There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a delicious, colorful meal in one pan—and even better when it’s both healthy and full of bold flavor. That’s exactly what this Spiced Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Bowl is all about. It’s hearty, balanced, and packed with vibrant spices that turn basic ingredients into something truly crave-worthy. If you’ve ever found yourself standing in front of your fridge wondering what to make with that lonely pack of ground turkey or that head of cauliflower, this recipe is your answer.
This dish came about on one of those busy weeknights when time is tight, but the craving for something nourishing and flavorful is strong. I was staring at a small collection of ingredients—some ground turkey, a bell pepper, a carrot, and half a head of cauliflower. Honestly, it didn’t look like much at first glance. But then I thought: what if I amped things up with some spices and turned it into a warm, veggie-packed rice bowl? A few tweaks and a little heat later, this dish was born—and it’s been on regular rotation ever since.
What makes this turkey and cauliflower rice bowl so special isn’t just the way it tastes (though it’s smoky, savory, slightly spicy, and a little sweet from the bell peppers), but how easy it is to pull together. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a win whether you’re cooking for yourself, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a family. With everything done in just one pan, cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and can be made halal-friendly without any modifications.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a reliable weeknight favorite, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals. It’s comforting without being heavy, exciting without being complicated, and most of all—so darn satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This spiced turkey rice Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this spiced turkey and cauliflower rice bowl, and the first one has to be its incredible flavor profile. Thanks to a blend of warming spices like cumin, turmeric, paprika, and coriander, this dish brings a rich, layered taste that hits all the right notes. It’s slightly smoky, perfectly spiced, and has just enough kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming your palate. And if you love a bit of heat, those pickled jalapeños add the perfect pop.
Beyond flavor, this meal is a dream in terms of ease and convenience. The entire dish comes together in just one pan, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to spend more time relaxing and less time doing dishes. Everything cooks relatively quickly, and most of the time is completely hands-off. You’ll cook your turkey first, season it with fragrant spices and garlic, then toss in your veggies and cauliflower rice to soak up all that delicious flavor. It’s that simple.
Another reason this recipe shines is its flexibility. You can easily tweak it based on what you have in the fridge. No red bell pepper? Use green or yellow. Out of carrots? Toss in some zucchini or even peas. Want to go vegetarian? Swap the turkey for chickpeas or lentils, and you’re good to go. It’s also great for meal prep. This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge and reheats like a charm, making it a perfect make-ahead option for lunch or dinner.
Lastly, this bowl is nutrient-dense and filling, thanks to the lean protein from the turkey and the fiber from the veggies and cauliflower rice. You’ll feel full and energized after eating it, not sluggish or overly stuffed. If you’re trying to eat more balanced meals without sacrificing flavor, this is the recipe for you.
Health Benefits of this spiced turkey rice
One of the most rewarding things about this turkey and cauliflower rice bowl is how nutritious it is without ever feeling like a “diet” meal. It’s full of real, whole-food ingredients that support your health in meaningful ways, while still delivering big on taste.
Let’s start with the ground turkey. Lean ground turkey is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which helps keep you full and supports everything from muscle repair to hormone balance. It’s naturally low in fat—especially if you go with a lean variety—and packed with nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are all essential for energy production and immune function.
Next up is the cauliflower rice, a fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional rice. Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, both of which help your body fight inflammation and support bone health. It also provides fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, because it’s naturally low in calories, it’s a great base for hearty dishes like this without weighing you down.
The carrots and red bell peppers not only add a pop of color and natural sweetness to the dish but also offer a serious nutrition boost. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, an antioxidant your body converts into vitamin A, which is crucial for vision and skin health. Red bell peppers, on the other hand, are rich in vitamin C—one serving of this dish can give you well over your daily recommended intake.
The spices aren’t just for flavor either. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Cumin aids digestion and can even help with blood sugar control. Paprika and red pepper flakes are full of antioxidants that promote overall well-being, and garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting and heart-protective properties.
Altogether, this dish is a shining example of how you can eat well, feel satisfied, and give your body the nutrients it needs—all in one delicious, one-pan meal.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of this spiced turkey rice
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s quickly go over how much time you’ll need and what you can expect in terms of servings and nutrition. Spoiler alert: this dish is not only fast and flavorful but also light on calories and packed with good-for-you nutrients.
