After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of dinner cooking away in the kitchen. Picture this: the sizzling sound of lean ground turkey, mingling with the delightful crunch of fresh broccoli and the sweet pop of peas, all coated in a luscious teriyaki sauce. That’s what you can expect when you whip up this Quick Teriyaki Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Peas!
This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, taking less than 20 minutes to prepare with just eight simple ingredients. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also packed with nutrition, making it a hit for the whole family. Imagine serving up a meal that feels like takeout but is healthier and made right in your own kitchen! Get ready to savor this sweet-savory delight that promises to keep your evenings stress-free and utterly delicious.
Why Will You Love Teriyaki Ground Turkey?
Quick and Easy: This recipe showcases how a nutritious meal can be prepared in no time, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
Versatile Ingredients: With just eight ingredients, it caters to different tastes—feel free to swap turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer!
Nutritious Delight: Packed with lean ground turkey, vibrant broccoli, and sweet peas, this dish offers a well-rounded nutritional profile that’s ideal for family dinners.
Budget-Friendly: Keep your wallet happy without compromising on flavor; this meal is not only delicious but also affordable!
Satisfies Cravings: Enjoy takeout-style deliciousness at home; the sweet-savory teriyaki sauce wrapped around the turkey and veggies is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to incorporate these delicious flavors into your weekly meal prep!
Teriyaki Ground Turkey Ingredients
• Prepare for a delicious stir-fry!
For the Stir-Fry
- Olive Oil – Provides a cooking medium; substitute with vegetable or sesame oil for extra flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds a fragrant aroma; fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best taste.
- White Onion (1½ cups, chopped) – Offers sweetness and depth; can be replaced with yellow onion or shallots.
- Lean Ground Turkey (1 lb) – The main protein source that’s lower in fat compared to beef; ground chicken or tofurkey work as great alternatives.
- Shredded Carrots (1 cup) – Brings sweetness and vibrant color; use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience.
- Broccoli Florets (2 cups, chopped small) – Contributes crunch and nutrients; frozen broccoli is a handy time-saver.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Provides a natural sweetness; fresh or canned peas can easily substitute if desired.
- Teriyaki Sauce (1½ cups) – Delivers that sweet-savory flavor; consider making your own or using soy sauce with a sweetener for a lighter touch.
- Cooked Rice (4 cups, optional for serving) – Acts as a hearty base; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great lower-carb alternatives.
Get excited about making this quick and delicious Teriyaki Ground Turkey dish that the whole family will love!
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Turkey
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Prepare Rice: Start by cooking 1½ cups of rice according to package instructions. This will serve as the delicious base for your stir-fry.
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Prep Veggies: While the rice cooks, take a moment to shred 1 cup of carrots, chop 1½ cups of onion, mince 3 cloves of garlic, and chop 2 cups of broccoli. Fresh veggies add vibrant color and flavor!
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Sauté Base: In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Cook Turkey: Next, add 1 pound of lean ground turkey to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula and cook it until it’s no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Vegetables: Incorporate the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and 1 cup of frozen peas. Stir everything together, then cover the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
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Finish with Sauce: Pour 1½ cups of teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetable mixture. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve: Scoop the cooked rice into bowls and generously top it with the savory teriyaki ground turkey stir-fry. Enjoy your meal immediately for the best flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Ground Turkey
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the teriyaki ground turkey fresh and tasty for your quick lunches or dinners.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This makes your teriyaki ground turkey quick to serve again!
Serving Note: Always check the texture of the vegetables after thawing; they may be softer but should still be delicious.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to streamline dinner prep! You can chop all your vegetables (onion, carrots, and broccoli) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the ground turkey and mix it with teriyaki sauce, refrigerating this mixture for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat everything in a pan, add the frozen peas, and follow the final steps to stir-fry until heated through. This method ensures you spend less time in the kitchen during hectic evenings while still enjoying a delicious homemade meal!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Ground Turkey
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Preheat the Pan: Ensure your pan is adequately heated before adding oil to prevent ingredients from sticking and promote even cooking.
