This quick, weeknight-friendly skillet meal pairs lean ground turkey with cauliflower gnocchi for a low-carb, gluten-free dinner. It cooks fast, smells savory from garlic and onion, and finishes with wilted spinach for a pop of color and a tender, leafy bite. The gnocchi give soft, pillowy texture while the turkey adds satisfying protein. If you enjoy turkey dishes, try this best Christmas stuffed turkey breast for a different holiday-style option.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
Values are approximate per serving.
- Calories per serving: 360 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
Why Make This Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
This recipe is fast, satisfying, and naturally gluten free when you choose a cauliflower gnocchi labeled gluten free. It delivers warm, savory flavors and a comforting texture without heavy carbs. The dish is versatile — you can add more vegetables, swap cheeses, or make it dairy free. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a one-skillet meal that smells great and comes together quickly.
How to Make Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
You’ll brown the turkey, sauté aromatics, cook the gnocchi, then toss in spinach. Work in a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding so the gnocchi stays tender with a slight crust. Use a wooden spoon to break the turkey into small pieces for even browning. Finish with a quick seasoning and optional grated parmesan for a savory bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 package cauliflower gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the spinach so it wilts evenly.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the softened onion and garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula so it cooks in small pieces, about 6–8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper while cooking.
Step 4: Cook Gnocchi and Finish
Stir in the cauliflower gnocchi and cook according to package instructions in the same skillet, usually 6–8 minutes. If the gnocchi benefit from pan-searing, spread them into a single layer and let them brown a bit before stirring. Add the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot with grated parmesan if desired.
How to Serve Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic feel. Top with a sprinkle of grated parmesan, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. This recipe works well for casual weeknight dinners and also as a small-batch meal for lunch prep.
How to Store Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Texture may soften after freezing; crisp briefly in a hot skillet to refresh.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture. Microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes if needed, stirring halfway through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
- Use a hot skillet to brown the turkey well. Browning adds depth and savory flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking gnocchi — a little space lets them brown and keeps them from getting mushy.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or a teaspoon of olive oil.
- Use low-sodium gnocchi or rinse packaged gnocchi if they are salted heavily to control sodium.
- For a crisp finish, pan-sear gnocchi in batches until golden before combining with the turkey.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end — cooked cauliflower gnocchi can need a bit more salt.
Delicious Variations
- Tomato and Basil: Stir in 1/2 cup marinara and torn basil leaves for a saucy twist.
- Creamy Garlic: Add 2 tablespoons cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a silky sauce.
- Mushroom and Thyme: Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms with the onions and add fresh thyme.
- Spicy Sausage Swap: Replace turkey with Italian turkey sausage or spicy pork sausage for bold flavor.
- Pesto Gnocchi: Toss with a spoonful of basil pesto for bright, herby notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is cauliflower gnocchi really gluten free?
A: Many cauliflower gnocchi brands are gluten free, but always read the package label. Some varieties include wheat or are processed in facilities that handle gluten.
Q: Can I substitute another protein for the ground turkey?
A: Yes. Ground chicken, turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or crumbled tofu work well. Adjust cooking time for different proteins.
Q: How can I make this dairy free?
A: Skip the parmesan and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The main recipe is dairy free without the optional cheese.
Q: Can I cook the gnocchi separately?
A: Yes. If you prefer, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions in a separate pan, then add to the turkey and aromatics. This can help control texture.
Q: Will the gnocchi get soggy if I store leftovers?
A: They can soften in the fridge. Reheat in a hot skillet to help them regain some texture. Avoid overcooking during the initial preparation.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, kale, or peas are all great additions. Sauté firm vegetables with the onion so they are tender.
Q: How long does this take to make for meal prep?
A: Prep and cook together take about 25 minutes. Make a double batch and store in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners.
Conclusion
This Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi recipe is a fast, comforting dish with tender turkey, soft gnocchi, and bright spinach. It’s easy to adapt for dietary needs and tastes great reheated. For another simple cauliflower gnocchi idea, try the 4 Ingredient Fix: Red Pesto Cauliflower Gnocchi Recipe — it’s a handy variation when you want a change. Give this skillet dinner a try tonight — it’s quick, tasty, and feels like a cozy home-cooked meal.
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Gluten Free Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Gnocchi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
This quick skillet meal pairs lean ground turkey with cauliflower gnocchi for a low-carb, gluten-free dinner that is fast, satisfying, and full of savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 package cauliflower gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in cauliflower gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 6–8 minutes. If desired, pan-sear gnocchi for a crispy finish, then add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
