Ground Turkey Recipe (Korean-Style)

This Korean-style ground turkey recipe is a simple, savory dish infused with bold Asian-inspired flavors. With a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame, this quick recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner served with rice and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes.
• Packed with savory, slightly spicy, and sweet flavors.
• Healthy and high in protein, made with lean ground turkey.
• Versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
• Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ tablespoon brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 15 oz (450 g) ground turkey
• 6 tablespoons chives, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1: Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and red chili flakes until the cornstarch is dissolved. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with sesame oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
• Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it into small chunks with a wooden spoon and cook until the turkey is no longer pink.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

• Stir in the soy sauce mixture and increase the heat to high. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes golden brown. If the sauce becomes too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water to loosen it.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Stir in the chopped chives, reserving some for garnish. Turn off the heat.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with the reserved chives. Serve hot with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 11g
• Sodium: 869mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Variations

• Spicier Version: Increase the red chili flakes or add a splash of gochujang (Korean chili paste).
• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground turkey with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat.
• Additional Vegetables: Toss in shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the turkey mixture in butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Rice Bowl: Add a fried egg and pickled vegetables for a delicious Korean-inspired rice bowl.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I substitute fresh ginger with ground ginger?

Yes, but use only ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger as it is more concentrated.

4. What type of soy sauce should I use?

Use regular soy sauce for a classic flavor. For a less salty option, use low-sodium soy sauce.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Cook the turkey and store it in the fridge; reheat and serve when ready.

6. How can I make this dish sweeter?

Increase the amount of brown sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey.

7. Can I add rice noodles instead of rice?

Absolutely! Toss cooked rice noodles into the skillet for a hearty noodle dish.

8. What can I use as a garnish besides sesame seeds?

Try crushed peanuts, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all the ingredients for larger portions. Cook in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.

10. How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?

Cook it over medium heat and avoid overcooking. The soy sauce mixture also helps keep it moist.

Conclusion

This Korean-style ground turkey recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy bold Asian flavors in a quick, healthy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables. With its rich, savory sauce and hints of spice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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