Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal perfect for weeknight dinners. This dish combines tender ground turkey with a vibrant medley of vegetables, all coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Serve it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or swap turkey for chicken, beef, or pork.
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: Simple and fresh, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables.
Versatile Serving Options: Great over rice, noodles, or as lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

¼ cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup water, divided
2 tablespoons honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Stir Fry

1 pound ground turkey
2 teaspoons sesame oil
3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
1 small onion, diced
1 cup shredded carrots
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a low boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup water and cornstarch until dissolved. Gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan.
Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat. Stir in the orange zest and set aside.

Make the Stir Fry

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground turkey and cook for 7–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Reduce heat to low and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the stir fry. Toss to coat evenly and simmer for a few minutes.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over rice, noodles, or as lettuce wraps. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Teriyaki: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or cayenne for a kick of heat.
Different Proteins: Use ground chicken, pork, or beef instead of turkey.
Additional Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free alternative.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based ground meat or tofu as a substitute for the ground turkey.

2. Can I use pre-made teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely, though homemade teriyaki sauce offers a fresher and more customizable flavor.

3. How do I prevent the vegetables from overcooking?

Add the vegetables after the turkey is cooked and cook them just until tender-crisp.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well. Add them directly to the skillet and cook until heated through.

5. How can I thicken the teriyaki sauce further?

If needed, whisk a bit more cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce until the desired thickness is achieved.

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

7. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Pair with a side of miso soup or a simple salad.

8. Can I omit the orange zest?

Yes, but the orange zest adds a subtle citrusy brightness that enhances the dish.

9. How do I keep the stir fry from becoming soggy?

Cook the vegetables quickly over high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a large wok or skillet to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it over rice, noodles, or in wraps for a versatile and satisfying dinner option!