Preparation Time: You’ll only need about 10 minutes of prep time for this recipe. That includes chopping your veggies and measuring out your spices. The cooking process takes another 15–20 minutes, so from start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes total—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Servings: This recipe makes about 2 generous servings as a main dish, or you can easily stretch it to 3 smaller portions if you’re serving it with sides. It’s also incredibly easy to double if you’re cooking for a larger family or meal prepping for the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: Variable based on added salt and pickled jalapeños
Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use. If you’re watching your sodium intake, for example, you can use low-sodium pickled jalapeños or reduce the added salt. If you’re looking to increase healthy fats, a drizzle of extra olive oil or a topping of avocado would be great additions.
Now that you have a clear sense of what you’re working with, let’s move on to the ingredients list to make sure your kitchen is stocked and ready.
Ingredients List of this spiced turkey rice
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this spicy, savory, veggie-loaded turkey and cauliflower rice bowl. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, and you’ll find that the fresh items are all easy to swap if needed.
Protein:
- 6 oz (180g) ground turkey – This is the heart of the dish. It’s lean, flavorful, and provides a great base for soaking up all the spices.
Vegetables:
- 3 cups cauliflower rice – You can either rice a small head of cauliflower in a food processor or use store-bought pre-riced cauliflower to save time.
- 1 carrot, chopped – Adds natural sweetness and crunch.
- ½ red bell pepper, chopped – Offers vibrant color and a mild, sweet flavor.
Spices:
- ½ teaspoon turmeric – Gives a warm, earthy depth and that signature golden hue.
- 2 teaspoons paprika, divided – Adds a subtle smokiness. One teaspoon goes into the turkey mixture, the other into the veggie mix.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – Earthy and aromatic, cumin is a must for rounding out the spice blend.
- ½ teaspoon coriander – Bright and citrusy, it lifts the whole dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and a little bite.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Brings the heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Other Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeños (optional) – For an extra tangy-spicy kick. Highly recommended if you love bold flavors.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (divided) – Garlic adds depth and that savory umami note.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – Used for sautéing and adding richness.
- Salt, to taste – Season to your preference at the final stage.
- Optional fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) – For a bright, fresh finishing touch.
With all these flavorful elements, you’re setting yourself up for a dish that’s bold, balanced, and incredibly satisfying. Up next, we’ll walk through exactly how to bring it all together.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this spiced turkey rice
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s walk through this recipe step-by-step. One of the best parts about this dish is how simple it is to make. Even if you’re not super confident in the kitchen, you’ll find this process straightforward and easy to follow. We’ll start with cooking the turkey, then move on to layering in all those wonderful spices and veggies. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a warm, flavorful bowl that tastes like you spent much more time on it than you actually did.
Step 1: Gather and prep your ingredients
Before you turn on the stove, it’s a good idea to have everything ready to go. This makes the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable. Start by finely chopping your carrot and red bell pepper. Mince all four of your garlic cloves and divide them—one will go in with the turkey, and the other three will be added later. If you’re using a fresh head of cauliflower, rice it now using a food processor or box grater. You should end up with about three cups of riced cauliflower. If you’re using store-bought cauliflower rice, measure out the same amount.
Also, go ahead and portion out your spices. Having them ready to sprinkle in when the time comes will make everything go more quickly and efficiently.
Step 2: Cook the ground turkey
Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add your ground turkey along with about ⅓ cup of water. This water will help keep the turkey moist as it cooks and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the turkey to cook for about 4–5 minutes. It should be mostly cooked through by the end of this time. If it’s not completely browned, don’t worry—we’ll finish cooking it with the spices in the next step.
Remove the lid and give the turkey a good stir to break it up into crumbles. It should be tender and juicy at this stage, not dry or overcooked.
Step 3: Add spices and garlic to flavor the turkey
Now it’s time to bring in the flavor. Add the following to your turkey:
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (you can scale this down if you prefer a milder flavor)
- 1 minced garlic clove
Stir everything together well so the turkey is fully coated in the spices. You’ll notice the meat take on a deeper, richer color, thanks to the paprika and turmeric. Let the mixture cook uncovered for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The water should evaporate, allowing the turkey to slightly brown and soak up all those aromatic spices.
Step 4: Add chopped veggies
Now that your turkey is flavorful and almost fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add your chopped carrot and red bell pepper to the pan. These vegetables bring a sweet, crunchy contrast to the savory spiced meat.
Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help the veggies sauté and release their natural sweetness. Stir to combine everything evenly, making sure the veggies get a little coated with the spices already in the pan.
Let them cook for about 2 minutes, just enough to start softening but not too long that they become mushy.
