If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal, Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet is the perfect choice. This dish combines the savory flavors of ground turkey and garlic with the nutritional benefits of cauliflower. It’s easy to make and great for any night of the week, whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is packed with protein from the ground turkey and nutrients from the cauliflower. Plus, it’s cooked in garlic butter, making it flavorful and satisfying without being overly heavy. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat healthier while still enjoying a tasty meal. Additionally, it’s quick to prepare and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
How to Make Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
Directions:
- Cook the Cauliflower: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned. Remove cauliflower from the skillet and set aside.
- Brown the Turkey: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Combine & Simmer: Add the sautéed cauliflower back to the skillet. If the mixture seems dry, stir in the chicken broth and simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet
This dish is great served on its own or alongside your favorite grain like rice or quinoa. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad for extra crunch and nutrition.
How to Store Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave it for a quick option.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet
- Be sure to chop the cauliflower into small florets for even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
- If you want more texture, try adding some diced bell peppers or carrots when cooking the turkey.
Variation
For a low-carb option, you can swap out the ground turkey for ground chicken or beef. You can also add other vegetables, such as spinach or peas, for added color and nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. What other proteins can I use instead of ground turkey?
You can use ground chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just cook it to the appropriate temperature.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Cauliflower Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chicken broth (optional) For extra moisture
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan (optional) For extra flavor
Instructions
Cooking Process
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned. Remove cauliflower from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the sautéed cauliflower back to the skillet. If the mixture seems dry, stir in the chicken broth and simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!