Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a vibrant, quick-cooking dish that brings together lean protein and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. I love making this recipe when I want to serve a flavorful meal that doesn’t sacrifice time or health on busy weeknights. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and taste that leaves everyone satisfied. Plus, with simple ingredients and just one pan used, it makes cleanup a breeze!

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder, what sets this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry apart from typical stir-fries? For starters, it’s not just quick; it’s also budget-friendly and kid-approved, making it a go-to for families. Ground turkey cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.

This dish is exceptional for weeknight dinners when you want something nutritious yet tasty on the table in under 30 minutes. The vibrant broccoli and carrots not only add a pop of color but also boost the nutritional value.

“This stir fry is a game changer! Quick to make and my kids loved it. They didn’t even notice they were eating turkey instead of beef!” – A happy home cook

Preparing Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Cooking this dish is as enjoyable as eating it. In just a few steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready at home. The first step is to prepare your ingredients and make the teriyaki sauce. Once that’s ready, everything comes together in one skillet, making the process efficient and enjoyable.

Let’s break down the steps so you know what to expect.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this delightful stir fry:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium options work)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 cup water, divided
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap in your favorite low-sodium soy sauce or add more veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for an extra crunch!

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, 1/2 cup of water, corn starch, garlic, ginger, and orange zest until smooth. Set aside.

  2. Cook the Turkey: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. Add Veggies: Stir in the onion, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

  4. Combine the Sauce: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked turkey and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of water to thin the sauce if needed. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice, noodles, or enjoy as is!

Serving Ideas

When it comes to serving, the possibilities are endless! This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option
  • Rice noodles to switch things up
  • Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor and crunch

Feeling adventurous? Serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb alternative!

Best Way to Store Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Leftovers can be a lifesaver! To store this dish properly:

  • Refrigerate: Allow the stir fry to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
  • Freeze: You can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet on medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.

Remember, safe food handling is crucial! Always check for any spoilage before consuming leftovers.

Expert Advice

Here are some tips to make your stir fry even better:

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, your ingredients will steam instead of sauté, which can lead to a mushy texture. Cook in batches if needed!
  • Cut ingredients uniformly: This ensures even cooking and a nice presentation.
  • Add veggies towards the end: For fresher taste and crunch, add harder vegetables like broccoli first and softer ones like carrots towards the last few minutes of cooking.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you can try:

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for some heat.
  • Citrusy Flavor: Incorporate lime juice or fresh cilantro for a fresh twist.
  • Change the Protein: Swap ground turkey for chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation will take about 10-15 minutes, while cooking takes around 15 minutes.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What can I use instead of ground turkey?

Ground chicken or tofu can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor or diet option.

How can I ensure my vegetables remain crisp?

Cook them quickly over high heat, and add them in order of density (harder veggies first) to maintain a good texture.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this quick and delightful Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry! It’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Print
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Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

A vibrant, quick-cooking dish that features ground turkey and fresh vegetables in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 cup water, divided
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ½ cup of water, corn starch, garlic, ginger, and orange zest until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Turkey: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Veggies: Stir in the onion, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Combine the Sauce: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked turkey and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice, noodles, or as is!

Notes

Feel free to substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground turkey, stir fry, teriyaki, quick meals, family-friendly

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