Only have ground turkey and no dinner plan? This flavor-packed ground turkey stir fry turns simple fridge staples into a fast, healthy, and satisfying weeknight meal everyone will love.
Only Have Ground Turkey? Make This Flavor-Packed Stir Fry
Some nights, dinner starts with standing in front of the fridge, staring at what’s inside, and hoping inspiration strikes. You’ve got ground turkey… and not much else that sounds exciting. You could make burgers. You could make tacos. But sometimes, you just want something different.
That’s exactly how this flavor-packed ground turkey stir fry came to be. It’s my go-to “use what I have” dinner that turns a basic protein into something colorful, cozy, and completely crave-worthy. With a quick homemade sauce, fresh veggies, and a handful of my Asian pantry staples, this meal comes together fast — and give you much more variety than another turkey burger.
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with ground turkey that isn’t boring, this easy stir fry might just become your new weeknight favorite.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
This stir fry is built around easy, flexible ingredients you probably already have — with a sauce that brings everything together in the best way.
For the Stir Fry Sauce
- Chicken Broth – Creates a savory base without being heavy
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor
- Maple Syrup – Balances the salty sauce with gentle sweetness
- Rice Vinegar – Brightens everything up
- Chili Paste (Sambal Oelek) – Adds gentle heat (adjust to taste)
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Gives that classic stir fry aroma
- Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and freshness
- Garlic Powder – Boosts savory flavor
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce so it coats every bite
For the Stir Fry
- Ground Turkey – Lean, versatile, and perfect for quick dinners
- Mini Sweet Peppers – Add color and natural sweetness
- Zucchini – Light, tender, and great for soaking up sauce
- Green Onions – Adds fresh onion flavor without overpowering
- Edamame – Boosts protein and texture
- Cashews – Adds crunch and richness
- Canola Oil – For high-heat cooking
- Salt & Pepper – Simple seasoning goes a long way
- Sesame Seeds – For garnish
- Hot Rice – The perfect base for soaking up the sauce
-- Let’s Make It Together
This stir fry comes together quickly once you start, so it helps to have everything ready.
Step 1: Make the Sauce - In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey - Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook while crumbling until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables - Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Add peppers, zucchini, and the white parts of the green onions. Cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cashews and toast briefly.
Step 4: Bring It All Together - Return turkey to the skillet. Add edamame and pour in the sauce. Stir until everything is coated and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Finish and Serve - Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops. Serve hot over rice.
-- Perfecting the Cooking Process
The key to great texture in this stir fry is cooking each component separately first. Browning the turkey before adding vegetables keeps it juicy instead of steamed, while letting the sauce thicken at the end ensures every bite is glossy, flavorful, and well-balanced.
-- Add Your Touch
This recipe is very forgiving — feel free to make it your own.
Try adding:
- Broccoli or snap peas
- Mushrooms
- Water chestnuts
- Bell peppers
- A squeeze of lime at the end
You can also swap rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Set the Mood
If ground turkey is a regular in your fridge, this stir fry is one recipe you’ll want in your back pocket. It’s fast, flexible, and endlessly satisfying — perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade.
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Before You Start
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Can I make this ahead? Yes, it reheats well for up to 3 days.
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Is it spicy? This is mild as written — you can adjust chili paste to taste.
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Can I freeze it? The sauce freezes well, but veggies will soften after thawing.
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What pan works best? A wide skillet or wok will give you the best results.
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Can I use frozen veggies? Yes, just thaw and drain first.
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How do I keep it from getting watery? Cook veggies hot and fast and don’t overcrowd the pan.
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