These Turkey Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy low-carb dinner. Made with lean ground turkey and served over fluffy cauliflower rice, this easy recipe is ideal for meal prep, weight loss, and busy weeknights. Save this high-protein dinner recipe for a quick, family-friendly meal everyone will love.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – ready in under 40 minutes
- Family-friendly – mild, flavorful, and kid-approved
- Budget-friendly – simple, affordable ingredients
- Customizable – swap spices, sauces, or veggies to suit your taste
🥕 Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Cauliflower Rice
- 1 large head cauliflower (or 4 cups riced cauliflower)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined. - Shape the meatballs
Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1½ inches each). - Cook the meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10–12 minutes). Remove and set aside. - Prepare the cauliflower rice
Cut cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until rice-sized (skip if using pre-riced). - Cook the cauliflower rice
In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add cauliflower rice, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender. - Serve
Plate cauliflower rice and top with turkey meatballs. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
🍳 Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Food processor (for cauliflower rice)
- Spatula or tongs
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the meatballs
- Sauce option: Serve with marinara, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt sauce
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out
- Common mistake: Overmixing the turkey can make the meatballs dense. Mix lightly
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables
- Serve with a spoonful of marinara sauce for extra comfort
- Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh finish
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 22 g
✅ Conclusion
These Turkey Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice are proof that healthy meals can still be hearty and delicious. Perfect for low-carb lifestyles, meal prep, or quick dinners, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Save it, print it, and share it with anyone looking for a wholesome comfort meal.
❓ FAQ – Turkey Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, the turkey meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. Freeze cauliflower rice separately for the best texture.
How can I make this ahead of time?
Cook the meatballs and cauliflower rice in advance and store them separately in the fridge.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Ground chicken or lean beef works well.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, especially if you use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes.