Name: Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground turkey or ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground pepper; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 small yellow onion, sliced; 1 cup water; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Hot cooked rice (for serving)

When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, nothing beats a delicious stir fry. This Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry is not only simple to make but packed with flavor and nutrients. With lean ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a mouth-watering sauce, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy families or anyone looking for a speedy meal. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this stir fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry is one of my favorite go-to recipes for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, or even switch the protein to ground beef if you prefer. Second, the sauce is super easy to whip up and can be tweaked to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, making it a nourishing option for even the pickiest eaters. Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup after dinner!

Your Shopping Guide

To make this Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry, here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pound lean ground turkey or ground beef – This will be the base protein of your dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a delicious flavor boost.
1 teaspoon ground pepper – To add a hint of spice.
2 teaspoons salt – To bring all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil – For cooking the meat and vegetables.
4 cups fresh broccoli florets – A nutritious and crunchy addition.
1 small yellow onion, sliced – For sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 cup water – Helps to steam the broccoli.
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – For a savory taste.
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar – To balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
1 teaspoon ground ginger – A warming spice that complements the dish.
2 tablespoons cornstarch – To thicken the sauce.
Hot cooked rice – For serving, to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Recommended Tools

Before we dive into the cooking, here are some kitchen essentials that will make your stir fry experience even smoother:

Large skillet or wok – Perfect for cooking all the ingredients evenly.
Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife – Necessary for prepping your vegetables.

Stepwise Method: Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and cutting your vegetables. Slice the onion and separate the broccoli into florets. Measure out all your ingredients so you have everything ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable or olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground turkey or beef. Season it with garlic powder, ground pepper, and salt. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break up any large chunks with your spatula.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the meat is cooked, add the sliced onion and broccoli florets to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the water, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the meat and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the stir fry hot over a bed of hot cooked rice. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to make this Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry vegan or vegetarian, consider these swaps:

Replace the ground turkey or beef with tofu or seitan.
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Omit brown sugar or substitute with maple syrup for a plant-based sweetener.

Behind the Recipe

This Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry is a reflection of my love for quick and healthy meals. Growing up, my family often made stir fry because it was an easy way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into our diet. I’ve taken that concept and updated it with lean protein and a simple sauce that you can whip up in no time. The balance of sweet and savory in the sauce truly elevates this dish, making it a delightful experience every time.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To enjoy your Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry later, here are some tips:

Store: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze without the rice.
Reheat: Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my stir fry is too salty?

If you find your stir fry is too salty, add a splash of water to dilute the saltiness. You can also add more vegetables to balance the flavors.

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stir fry in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make my stir fry more flavorful?

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of Everything Stir Fry Sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be used; just add them directly to the pan and cook until heated through. They might take a little longer to cook than fresh ones.

Don’t Miss These

If you love this Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry, you’ll want to check out these other delicious recipes:

Shrimp Fried Rice – A flavorful and colorful rice dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Healthy Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe – A low-carb twist on a classic favorite.

Ready to Cook?

It’s time to bring the flavors of the kitchen to your dining table with this Easy Ground Turkey Stir Fry. With its quick prep time and delicious taste, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a wholesome meal that satisfies your cravings and nourishes your body. Happy cooking!