Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Ground turkey teriyaki stir fry is a quick and flavorful meal loaded with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and balanced: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and a flavorful homemade sauce.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or swap turkey for chicken, beef, or tofu.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or as a low-carb lettuce wrap.

Ingredients

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

For the stir fry:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or green beans
• 2 carrots, thinly sliced

For the teriyaki sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Directions

1. Cook the ground turkey:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil.
   • Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
   • Stir in the garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Cook the vegetables:
   • Add the broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots to the skillet.
   • Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Make the teriyaki sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry.
5. Combine and finish:
   • Return the cooked turkey to the skillet with the vegetables.
   • Pour the teriyaki sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
6. Serve:
   • Serve hot over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version: Serve the stir fry in lettuce cups or over cauliflower rice.
• Spicy teriyaki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
• Different proteins: Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or even tofu.
• Other veggies: Use zucchini, mushrooms, or cabbage to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce gives you more control over flavor and ingredients.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the cooked turkey and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and stir-fry with fresh vegetables when ready to serve.

3. Can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.

4. What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Chop the vegetables and make the teriyaki sauce in advance for faster cooking.

6. Why isn’t my sauce thickening?

Ensure the cornstarch slurry is well-mixed before adding it, and let the sauce simmer for a minute or two.

7. What’s the best type of ground turkey to use?

Use lean ground turkey for a healthy option, but avoid extra-lean as it may dry out.

8. Can I add noodles directly to the skillet?

Yes, cook noodles separately and toss them in with the stir fry for a complete dish.

9. How do I avoid overcooking the vegetables?

Cook them over high heat and remove them from the skillet while still slightly crisp.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or work in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Ground turkey teriyaki stir fry is a healthy, quick, and flavorful dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for the whole family. Packed with tender vegetables, lean protein, and a delicious homemade sauce, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome!