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Homemade Skillet Ground Turkey Taco Cauliflower Rice photo

Skillet Ground Turkey Taco Cauliflower Rice

This Skillet Ground Turkey Taco Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful, healthy, and easy one-pan meal packed with bold Mexican spices and fresh toppings.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Easy, Gluten-Free, Healthy, One-Pan, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 small onion minced
  • 2 tbsp bell pepper minced
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 4 oz canned tomato sauce about 1/2 of an 8 oz can
  • 4 cups uncooked riced cauliflower
  • 4 oz avocado from 1 small
  • Chopped cilantro
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce
  • 1/4 cup jarred salsa
  • Lime wedges to squeeze over

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey

  • Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess liquid if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices

  • Add the minced onion and bell pepper to the turkey. Stir and cook until softened, around 3 minutes. Sprinkle in the kosher salt, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir well to evenly coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomato Sauce and Water

  • Pour in the canned tomato sauce and 3/4 cup water. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Cauliflower Rice

  • Push the turkey mixture to one side of the skillet. Add the riced cauliflower to the empty side. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy. Then, mix the cauliflower rice with the turkey mixture until fully combined.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Toppings

  • Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the turkey taco cauliflower rice into bowls. Top each serving with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, chopped lettuce, and a generous drizzle of jarred salsa. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime wedge for that extra zing.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp Knife
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon
  • Grater or food processor (optional)

Notes

  • Use 93% lean ground turkey to keep the dish moist without excess fat.
  • Adjust chili powder and paprika to control the heat level to your preference.
  • Freshly riced cauliflower works well but pre-packaged cauliflower rice saves time.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, lettuce, salsa, and lime wedges fresh at serving for best flavor and texture.