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown.
  • Add mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in cauliflower rice and soy sauce, cooking until the rice is tender and heated through.
  • Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

31. Pineapple Coconut Cauliflower Rice

• 1 cup cauliflower rice
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

In a skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes. Add the pineapple chunks and coconut milk, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

32. Cauliflower Rice Jambalaya

Bring the rich flavors of the classic Creole dish to your table with this easy and healthy Cauliflower Rice Jambalaya. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a delightful blend of spices, shrimp, and chicken sausage that will have you craving more.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 4 oz chicken sausage, sliced
  • 6 shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add chicken sausage, shrimp, onion, and garlic, sauté until shrimp is pink.
  • Add bell pepper, cauliflower rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful jambalaya!

33. Mushroom and Herb Cauliflower Rice

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender.
  • Stir in cauliflower rice and fresh herbs.
  • Season with salt and pepper, then cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Serve warm as a delightful side dish.