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Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey

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This Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey is a flavorful, low-carb meal that’s packed with protein and bold spices. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep or a healthy weeknight dinner. With tender ground turkey, spicy seasonings, and riced cauliflower, this dish is satisfying while keeping things light and nutritious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Low-Carb & High-Protein – A healthy and filling meal without excess carbs.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes!
  • Spicy & Flavorful – Bold seasonings make every bite exciting.
  • One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup for a stress-free dinner.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground turkey (lean)
  • Cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • Olive oil
  • Onion (diced)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Jalapeño or red chili flakes (for heat)
  • Bell pepper (diced)
  • Tomato paste
  • Chicken or vegetable broth
  • Cumin
  • Smoked paprika
  • Chili powder
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Fresh lime juice (for brightness)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Avocado slices for creaminess
  • Crumbled feta or cotija cheese for extra flavor
  • Hot sauce for extra spice
  • Sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for added veggies

Directions

Cook the Ground Turkey:

  1. Heat Oil – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté Onion & Garlic – Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2 minutes).
  3. Cook Turkey – Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season the Meat – Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

Add the Veggies & Cauliflower Rice:

  1. Add Peppers & Tomato Paste – Stir in bell peppers, jalapeño, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  2. Mix in Cauliflower Rice – Add the riced cauliflower and broth, stirring well.
  3. Simmer – Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Finish & Serve:

  1. Add Lime Juice – Stir in fresh lime juice for extra flavor.
  2. Garnish & Enjoy – Top with fresh cilantro and serve warm!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Mild Version – Skip the jalapeño and use mild chili powder.
  • Mexican-Style – Add black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex twist.
  • Thai-Inspired – Use ginger, coconut aminos, and a splash of sriracha.
  • Cheesy Cauliflower Rice – Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra creaminess.
  • Keto Version – Add more healthy fats like avocado or butter.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of riced cauliflower?

Yes! Just pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-sized.

How do I make this spicier?

Add extra jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.

What can I serve with this dish?

Try a side salad, avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the spice.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground turkey with crumbled tofu or black beans.

How do I keep cauliflower rice from getting soggy?

Cook it uncovered to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes! Just cook a few extra minutes to remove excess water.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! Feta, cotija, or shredded cheddar all work great.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and keto-approved.

Can I use different seasonings?

Yes! Try Cajun, taco, or curry seasoning for a new flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week! Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner, meal prep option, or something with a little spice, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal!

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Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey

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This Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey is a hearty, one-pan meal made with seasoned ground turkey, sautéed cauliflower rice, and a kick of spice. It’s a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes and can be made in under 30 minutes!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Healthy

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (for brightness)
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional, for serving)

 

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

  1. Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Add tomato paste and mix well to coat the turkey in the spices.

Step 3: Cook the Cauliflower Rice

  1. Pour in chicken broth and add cauliflower rice. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
  2. Add lime juice and stir one last time.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
  2. Serve with avocado slices and extra lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Want more heat? Add extra hot sauce or more cayenne!
  • Make it cheesy: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese before serving.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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