Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (2024)

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If you love savory flavors, then you’re really going to adore this ground turkey and cauliflower rice skillet recipe. Perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, and family dinners, this savory dish is ideal for whenever you want something filling and easy to make – it’s packed with protein and is super low-carb!

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (1)

In the mood for meal prep? Let us start by saying just how much we love meal prepping–it’s perfect for whenever you know you’re going to be busy but need meals covered for a few days. Meal prepping is also easy on the wallet and prevents you from spending unnecessary money on take-out and fast food.

Table of Contents

This ground turkey and cauliflower rice recipe are one of our favorite recipes to use for meal prep because the leftovers reheat wonderfully. The cauliflower rice is tender and fluffy and just what you need to balance the savory flavors of the ground turkey. Flavors of cumin, lime, and paprika are combined to create this tasty savory dish.

We love to use cauliflower rice rather than regular rice because it’s rich in fiber, low-carb, and all-around healthier. It takes only a handful of minutes to prepare the rice–just blitz the cauliflower in the food processor and cook until heated through it’s that easy!

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (2)

Why This Cauliflower Rice and Ground Turkey Recipe is the Best

  • Savory and delicious: The tender ground turkey is infused with bright veggies which makes it filled with yummy robust flavors. Honestly, we think the vegetables truly complete this rice bowl recipe!
  • Healthy and loaded with protein: This recipe is low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for whenever you’re wanting something light but hearty. You get additional fiber from the veggies and cauliflower rice so you can feel good about enjoying this meal.
  • Perfect for the family: Even picky eaters will love this ground turkey and cauliflower rice! Prepare this recipe whenever you need a quick dinner ready in about 30 minutes–the best kind of meal!

Ingredients

Oil–We suggest using olive oil for this recipe because it’s great for savory recipes. If you do not have olive oil, then you can use melted coconut oil or any other type of vegetable oil.
Ground turkey– Lean ground turkey is the star of this recipe and is used due to its lower fat content. Ground chicken or beef will also work.
Garlic– Freshly minced garlic is used because of its savoriness and robust elements. Of course, you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
Red onion– For additional fresh savoriness throughout the turkey–it tastes delicious!
Bell pepper– Use any variety of bell pepper for this recipe; we like to use red due to its higher nutritional value.
Cherry tomatoes– Juicy cherry tomatoes complete this ground turkey and cauliflower dish. You can use Roma tomatoes if you do not have cherry or grape tomatoes.
Spices– Oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika provide earthy flavors to the turkey and really make it taste good.
Salt & pepper– Never forget the salt and pepper! For the best fresh flavors, we like to use Himalayan sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.
Cauliflower– One head of cauliflower is needed to create the fluffy cauliflower rice. Be sure the cauliflower is broken into small florets so your food processor can thoroughly chop it up.
Chili flakes– Flavor the recipe with the chili flakes until the desired taste is reached. You can leave the chili flakes out if you would like–especially for the younger crowd!
Lime– Fresh lime is used in this tasty recipe to provide an extra bonus round of flavor. You will need one lime for its juice and zest.
Parsley– What is a recipe without freshly chopped parsley? Cilantro would also work!

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (3)

How To Make This Ground Turkey Cauliflower Skillet

First, measure your ingredients so you have a head start on the recipe. You can never prep too much!

Next, heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, then break it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks and browns.

Cook the ground turkey for above five minutes, then add the minced garlic, diced onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and the spices: oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. Frequently stir the ground turkey as it cooks for three to four minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Meanwhile, place the cauliflower florets into your food processor and blitz until small rice-like bits form. You can work in batches if needed.

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, cauliflower rice, chili flakes, lime juice, and zest. Cook for five to seven minutes while stirring occasionally until the rice is tender. Season the rice to your preferred taste, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley atop the rice.

Serve immediately or store for later!

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (4)

If you’re meal prepping: Divide the rice among four to five glass containers, then add the cooked ground turkey. Cover the containers with lids and place them in the refrigerator for up to five days.

To reheat, place the glass container in the microwave and cook for two minutes or until warm. Enjoy!

Notes and Tips

  • Store the uncooked cauliflower rice in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or in the freezer for six months.
  • Cooked cauliflower rice will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can freeze the cooked rice for six months.
  • Enjoy this meal whenever you need a quick meal at home on your lunch break.
  • Customize this recipe by adding additional veggies to the turkey mixture like zucchini, squash, different colored onions, corn, etc.
Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (5)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cauliflower rice good for weight loss?

