Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30)
Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) is a delightful and nutritious meal that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. The combination of ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, and cabbage rice creates a satisfying bowl that is suitable for various dietary preferences, including keto, paleo, and Whole30.
Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner option, these bowls will become a staple in your kitchen. The use of avocado oil gives a rich flavor while keeping the dish health-conscious. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table!
Why It Deserves a Spot

This recipe is a winner for many reasons. First and foremost, it is incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your favorite vegetables or whatever you have in your fridge. Additionally, it’s a one-bowl meal, making it convenient for busy weeknights. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both hearty and nutritious. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in more vegetables into your diet, especially with the cabbage rice as a substitute for traditional grains.
Another great aspect of Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) is the balance of macronutrients. Ground turkey is a lean protein, while the vegetables provide fiber and essential vitamins. This makes it a perfect option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet. And with minimal prep and cook time, you’ll find yourself making this dish over and over again!
Shopping List
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, chopped
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 zucchini squash, chopped
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp sea salt, to taste
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 large head green cabbage, grated
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, to taste
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large skillet: For sautéing the turkey and vegetables.
- Cutting board and knife: To chop your vegetables and prepare the ingredients.
- Grater or food processor: For grating the cabbage into rice-like pieces.
- Mixing spoon: To stir everything together in the skillet.
How to Prepare Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30)

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Rice
Begin by grating the green cabbage using a grater or food processor until it resembles rice grains. This will be the base of your bowls, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced yellow onion and chopped apple. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Mushrooms
Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and release their moisture.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your mixing spoon. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Incorporate Zucchini and Seasonings
Once the turkey is fully cooked, add the chopped zucchini, dried oregano, ground ginger, and sea salt. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Cabbage Rice
Finally, fold in the baby spinach and grated cabbage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cabbage rice is tender but not mushy.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Taste your Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt if desired.
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

- For added healthy fats, consider topping your bowls with sliced avocado.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Incorporate other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower for more variety.
- If you prefer a little heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños while cooking.
Little Things that Matter
Choosing fresh, organic ingredients can elevate the flavors of your dish significantly. Additionally, don’t rush through the sautéing process; allowing the onions and garlic to caramelize will enhance the overall taste. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting seasonings to your personal preference!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
These Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) are perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you’re short on time!
Handy Q&A
Can I use a different protein instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I serve with these bowls?
These bowls are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like a homemade tahini dressing or hot sauce for an extra kick.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, as mentioned above.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve prepared your Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30), it’s time to serve and enjoy! These bowls are not only colorful and appealing, but they also burst with flavors and nutrients. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or your favorite sauce to enhance the experience.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even impressing guests. With every bite, you’ll be savoring the wholesome goodness that this recipe offers.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be bland or boring, and this recipe is a testament to that. Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) is a delicious way to nourish your body while satisfying your taste buds. Enjoy!

Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by grating the green cabbage using a grater or food processor until it resembles rice grains. This will be the base of your bowls, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced yellow onion and chopped apple. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and release their moisture.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your mixing spoon. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, add the chopped zucchini, dried oregano, ground ginger, and sea salt. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften.
- Finally, fold in the baby spinach and grated cabbage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cabbage rice is tender but not mushy.
- Taste your Ground Turkey Bowls with Cabbage Rice (Keto, Paleo, Whole30) and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt if desired.
Notes
- For added healthy fats, consider topping your bowls with sliced avocado.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Incorporate other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower for more variety.
