Name: 20-Minute Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 6 oz (180g) ground turkey; 3 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 small head); 1 carrot, chopped; ½ red bell pepper, chopped; ½ tsp turmeric; 2 tsp paprika (divided); 1 tsp cumin; 1 tbsp pickled jalapeños; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; ½ tsp coriander; 2 tbsp olive oil (divided); 4 cloves garlic, minced (divided); Salt, to taste; Optional: freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to make — one pan, no fuss, and it’s bursting with flavor thanks to the mix of warming spices and jalapeños. It’s light but filling, and the cauliflower rice makes it feel like I’m having a hearty meal without the heaviness of traditional rice. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep — I double the batch and enjoy it all week long.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 oz (180g) ground turkey
3 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 small head)
1 carrot, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
2 teaspoons paprika (divided)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon pickled jalapeños
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
4 garlic cloves, minced
Salt, to taste
Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the turkey: In a skillet over medium-high heat, I add the ground turkey with about 1/4 cup water. I cover and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully browned.
Add spices: I stir in turmeric, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, coriander, cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 garlic clove. I cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until any remaining water evaporates.
Add vegetables and cauliflower rice: I reduce the heat to medium and mix in the chopped carrot and red bell pepper. Then I stir in the cauliflower rice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining paprika, and salt. I cover and cook for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finish with flavor: I uncover the skillet, stir in the remaining garlic, chopped jalapeños, and the last tablespoon of olive oil. I cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Serve and enjoy: I plate it hot and top with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if I have it on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and is ready in just 20 minutes total — 7 minutes of prep and 13 minutes to cook. It’s a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner or meal prep solution that keeps me full without the crash.

Variations

Make it vegetarian: I swap in lentils, tofu, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Add greens: I mix in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking.
More veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans all make great additions.
Spice it up: I add extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an even bolder kick.
Change the protein: Ground chicken or beef works just as well if I don’t have turkey.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop — I just add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. If I’m meal prepping, I double the batch and portion it out in containers for ready-to-go lunches or dinners.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes, I use frozen cauliflower rice when I’m short on time. I just make sure to cook off any excess moisture before adding the spices.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a good kick, but I can easily adjust the heat by using less red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

What’s the best way to make homemade cauliflower rice?

I pulse chopped cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice, then pat it dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. I let it cool completely, then freeze in single portions for up to 2 months. I reheat straight from frozen on the stove or microwave.

How can I increase the protein?

I simply use a full pound of ground turkey instead of 6 ounces or add a fried egg on top for a boost.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Spicy Cauliflower Rice with Ground Turkey is one of those meals I never get tired of. It’s flavorful, healthy, and comes together in no time — perfect for busy nights or meal prepping ahead. Whether I’m following a low-carb plan or just want something nourishing and quick, this dish always delivers.