Yes, cauliflower rice is great for weight loss because it is packed with fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients.

How do you make riced cauliflower not soggy?

To prevent sogginess, cook the cauliflower rice on high heat with some oil. You can also use a paper towel to absorb all the moisture out of the uncooked cauliflower right before cooking.

How do you get cauliflower taste out of cauliflower rice?

Be sure to season the cauliflower rice with plenty of spices, seasonings, and aromatics so you don’t taste the cauliflower. We like to use plenty of salt and pepper, too.

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (6)

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Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (7)

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Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (8)

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe

If you love savory flavors, then you're really going to adore this ground turkey and cauliflower rice skillet recipe. Perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, and family dinners, this savory dish is ideal for whenever you want something filling and easy to make – it's packed with protein and is super low-carb!

4.89 from 9 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 351kcal

Author: Rena

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs Lean Ground Turkey
  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil divided
  • 1 large Yellow Bell Pepper cut into chunks
  • 2 Garlic Cloves minced or pressed
  • 1 large Red Onion chopped to bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 Cups Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 Teaspoon Cumin Powder
  • 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Chopped Parsley to garnish
  • 1 Large Head of Cauliflower broken into florets
  • 1 Teaspoon Chili Flakes or to your taste
  • 1 Lime juice and zest
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add ground turkey, use a wooden spoon to break up the meat while it cooks. Cook for about 5 minutes, then add in garlic, onions, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and spices.

  • Stir frequently and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper then set aside.

  • Meanwhile, place the cauliflower florets into a food processor and blitz just until small bits forms. You might have to work in batches.

  • In the same heated skillet add remaining oil, cauliflower rice, chili flakes, lime juice, and zest.

  • Cook stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, or until rice is tender. Season to your taste and garnish with fresh parsley.

  • Divide the cauliflower rice among 4-5 glass containers, then add in the ground turkey mixture.

  • Cover with lids and place in the fridge for up 5 days.

  • Before serving heat in the microwave for about 2 minutes. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Store the uncooked cauliflower rice in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or in the freezer for six months.
  • Cooked cauliflower rice will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can freeze the cooked rice for six months.
  • Enjoy this meal whenever you need a quick meal at home on your lunch break.
  • Customize this recipe by adding additional veggies to the turkey mixture like zucchini, squash, different colored onions, corn, etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 351kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 93mg | Sodium: 168mg | Potassium: 1437mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 805IU | Vitamin C: 206.7mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 3.6mg

Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Mention @HealthyFitnessMeals or tag #HealthyFitnessMeals!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mona says

    Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (12)
    How does this have 21 carbs in it?

    Reply

  2. karen wexell says

    Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (13)
    This is delicious, light, fresh, and the lime zest in the cauliflower rice is a perfect compliment to the meal. I may use the left over rice for my poached eggs in the moring.
    Thank you!

    Reply

    • Rena says

      Thanks for the feedback. Glad you liked it.

      Reply

  3. Olivia Green says

    Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (14)
    Thank you for this amazing recipe, Rena!
    I’ve been bulking for almost a year now, trying to gain weight. It has always been regular chicken and rice, which is why I was looking for new recipes. I’m definitely gonna try this turkey cauliflower recipe and get back to you next week when I make it. Thanks.

    Reply

    • Rena says

      Thanks for the feedback! Glad you liked it.

      Reply

  4. Winona Williams says

    Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (15)
    This dish not only looks good but this tastes extraordinary too. It was quite easy to make and my kids loved this a lot. Thanks for this another great recipe.

    Reply

    • Rena says

      Thank you. So glad you guys loved it.

      Reply

    • Letitia Clark says

      Delicious way to use ground turkey. Didn’t have enough fresh tomatoes so added 1/2 can of lime/cilantro Rotel tomatoes. I’ll definitely cook this again❣️

      Reply

Leave A Reply

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep cauliflower rice from getting mushy? ›

How to make Fluffy Cauliflower Rice That Isn't Mushy. *Hint* It's all about the food processor and squeezing out the liquid. In a food processor, add the cauliflower florets and pulse for 30-60 seconds. Add 2-3 cups at a time and remove as it is riced.