Step 5: Add cauliflower rice and more flavor
Time to bring in your cauliflower rice. Add it directly to the pan along with:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Stir everything thoroughly so the cauliflower rice mixes well with the turkey and veggies. The cauliflower will begin to soften and absorb the flavors of the dish. If your cauliflower rice is fresh, it will release a little bit of moisture, which helps keep the dish from drying out. If you’re using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure it’s thawed and patted dry to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy.
Cover the pan and let everything steam together for about 3–4 minutes. This gives the cauliflower time to cook through and become tender, without turning to mush.
Step 6: Finish the dish with garlic and jalapeños
Now that everything is nicely cooked and combined, remove the lid and add your finishing touches.
Stir in the remaining 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This may seem like a lot of garlic, but trust me—it gives the dish that final punch of savory flavor that really brings it all together. The olive oil adds a little richness, helping to carry the spices and round out the texture.
At this point, if you’re using pickled jalapeños, toss them in. They add a tangy heat that elevates the dish and cuts through the richness beautifully. Even just a tablespoon makes a big difference in flavor.
Stir for another 2 minutes uncovered, allowing the garlic to cook slightly and the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust for salt if needed.
Step 7: Serve hot and garnish (optional)
Your turkey and cauliflower rice bowl is now ready to serve! Spoon it into bowls while it’s still hot. If you like, top it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. You could also add a few extra jalapeños or a squeeze of lemon juice if you like a bit more acidity.
At this stage, you’ll have a steaming bowl of spicy, savory, veggie-packed goodness ready to enjoy. The texture should be hearty but not heavy, with tender turkey, slightly crisp veggies, and cauliflower rice that’s soaked up all the spices. It’s comforting, nourishing, and oh-so-delicious.
You can also double or triple this recipe if you’re meal prepping—it reheats well and only gets more flavorful the next day.
How to Serve this spiced turkey rice
One of the things I love most about this dish is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you’re eating it straight from the skillet or dressing it up with a few extras, there are lots of ways to enjoy this spiced turkey and cauliflower rice bowl.
The simplest and most satisfying way to serve it is just as is, hot from the pan into a bowl. The flavors are already balanced and full-bodied, so you don’t need much else. That said, a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro goes a long way in adding a layer of brightness and freshness to the dish. It also makes the bowl look as good as it tastes.
If you’re feeling a little extra, you can top it with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or labneh for a creamy, tangy contrast that cools down the spice. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving also enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely zing.
This bowl also plays really well with other dishes. For instance, you could serve it:
- Wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla or lettuce wrap for a hand-held version.
- Alongside a small bowl of hummus or a chopped cucumber salad for a Mediterranean-style spread.
- Over a bed of baby spinach or arugula to turn it into a warm salad.
- Topped with a fried or poached egg, especially for breakfast or brunch.
Kids may enjoy it with a drizzle of mild yogurt sauce or even inside a warm pita pocket. However you serve it, this dish delivers a satisfying mix of protein, veggies, and spice in every single bite.
Let’s move on to some thoughtful pairings that make this meal even more complete.
Pairing Suggestions for this spiced turkey rice
While this Spiced Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Bowl is a complete meal all on its own, sometimes it’s nice to round out your plate (or table) with some thoughtful pairings. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, packing a wholesome lunch, or just craving a little extra variety, these suggestions will help you turn this simple bowl into a well-balanced, satisfying spread.
Let’s start with some light and refreshing sides. Because the main dish is warm and spiced, pairing it with something cool and crisp adds contrast and balance. A simple cucumber-tomato salad tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt can really brighten the meal. You could also try a chopped parsley salad with diced red onion and a touch of vinegar—it’s simple, herbaceous, and a perfect match for the spices in the turkey.
If you want something heartier, consider serving it with a roasted vegetable medley. Think about tossing zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and roasting them until golden. Their sweetness and depth will complement the dish beautifully.
Craving something creamy to cool things down? A small bowl of plain yogurt or a yogurt-based dip like tzatziki adds a soothing touch and can be used as a topping or a side. Not only does it help mellow out the spice, but it also adds extra protein and richness.
Now let’s talk about drinks. Since we’re keeping things halal and wholesome, skip the wine and opt for a sparkling water infused with lemon or mint. If you’re in the mood for something more festive, a chilled glass of homemade mint lemonade or even a lightly sweetened hibiscus tea would be refreshing and complement the bold spices in the dish.
For a more filling meal, especially for guests or a larger family dinner, consider pairing it with soft flatbread or pita wedges. They’re perfect for scooping up the last bits of turkey and cauliflower rice and turn this bowl into a finger-friendly feast.
