Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

This quick and easy Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a delightful dish that unites sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. In just 30 minutes, you can create a healthy meal that the entire family will love. With its homemade teriyaki sauce infused with a hint of orange zest, this stir fry pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Teriyaki Sauce:
• For the Stir Fry:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
• Step 2: Make the Stir Fry
• Step 3: Serve
• How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Over Rice
• With Noodles
• In Lettuce Wraps
• On Cauliflower Rice
• As A Salad
• With Quinoa
• How to Perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Reheating Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I customize my Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
• Can I use other meats in this recipe?
• What should I serve with Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
• How long does it take to make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
• Can I meal prep this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The homemade teriyaki sauce brings a delicious sweetness that enhances the ground turkey and vegetables.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean ground turkey and fresh veggies, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here are the essentials you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir frying and ensures even cooking of ingredients.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the teriyaki sauce, allowing for easy stirring and monitoring of thickness.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing the corn starch slurry.

Ingredients

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 corn starch
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a low boil.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup water and corn starch until fully dissolved.
2. Slowly stir the corn starch slurry into the saucepan.
3. Cook until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry

Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

1. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Add ground turkey. Cook until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), about 7-10 minutes.
3. Add broccoli and shredded carrots; cook until heated through and tender (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Reduce heat to low and pour prepared teriyaki sauce over stir fry. Stir to coat evenly and let simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3: Serve

Serve your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. It can also be served as a filling for lettuce wraps.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a comforting bowl of rice or a fresh lettuce wrap, there are plenty of options to make this dish your own.

Over Rice

• Serve the stir fry over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal that soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles, such as soba or udon, for a quick pasta alternative that enhances the flavor profile.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps for a lighter option. This is perfect for those looking to reduce carbs while enjoying the savory filling.

On Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb version, serve the stir fry on cauliflower rice. It provides a similar texture with fewer calories.

As A Salad

• Transform your stir fry into a salad by adding mixed greens and drizzling with extra teriyaki sauce for a refreshing twist.

With Quinoa

• Pair it with quinoa for an added protein boost. Its nutty flavor complements the dish nicely while keeping it healthy.

How to Perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Achieving the perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry involves attention to detail and simple techniques that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better texture and flavor. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Cook at High Heat: Stir frying at high heat ensures your turkey cooks quickly while maintaining moisture and preventing it from getting tough.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: If making a large batch, cook in batches to avoid steaming the ingredients. This keeps everything crisp.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your teriyaki sauce thickens too much, simply add water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste As You Go: Season gradually and taste frequently to ensure balanced flavors throughout the dish.
• Experiment with Proteins: Don’t hesitate to swap ground turkey for chicken or beef based on your preference or dietary restrictions.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices that complement its flavors well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A classic pairing that adds nutrition and enhances the green color of your plate.
2. Fried Rice: Incorporate leftover rice with veggies and eggs for a flavorful side that complements the main dish.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame seeds balances out the richness of the stir fry.
4. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a tasty snack that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes.
5. Miso Soup: Serve warm miso soup as an appetizer for a comforting start to your meal.
6. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a crunchy contrast to the tender stir fry.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: For an Italian twist, garlic breadsticks can provide an unexpected yet delightful pairing.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauce Preparation: Not making the teriyaki sauce from scratch can lead to a less flavorful dish. Homemade sauce allows you to control sweetness and saltiness.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Sauté them until just tender to keep a nice crunch and vibrant color.
• Using Low-Quality Ground Turkey: Choosing low-quality meat can result in a greasy stir fry. Opt for lean ground turkey for better flavor and texture.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland results. Always taste your stir fry before serving and add salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking ground turkey too quickly on high heat may cause uneven cooking. Cook over medium heat to ensure even cooking while maintaining moisture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label the containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas, or include extra spices for more heat.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! Ground chicken, pork, or beef work well as substitutes in this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry.

What should I serve with Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?

This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

How long does it take to make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?

The total time is about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This stir fry stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit any palate. You can customize it with different proteins and vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!