Ground Turkey And Vegetable Stir Fry

Name: Ground Turkey And Vegetable Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Table Classics

I truly enjoy making this Ground Turkey and Vegetable Stir Fry because it’s both healthy and satisfying. The combination of ground turkey and fresh vegetables creates a nourishing meal that’s ready in just a flash. It’s a go-to dish on busy weeknights for my family since it is packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, I love how versatile this recipe is—swapping in seasonal veggies makes each stir-fry unique while keeping the preparation simple and stress-free.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:13:35.570Z

One evening, after a long day, I wanted a quick yet nutritious dinner. Digging into my fridge, I found some ground turkey and assorted vegetables that were just waiting to be used. I decided to whip up a stir fry and discovered how easily flavors blend when cooked on high heat with a little oil. It became an instant favorite in my home!

One tip I learned is to use a mixture of fresh and frozen vegetables. They add great texture and flavor while cutting down on prep time. You can customize this dish by adding your favorite sauces or seasonings—each time I make it, it feels like a new meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make on busy evenings
Packed with vegetables for a healthy meal
Versatile—easy to customize with different spices and sauces

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this Ground Turkey and Vegetable Stir Fry lies in its versatility. You can use a combination of fresh or even frozen vegetables according to your preference. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while broccoli contributes a satisfying bite and nourishment. Carrots not only enhance the color but also provide a hint of sweetness that balances the savory turkey. If you have seasonal vegetables like snap peas or zucchini on hand, feel free to swap them in for an exciting twist.

When selecting your vegetables, aim for a variety of colors and textures. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also enhances the flavor profile. For instance, using vibrant bell peppers alongside earthy mushrooms can create depth in flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times, as different vegetables may need varying lengths to become tender. For example, denser vegetables like carrots may take longer than delicate options like spinach.

Perfecting Your Stir Fry Technique

A key to a successful stir fry is high heat combined with quick cooking. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the sesame oil, as this helps to sear the turkey quickly, sealing in the juices. I recommend using a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned wok to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. Stir the mixture frequently to ensure all ingredients get a chance to brown slightly, enhancing their flavors.

When adding the vegetables, remember the order of addition is crucial. Firm vegetables like bell peppers and carrots should be added before more delicate items to prevent overcooking. Maintain the vibrant colors and crispness by stirring gently but consistently. Aim for about 3-5 minutes of cooking time once the vegetables are added; they should be bright and slightly tender yet still have a bit of crunch for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful stir fry!

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Make sure to prep your ingredients before starting to cook for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious stir fry.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the ground turkey and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Once the turkey is browned, add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Finish with Sauce

Pour the soy sauce over the mixture and toss to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve

Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy your homemade stir fry!

Enjoy your meal and consider garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chili flakes or a splash of rice vinegar just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to modify this recipe for dietary restrictions, turkey can be substituted with ground chicken or lean beef for a similar texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tofu or tempeh, sautéed until golden. Just be sure to adapt cooking times as necessary—softer proteins may require less time to cook thoroughly than turkey.

For the soy sauce, tamari can be used for a gluten-free version, while coconut aminos offers a soy-free alternative that still delivers depth of flavor. If you enjoy a touch of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to your sauce mix for an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stir fry is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the turkey and vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of soy sauce or a touch of sesame oil to revitalize the flavors.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked stir fry. Portion it out in meal-sized containers, and it can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just keep in mind that some vegetables might become a bit softer after thawing, but the stir fry will still be delicious and nutritious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or tofu are great alternatives.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to include your favorites, such as snap peas or zucchini.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

It's perfect with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.