Whatever you choose, the key is balance. Pair bold spices with refreshing sides, rich protein with crisp greens, and warm elements with cooling accompaniments. This way, every bite feels thoughtful and complete.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions of this spiced turkey rice
If you’re like me and love having healthy, flavorful meals on hand during the week, this turkey and cauliflower rice bowl is going to become a lifesaver. Not only does it store beautifully, but it also reheats well—meaning it’s a perfect make-ahead option whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers from dinner.
Storing in the Refrigerator
Once cooked, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to retain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
If you’re packing this for lunch, divide it into individual portions in meal prep containers. That way, you’ve got grab-and-go lunches ready without any extra work.
Freezing for Later
This dish also freezes surprisingly well. To freeze, portion the fully cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing to help prevent freezer burn.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply move a portion to the fridge overnight. For quicker results, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored meal, you have a couple of options for reheating:
Stovetop: Add a splash of water or a little olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps revive the texture and keeps it from drying out.
Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a lid or damp paper towel, and heat for 1–2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Tip: If the dish seems a bit dry after reheating, just add a little squeeze of lemon juice or a small spoonful of yogurt on top. It’ll bring the moisture and flavor right back.
Proper storage and reheating not only save time but also make sure none of this delicious meal goes to waste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this spiced turkey rice
Even though this recipe is super approachable, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these will help ensure your dish comes out perfect every single time.
1. Not seasoning the turkey properly
It’s easy to assume that the vegetables and cauliflower rice will carry the flavor, but the turkey is the backbone of this dish. If it’s under-seasoned, everything else will taste flat. Be sure to use all the spices listed and stir them in thoroughly while the turkey is still cooking so they can bloom and infuse the meat.
2. Overcooking the cauliflower rice
Cauliflower rice cooks quickly—much faster than traditional grains. Overcooking it can make the texture mushy and watery. Once it’s tender, stop cooking and move on to the finishing steps. Keeping the cauliflower rice slightly firm gives the bowl a nice texture contrast.
3. Using wet or frozen cauliflower rice without drying it
If you’re using frozen cauliflower rice, it’s essential to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the pan. Otherwise, you’ll end up with excess water in the dish, diluting the spices and turning everything soggy.
4. Skipping the final garlic and olive oil
It might seem like an optional step, but that extra garlic and olive oil at the end really pulls everything together. It adds a burst of fresh, rich flavor that lifts the whole bowl. Don’t skip it unless absolutely necessary.
5. Overcrowding the pan
If you’re doubling the recipe, make sure your skillet or pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding. If the pan is too full, the ingredients will steam instead of sauté, and you’ll miss out on those flavorful, slightly crispy bits.
Avoiding these small but common mistakes will help your dish turn out perfectly seasoned, wonderfully textured, and utterly delicious every time.
Pro Tips
Want to take your turkey and cauliflower rice bowl to the next level? Here are a few pro tips that can elevate the flavor, texture, and overall experience of this dish.
1. Toast the spices
Before adding the ground turkey, try heating the spices in a bit of olive oil for 30 seconds. This technique, known as blooming, helps release the essential oils in the spices, making the flavors more aromatic and vibrant.
2. Add texture with toppings
For a satisfying crunch, consider topping your finished bowl with a handful of toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. A spoonful of crispy chickpeas or even crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios can also work beautifully.
3. Use fresh garlic at two stages
Adding garlic in two stages—once early and once at the end—gives the dish complexity. The garlic added early mellows out during cooking, while the fresh garlic at the end gives a sharp, fragrant kick that really wakes up the whole bowl.
4. Make it creamy
If you’re in the mood for a richer texture, stir in a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative just before serving. It adds creaminess and helps temper the spice without overpowering the dish.
5. Double and freeze in individual portions
This dish is freezer-friendly and tastes just as good when reheated, so make a double batch and portion it into freezer containers for easy, ready-made meals. Just remember to thaw properly and stir in a little olive oil before reheating to refresh the flavors.
6. Finish with acid
A small splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end can balance the richness of the turkey and the depth of the spices. It lifts everything and adds a subtle brightness that makes each bite feel fresh and complete.
These little tricks may seem small, but they add up to a big difference in flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to new recipes—especially ones with unique ingredients or bold spices—it’s totally normal to have a few questions. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this spiced turkey and cauliflower rice bowl, along with clear, helpful answers to guide you through any uncertainties.
