In today’s fast-paced world, we all need quick, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on flavor. This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry checks all the boxes – it’s ready in 20 minutes, packed with lean protein, and bursting with the sweet-savory flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce. Unlike traditional beef stir fries, using ground turkey makes this dish lighter yet equally satisfying, perfect for health-conscious eaters or anyone looking for a simple, budget-friendly meal. The combination of colorful veggies, tender turkey, and glossy teriyaki glaze creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s actually easy enough for busy weeknights.
What makes this stir fry truly special is its versatility and foolproof method. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a last-minute dinner solution, this recipe adapts to whatever ingredients you have on hand. The homemade teriyaki sauce – made with just 5 pantry staples – is far superior to store-bought versions, with the perfect balance of sweetness from honey, umami from soy sauce, and a hint of garlic and ginger. Kids love it, adults crave it, and best of all, you’ll have minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one skillet. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making on repeat all year round.
What Makes This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Special?
This recipe stands out because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The ground turkey cooks quickly and absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully, while the crisp-tender vegetables add freshness and crunch. Unlike many stir fry recipes that require precise timing, this version is forgiving and flexible – you can swap veggies based on what’s in your fridge, adjust the sauce to be sweeter or saltier, and even make it spicier with a dash of sriracha. The dish is naturally gluten-free adaptable (just use tamari instead of soy sauce) and meal prep friendly, tasting just as good reheated as it does fresh from the pan. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout that’s actually faster than delivery!
Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry: A Quick, Healthy Weeknight Dinner
4
servings10
minutes10
minutes320
kcalIngredients for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
For the Stir Fry:
1 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best)
1 tbsp avocado or vegetable oil
3 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli florets, carrots, snap peas)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- For the Teriyaki Sauce:
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Directions for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
- Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. In a separate bowl, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with water until smooth. Set both aside.
- Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
- Add Aromatics and Vegetables
Push turkey to one side of the pan. Add garlic and ginger to the empty space and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add Sauce and Thicken
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetables, stirring to combine. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Cauliflower rice (for low-carb)
- Quick-pickled cucumbers or carrots
- Egg rolls or potstickers (for a takeout-style meal)
- Extra teriyaki sauce on the side for drizzling
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 14g
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is the ultimate quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner solution. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, adaptable ingredients, and lightning-fast cooking time, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation. The homemade teriyaki sauce elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary, proving that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, meal prepping, or just craving Asian-inspired flavors without the takeout containers, this dish delivers every time. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s better than any restaurant version!
