Ground Turkey Teriyaki: Quick and Delicious Family Meal

Name: Ground Turkey Teriyaki
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 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; 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); ¾ cup water; ¼ cup water (for corn starch mixture)

Jump to Recipe

Ground turkey teriyaki is a quick and delicious dinner option that’s both savory and satisfying. This easy recipe bursts with flavors and is packed with healthy vegetables, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Table of Contents

Ground turkey teriyaki with vegetables over rice, perfect for family dinners.

Why You Will Love This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation

This ground turkey teriyaki recipe comes together in just 20 minutes! With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, it’s a lifesaver for those hectic evenings. You can toss everything in a skillet, and before you know it, you’re serving a homemade meal that tastes like takeout.

Ground turkey teriyaki with vibrant vegetables.

Packed with Nutrient-Rich Vegetables

Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also loaded with nutrient-dense vegetables like broccoli and carrots. These veggies add a lovely crunch and vibrant color, making your plate as appealing as it is healthy. Plus, you can easily sneak in additional veggies your family loves!

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

You’ll be delighted to know that the teriyaki sauce is entirely homemade! Combining soy sauce, honey, and fresh ginger creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The orange zest adds a delightful citrusy note that elevates the dish, leaving you craving more.

Freezer-Friendly for Meal Prep

Ground turkey teriyaki is ideal for meal prep! Cook up a batch and refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for later use. It reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for healthy lunches or quick dinners. Simply pair it with rice or noodles, and you’re set!

Ingredient Notes

Key Ingredients for Teriyaki Sauce

To make the teriyaki sauce, you’ll need soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, fresh ginger, cornstarch, orange zest, and water. Each ingredient plays a role in developing that rich, glossy sauce we all love.

Ground Turkey and Vegetable Choices

A pound of ground turkey is the star of this dish, but feel free to use ground chicken or even pork if you prefer. As for vegetables, broccoli and carrots are just the beginning—consider adding bell peppers or snap peas for more variety.

Suggested Substitutions and Variations

If you want to mix it up, you can use different proteins or vegetables. For a kick, try adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also serve the teriyaki mixture in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or over cauliflower rice for a healthy twist!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

Start by combining ¾ cup water, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until mixed and bring to a low boil. In a separate bowl, whisk ¼ cup water with cornstarch until dissolved, then gradually add to the saucepan. Stir until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and add the orange zest.

Cooking the Ground Turkey and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft. Next, add ground turkey and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 7-10 minutes. Toss in the broccoli and carrots, cooking until they’re tender and heated through.

Combining Ingredients for the Perfect Stir Fry

Once the vegetables are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the stir fry over your choice of rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a refreshing crunch!

Recipe Tips

Adjusting Sauce Thickness

If your teriyaki sauce turns out too thick, simply add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency. This way, you’ll have a perfectly saucy dish that clings beautifully to the turkey and veggies.

Adding Extra Flavor with Spices

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some cayenne or red pepper flakes. Sriracha also works wonders if you want that spicy kick to complement the sweetness of the sauce.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serve your ground turkey teriyaki over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. You could also turn this dish into a fun meal by offering lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy alternative. The possibilities are endless!

Storage

Refrigeration Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it easy to enjoy the delicious flavors again without any fuss.

Freezing for Later Use

For longer storage, freeze the teriyaki in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and enjoying again!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need to make ground turkey teriyaki?

To make ground turkey teriyaki, you will need ground turkey, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, corn starch, sesame oil, broccoli, carrots, onion, and some water.

How can I make ground turkey teriyaki healthier?

You can make ground turkey teriyaki healthier by using low-sodium soy sauce, adding more vegetables, and serving it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

What are some good side dishes to serve with ground turkey teriyaki?

Great side dishes include steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad for crunch. You could also serve it with noodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I use ground turkey teriyaki in meal prep?

Yes, ground turkey teriyaki is an excellent option for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use.

What are some variations of ground turkey teriyaki I can try?

You can try using ground chicken or pork, add different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

Conclusion

Incorporating ground turkey teriyaki into your weeknight meals not only simplifies dinner but also provides a healthy and delicious option the entire family will love. For more wholesome recipes, feel free to explore our collection on Pinterest for inspiration!