A Delicious Recipe for a Busy Night: Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

When the clock is ticking and the fridge isn’t exactly inspiring, this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry steps in like a reliable friend. It’s not just quick—it’s a colorful, savory mix that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and the promise of comfort without the fuss. Cooking this dish feels like unlocking a little secret to weeknight happiness.

There was a moment just last week when I came home after a long day and the only thing I wanted was something fast but tasty. The sizzle of the turkey hitting the hot pan, the sharp scent of garlic mingling with fresh ginger, and the bright crunch of bell peppers and carrots all coming together was a small celebration. The homemade teriyaki sauce clung to every bite, glossy and rich, while the sesame seeds added just the right touch of nuttiness. Sitting down to eat, I felt like I was treating myself without any guilt or hassle. It’s that kind of dish that makes you appreciate simple moments.

  • Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
  • Combines lean protein with fresh veggies for a balanced meal.
  • Homemade teriyaki sauce means no mystery ingredients or excess sugar.
  • Vibrant colors and textures keep every bite exciting.
  • Easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand.

If you’re worried about prep time, this recipe is forgiving and straightforward. Even if you’re new to stir-frying, the steps come together smoothly, and the result feels like a win for your health and your schedule.

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Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

A quick and flavorful Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry packed with vegetables and a homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium carrot, julienned
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, water, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the turkey and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add sliced red and yellow bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the stir fry.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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FAQ

Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein? Absolutely, ground chicken or even tofu can work well if you prefer.

Is the teriyaki sauce too sweet? The sauce balances honey’s sweetness with tangy rice vinegar and savory soy sauce, but you can adjust to taste.

How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Can I add more vegetables? Feel free to toss in snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini to suit your preferences.

Give this stir fry a try next time your evening feels rushed but you still want something delicious and nourishing. You might just find yourself reaching for it again and again.