This Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet is the ultimate quick and healthy dinner solution — packed with protein, loaded with veggies, and ready in under 25 minutes. It’s a low-carb, one-pan wonder perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or when you want something light yet satisfying. Juicy ground turkey, tender cauliflower rice, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs come together in a simple skillet recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve been making this dish on repeat, especially during weeks when I want to eat lighter without feeling like I’m missing out. Much like my Asian Turkey Power Bowls with Sesame Slaw, it’s fast, fresh, and full of flavor — plus, it all cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash.
Light and filling
The cauliflower rice keeps the carbs low while still providing that satisfying “grain” texture, just like in my Greek Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps that swap bread for crisp lettuce leaves.
Endless customization
You can easily add more vegetables, spices, or sauces to fit your tastes — making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground turkey – Lean protein base.
- Olive or avocado oil – For sautéing.
- Yellow onion – Diced for sweetness and flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Minced for aromatic depth.
- Cauliflower rice – Fresh or frozen, for a grain-free base.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro – For brightness.
- Paprika – Adds mild smokiness.
- Salt & pepper – To taste.
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for a zesty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep ingredients
Dice 1 medium onion, mince 3 garlic cloves, and chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. Cook the turkey
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes.
3. Add aromatics
Stir in the onion and cook 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add cauliflower rice
Stir in 4 cups cauliflower rice and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.
5. Season and finish
Stir in 1 tsp paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Squeeze in juice from half a lemon and toss in fresh parsley or cilantro.
6. Serve
Serve immediately, or divide into containers for meal prep. This dish is great hot or at room temperature.
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Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet is a light, flavorful, low-carb dinner ready in just 25 minutes. Packed with lean protein, tender cauliflower rice, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s a quick one-pan recipe perfect for busy nights or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Juice from 1/2 lemon
Instructions
1. Dice onion, mince garlic, and chop fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart, until no longer pink.
3. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
4. Stir in cauliflower rice and cook 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.
5. Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and stir in fresh herbs.
6. Serve immediately or divide into containers for meal prep.
Notes
Avoid overcooking cauliflower rice for best texture.
Add a splash of chicken broth if the skillet feels dry.
Top with a fried egg for extra protein and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet, Low Carb Ground Turkey Recipes, One-Pan Turkey Dinner
Pro Tips for the Best Cauliflower Rice Skillet
- Don’t overcook cauliflower rice — it should remain slightly firm for the best texture.
- Add a splash of chicken broth if the skillet seems dry.
- For a heartier dish, top with a fried egg before serving.
Variations
Mexican-style
Add cumin, chili powder, and diced bell peppers for a Tex-Mex twist.
Asian-inspired
Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for a quick fried rice feel.
Cheesy comfort
Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy skillet version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup like my One-Pot Ground Turkey Lasagna Soup for a complete meal.
Nutrition Snapshot
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 27g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 15g |
FAQ – Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, but thaw it slightly and drain excess moisture before adding to the skillet.
How long does it keep?
Up to 4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but for best texture, reheat gently and add fresh herbs after thawing.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan dinner you’ll want in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re watching carbs or just looking for a fresh dinner idea, it’s as easy as it is delicious.