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey and works just as well in this recipe. It has a similar texture and flavor, though it may be slightly leaner. Just be sure not to overcook it, as ground chicken can dry out quickly.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, swap the ground turkey for canned lentils, black beans, or even crumbled tofu. Chickpeas also work beautifully and absorb the spices well. Just be sure to sauté your plant-based protein with the same spice mix to keep the flavor consistent.
3. Do I have to use pickled jalapeños?
Not at all. Pickled jalapeños are optional, but they add a really nice tangy-spicy flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave them out completely or use a milder alternative like pickled banana peppers or a squeeze of lemon.
4. Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, frozen cauliflower rice is perfectly fine for this recipe. However, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet. This prevents excess moisture from watering down the dish and keeps your final texture fluffy instead of soggy.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat, barley, or rye. Just double-check your spice blends and pickled jalapeños to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives, especially if you have a sensitivity or allergy.
6. How spicy is this dish?
The dish has a noticeable kick from the crushed red pepper flakes and jalapeños, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and jalapeños. You can always add heat later if needed.
7. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Definitely. You can chop your vegetables and mix your spice blend in advance to make cooking even faster. You can also cook the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days—it reheats beautifully.
8. What pan is best for this recipe?
A large non-stick or stainless-steel skillet works best. If you’re using a stainless-steel pan, make sure it’s well-heated and oiled to prevent sticking. A cast-iron skillet also adds a nice depth of flavor if you have one on hand.
9. Can I make this recipe in bulk for meal prep?
Yes, this is an excellent meal prep recipe. You can double or triple the quantities and portion them into individual containers for the week. Just make sure to cool everything completely before sealing and refrigerating.
10. What should I do if the cauliflower rice gets too watery?
If you find that your cauliflower rice is releasing too much liquid, turn the heat to medium-high and cook uncovered for a few more minutes to allow the excess moisture to evaporate. You can also pre-sauté the cauliflower rice separately to remove moisture before adding it to the main pan.
These FAQs should give you the confidence to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re adjusting the spice level, swapping out ingredients, or prepping for the week, there’s plenty of room to customize without compromising flavor.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something so deeply satisfying about a meal that checks all the boxes: easy to make, healthy, packed with flavor, and perfect for any day of the week. This spiced turkey and cauliflower rice bowl is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s bold and comforting, simple yet impressive, and flexible enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables, looking for new ways to enjoy lean protein, or just need a go-to dish that doesn’t take an hour to pull together, this recipe has your back. From the warmth of the cumin and paprika to the brightness of fresh garlic and herbs, every bite is layered with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just satisfy your hunger but leaves you feeling energized and good about what you’ve eaten.
And let’s not forget how meal-prep friendly this recipe is. It stores and reheats like a dream, making it ideal for busy workdays or lazy evenings when you want something homemade without the hassle.
Now it’s your turn—go ahead and give this spiced turkey and cauliflower rice bowl a try! When you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you make any fun variations? Serve it with a side salad or wrap it up in a tortilla? Tag your photos and stories on social media or drop a comment below with your experience. I always enjoy seeing your delicious creations and hearing how you made the recipe your own.
Cooking can be both simple and exciting when you have the right recipe, and I truly hope this becomes one of those dishes you come back to again and again. So grab your pan, your spices, and your appetite—it’s time to make something amazing.
PrintSpiced Turkey Rice Bowl with Cauliflower – Easy One-Pan Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick, bold, and healthy one-pan meal made with ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and warm spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
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6 oz ground turkey
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3 cups cauliflower rice
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1 carrot, chopped
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½ red bell pepper, chopped
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½ tsp turmeric
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2 tsp paprika (divided)
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1 tsp cumin
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½ tsp coriander
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
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1 tbsp pickled jalapeños (optional)
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4 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
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2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
Instructions
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In a skillet, cook turkey with ⅓ cup water over medium-high heat, covered, 4–5 min.
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Uncover and stir in turmeric, 1 tsp paprika, cumin, coriander, pepper, red pepper flakes, and 1 garlic clove. Cook 2–3 min.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped carrot and bell pepper. Stir in 1 tbsp olive oil, cauliflower rice, 1 tsp paprika, and salt. Cover and cook 3–4 min.
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Uncover. Add remaining garlic, jalapeños, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Stir and cook for 2 more min.
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Serve hot with optional herbs.
Notes
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To reduce heat, skip the red pepper flakes and jalapeños.
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Use pre-riced cauliflower for quicker prep.
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Great for meal prep—keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan/Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion/Healthy