Looking for a healthy and easy dinner idea? These Turkey Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a low-carb lifestyle. This quick weeknight meal is family-friendly, budget-friendly, and ideal for meal prep. Save this high-protein recipe for busy nights or clean eating goals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in under 35 minutes)
- Family-friendly and naturally low-carb
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients
- Customizable with sauces, spices, or veggies
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Cauliflower Rice
- 1 large head cauliflower (or 4 cups riced cauliflower)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Marinara or yogurt-based sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, seasonings, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs on all sides, or bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through.
- While meatballs cook, rice the cauliflower using a food processor if needed.
- Heat olive oil in a separate skillet 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 turkey meatballs over cauliflower rice and add toppings if desired.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Food processor or box grater
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or tongs
Tips & Variations
- Extra juicy meatballs: Do not overmix the turkey mixture.
- Sauce it up: Serve with marinara, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt sauce.
- Spice option: Add red pepper flakes or cumin for extra heat.
- Meal prep: Store meatballs and cauliflower rice separately for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve in bowls for easy meal prep lunches.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 18g
Conclusion
These Turkey Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice are a perfect balance of comfort and health. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner, a meal-prep-friendly recipe, or a quick family meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Save it, share it, and enjoy a lighter take on a classic favorite.
FAQ Section
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, turkey meatballs freeze very well. Freeze them separately from the cauliflower rice for best results.
How do I make it ahead?
Cook the meatballs up to 3 days in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute.
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, baking is a great hands-off option and keeps them juicy.