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Watch Veggie Texture: Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should retain a vibrant color and slight crunch for the best texture in your teriyaki ground turkey stir-fry.
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Adjust Sauce Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of teriyaki sauce based on your taste preferences—more for sweetness and less for a lighter flavor.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and crisp vegetables when possible. This small change can significantly elevate the overall taste of your dish.
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Mix Up the Protein: Don’t hesitate to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if preferred; each variation offers its unique flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas?
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your stir-fry while completing your meal with delightful sides that enhance your dining experience.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The aromatic quality of jasmine rice perfectly complements the savory teriyaki sauce, absorbing every drop of deliciousness.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These provide a delightful crunch and fresh vegetables, adding a textural contrast that livens up your meal.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with a hint of garlic, these tender green beans offer a fresh and crisp flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the turkey stir-fry.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil offers a cooling balance to the sweet-savory turkey dish, refreshing your palate.
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Miso Soup: This warm broth adds depth to your meal, making it feel more like a cozy, satisfying dining experience straight from a Japanese kitchen.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light and fruity mango sorbet serves as a sweet finish, cleansing the palate after the savory main course.
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Iced Green Tea: Serve with a glass of refreshing iced green tea, bringing a hint of earthiness that complements the flavors of the stir-fry beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions for Teriyaki Ground Turkey
Looking to personalize your dish? There are plenty of delightful twists to consider!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute any added elements like butter or cheese with plant-based options to keep it light and healthy.
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Vegetable Mix-In: Add bell peppers or snap peas for a burst of color and extra crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor.
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Spice It Up: Include a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick that balances the sweet teriyaki sauce beautifully.
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Lower-Carb: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, creating a lighter, low-carb version without sacrificing taste.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of traditional teriyaki sauce to keep this dish gluten-free while still enjoying that savory flavor.
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Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by using less teriyaki sauce or opting for a homemade version with reduced sugar.
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Protein Alternatives: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative for a varied protein experience. Each brings its unique twist!
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Nut Butters: Stir in a teaspoon of peanut or almond butter for added creaminess and depth in flavor, reminiscent of Asian-inspired dishes.
Experiment with these variations to make this Teriyaki Ground Turkey dish uniquely yours!
Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your broccoli, look for florets that are dark green with a firm texture—avoid any yellowing or wilting. As for peppers or carrots, choose firm ones with a vibrant color; this ensures they are fresh and packed with flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Very important! Store your leftover teriyaki ground turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Of course! To freeze your teriyaki ground turkey, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date! When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat for best results.
What can I do if my vegetables are overcooked?
Oh no! If your veggies end up overcooked, try adding a fresh batch of greens or serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to add a pop of texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can toss in some raw snap peas or bean sprouts at the end for an extra crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, definitely! If you’re cooking for kids or anyone with allergies, be sure to note that teriyaki sauce often contains soy, which can be an allergen. Additionally, if pets are around, avoid letting them have any seasonings or sauces, as certain ingredients can be harmful to them.
What should I do if I can’t find ground turkey?
Not to worry! If ground turkey isn’t available, lean ground chicken or even ground beef can work wonderfully. You could also try a plant-based alternative like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, just ensure it’s well-marinated for flavor!
Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cooking 1½ cups of rice according to package instructions. This will serve as the delicious base for your stir-fry.
- While the rice cooks, shred 1 cup of carrots, chop 1½ cups of onion, mince 3 cloves of garlic, and chop 2 cups of broccoli.
- In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of lean ground turkey to the pan. Break it apart and cook it until it's no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and 1 cup of frozen peas. Stir and cover, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour 1½ cups of teriyaki sauce over the mixture. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Scoop the cooked rice into bowls and top with the teriyaki ground turkey stir-fry. Enjoy your meal immediately!