Can I eat cauliflower rice every day? ›

While everyone's tolerance is different, too much cauliflower can create G.I. distress, like excess gas and bloating. “Make sure to drink enough water to move it through your system,” suggests Lincoln. Cooking it can also dial back digestion woes.

How do you get the cauliflower taste out of cauliflower rice? ›

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice to help remove any bitterness from the raw cauliflower.

Is cauliflower rice actually healthy? ›

Substituting cauliflower rice for white rice is a great way to get more antioxidants while reducing calories and carbohydrates in order to save room for other nutrient dense foods.

What happens when you eat too much cauliflower? ›

Gastrointestinal Distress and Flatulence

Cauliflower and other cruciferous veggies contain a complex sugar called raffinose. It is hard to break down and is instead fermented by the bacteria in the large intestine. As a result, you may experience bloating and flatulence among other gastric issues.

Is cauliflower rice good for weight loss? ›

Cauliflower has several properties that may help with weight loss. First, it is low in calories with only 27 calories per cup (107 g), so you can eat a lot of it without significantly increasing your calorie intake ( 1 ). It can also serve as a low calorie substitute for high calorie foods, such as rice and flour.

When not to eat cauliflower? ›

Avoid those with brown spots or loose, spread-out sections. Buy a head of cauliflower and separate it into its sections or florets. Or for convenience, purchase a tub of washed, precut florets.

What organ is cauliflower good for? ›

Cauliflower Benefits

Fiber helps maintain healthy digestion, reducing your risk of digestive disorders. It also promotes the growth of good bacteria in your gut. A healthy balance of gut bacteria helps lower inflammation in your body and reduces your risk of heart disease, dementia, and obesity.

Why does cauliflower rice make me gassy? ›

The reason for this is that cauliflower, as well as other cruciferous veggies, such as kale and broccoli, contains raffinose and other oligosaccharides. These are specific types of sugars that remain undigested until bacteria in the gut ferment them, producing gas, and, in turn, causing bloating and gas.

Why does my cauliflower rice smell? ›

Raw Cauliflower Rice

We find that if you turn cauliflower into cauliflower rice and leave it in the fridge for a few days, it develops a strong and unpleasant sulfur smell. So its best to use it right away or freeze it.

Why does cauliflower rice taste sour? ›

While product is hot, you can taste something a bit sour which is the malic acid, a NATURAL product (look it up, it's also used in cosmetics). **Product tastes best after stirred & cooled a little!** Before opening, use hands to squish around contents before opening to mix up the cauliflower.

Can you overcook cauliflower rice? ›

Why is my cauliflower rice soggy? The key to preventing soggy cauliflower rice is making sure you don't overcook it. Once the 'grains' are hot, you're ready to serve. The best cooking method to avoid any sogginess is to roast the cauliflower grains on a wide, shallow tray.

Which is healthier, cauliflower rice or quinoa? ›

Brown rice actually has more selenium (good for heart health) and vitamin B3 (needed for the production of sex and stress hormones) than quinoa, but quinoa is still the healthier choice. Cauliflower rice is a grain-free, gluten-free and nutrient-dense way to replace the white rice on your plate.

What color cauliflower is healthiest? ›

Purple. Purple cauliflower is the healthiest option, with numerous advantages. The purple hue is due to the antioxidants called anthocyanins. These are the pigments present in various other plants and plant-based products, including red cabbage and red wine.

Is cauliflower rice good for belly fat? ›

Yes, because it is rich in dietary fibre and other nutrients like protein and iron, such as cauliflower, it is helpful for weight loss. The mild flavour of cauliflower lends itself to a multitude of cooking methods. In addition, cauliflower rice offers some remarkable health advantages.

How do you keep rice from getting mushy after cooking? ›

Remove the lid of the pot and let the rice cook uncovered. This will allow some of the excess water to evaporate, leaving you with less mushy rice. Drain the excess water from the pot by using a colander or a large spoon. If the rice is still too wet, you can add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the pot.

How do you make firm rice not mushy? ›

Cook the rice without uncovering the pot for 18 minutes. Remove your pan from heat and uncover, placing a kitchen towel (as described above) over pan to keep moisture from dripping onto rice. Cover the pan tightly with lid. Let rice stand, covered, for 15-20 minutes to firm up.

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