Creamy Ground Turkey & Spinach Protein Bowl
Description
This quick and easy creamy ground turkey and spinach bowl is a high-protein, low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 15 minutes, it features lean ground turkey simmered with salsa, cottage cheese, and fresh spinach to create a flavorful, creamy dish that's gluten-free and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey
- 1.5 cups hot salsa use mild or medium to reduce heat if preferred
- 1.5 cups cottage cheese preferably 2% or 4% fat for best texture
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 medium onion diced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for cooking
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Uneven heat makes turkey dry fast — I switched to this flat nonstick skillet, and it’s been a game-changer.
- Add ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 6–7 minutes.
- I use this meat chopper for quick, even browning—way easier than using a spoon or spatula.
- Add diced onion, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the onion softens and the herbs release their aroma.
- Pour in the salsa and add the butter. Stir until the butter melts, then add the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in cottage cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cottage cheese warms and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to thicken and meld the flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
- Serve hot on its own or over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice according to preference.
Notes
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Adjust salsa heat level according to your spice preference.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve over grains or eat on its own for a low-carb option.