Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli Recipe
If you’re anything like me, finding a wholesome meal that’s as quick as it is flavorful feels like striking culinary gold. This Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli is just that jackpot: a vibrant, weeknight-friendly dinner packed with lean protein, crisp-tender veggies, and an irresistible savory sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re new to stir fries or searching for a dinner idea that appeals to the whole family, this dish delivers a perfect harmony of taste and nutrition—and best of all, it comes together in under half an hour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things beautifully straightforward—each ingredient has a starring role, lending color, crunch, or depth to the skillet. Don’t shy away from a substitution or two; that’s part of what makes stir fries so fun and versatile!
- Ground turkey: The lean, mild base that soaks up every bit of savory-sweet sauce.
- Sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Adds a nutty, toasty undertone that’s classic in Asian-style stir fries.
- Broccoli florets: Bring bold color and a snappy bite; perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Red bell pepper, sliced: Sweetness and a splash of red make the dish pop visually.
- Garlic cloves, minced: A must for that irresistible aroma and deep flavor.
- Fresh ginger, grated: Bright, zesty spice that wakes up every ingredient.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Savory, salty foundation for the sauce—using low-sodium helps you control the salt level.
- Hoisin sauce: Thick, tangy, and sweet; it’s a secret weapon for flavor depth.
- Rice vinegar: Just a splash livens up the sauce with a gentle tanginess.
- Honey (optional): Rounds out the flavors with a subtle, balancing sweetness.
- Cornstarch mixed with water: This quick slurry thickens the sauce so it hugs the veggies and turkey.
- Green onions, chopped: A fresh, peppery garnish that adds color and crunch.
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Nutty, delicate finishing touch for visual and textural contrast.
- Cooked rice, for serving: The perfect partner—it soaks up every aromatic drop of sauce.
How to Make Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli
Step 1: Brown the Turkey
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground turkey. Break it up using the back of a spoon and let it cook for about 6–8 minutes, until no pink remains and the meat is lightly browned. This first step builds that irresistible savory base for your Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli. Once done, scoop the turkey onto a plate and set it aside—you’ll welcome it back soon!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet (add another glug of oil if the pan looks dry), toss in the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Let them sizzle and soften for 4–5 minutes—you’re looking for the veggies to be vibrant and just tender, not mushy. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for another minute until your kitchen smells like pure magic.
Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce
While the veggies are cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), and the cornstarch-water slurry. This is where that glossy, flavor-packed sauce comes together, marrying savory, sweet, and tangy elements in perfect proportion.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the browned turkey to the skillet with the veggies. Pour the sauce over the mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Let it bubble away for another 2–3 minutes; you’ll notice the sauce thickening and clinging to every piece of turkey and vegetable. It’s the moment when your Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli really comes alive!
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and a generous pinch of sesame seeds across the top. Serve this glorious, saucy stir fry immediately over steamed rice, and enjoy every nourishing bite.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the difference a sprinkle of freshness can make! Bright green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds add crunch and color. If you like some heat, a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce are fantastic choices.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is delicious enough to stand alone atop a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Craving more variety? Try pairing it with steamed jasmine rice, nutty quinoa, or even lettuce cups for a fun, lighter twist. A simple cucumber salad or miso soup on the side elevates the whole meal into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family-style meals, pile the Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli onto a vibrant serving platter. Or, go interactive—serve it in lettuce wraps for build-your-own bites. Mason jars work for meal prepped lunches, keeping everything saucy and crisp until you’re ready to dive in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. The flavor actually gets even better after a night in the fridge, as the sauce and veggies meld. Stored properly, this dish stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli freezes beautifully. Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, ideally without the rice, for up to 2 months. Just press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn for best results.
Reheating
When you’re ready for round two, reheat your stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring in between for even warmth. Either way, those flavors will revive beautifully!
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or ground beef are excellent swaps if that’s what you have on hand. Both bring their own distinct character; just watch for higher fat content with beef and drain any excess grease before proceeding.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli can easily be made gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensuring your hoisin sauce is labeled gluten-free. Serve over rice and you’re all set.
What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Don’t hesitate to swap in snap peas, green beans, zucchini, mushrooms, or shredded carrots—whatever is lurking in your fridge will probably work! Just slice to similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I make Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli ahead of time?
Definitely! This stir fry holds up well in the fridge and can be meal prepped for busy weekdays. Simply store individual portions with rice in airtight containers and reheat as needed for a speedy, satisfying meal.
Is it possible to make the dish spicier?
If you like a little kick, try stirring in sriracha, sambal oelek, or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also pass spicy condiments at the table so everyone can adjust the heat to taste.
Final Thoughts
I honestly can’t wait for you to try this Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli—it’s just the kind of recipe that turns a busy night into an opportunity for something nourishing, colorful, and full of flavor. Give it a go and see how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!
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Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Ground Turkey Stir Fry with Broccoli recipe that is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. This Asian-inspired dish is packed with protein and vegetables, all coated in a delicious savory sauce.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
Vegetables:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil and cook turkey: Heat oil in a skillet, cook and break up turkey until browned.
- Sauté vegetables: Sauté broccoli and bell pepper, then add garlic and ginger.
- Add sauce and cooked turkey: Return turkey to skillet, add sauce, and cook until thickened.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve over rice.
Notes
- For added heat, stir in red pepper flakes or sriracha.
- Broccoli can be substituted with green beans, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (without rice)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
