Ground turkey has become a staple in many households, and for good reason. This Korean-Style Ground Turkey Recipe encapsulates everything delicious about quick, easy weeknight meals while bringing a touch of global flair to your dinner table. The savory soy sauce combined with ginger, garlic, and a hint of spice makes for a dish that’s flavorful yet uncomplicated—a go-to for busy parents or anyone craving a satisfying meal packed with taste.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Korean-style ground turkey recipe isn’t just about great flavors; it’s also a breeze to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds! It’s an excellent dish for family dinners, meal prep, or even an impromptu gathering with friends. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—using ground turkey instead of pricier proteins can help you save money while still putting a delicious meal on the table.
"This recipe has changed my weeknight dinners! The flavors are just amazing, and it’s so quick to make. My kids actually love it!" – A satisfied home cook.
How this recipe comes together
Making this delightful Korean-style ground turkey dish is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. You’ll start by preparing a flavorful sauce featuring soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and chili flakes. Once that’s ready, sauté some ginger and garlic in sesame oil to make your kitchen smell irresistible. After that, it’s all about cooking the ground turkey until it’s perfectly browned before adding in your sauce mixture. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning and savory meal that bursts with flavor!
What you’ll need
Gathering the ingredients for this ground turkey recipe is simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 15 oz / 450g ground turkey
- 6 tbsp chives (chopped, with some reserved for garnishing)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Feel free to customize this with ingredients you already have at home—substituting with tamari for a gluten-free version, or even swapping turkey for chicken!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Mix until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then set this mixture aside.
- Drizzle sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up into small chunks. Cook until there’s no raw pink color left.
- Pour in the soy sauce mixture, keeping the heat high. Stir for another 2 minutes until the sauce turns golden brown and starts to thicken (add a tablespoon of water if it becomes too thick). Toss in chives, reserving some for garnish, and turn off the heat.
- Top with sesame seeds and any remaining chopped chives. Serve hot over rice and alongside your favorite steamed vegetables.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once you’ve plated your savory Korean-style ground turkey, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables chock-full of color and nutrients. You could also get creative by serving it in lettuce wraps for a fun, handheld meal or even spooning it over quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. Pair it with a light salad or kimchi to round out the experience and add a fresh crunch!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers—lucky you! Store the ground turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meal. Just ensure it’s cooled completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through, avoiding any food safety issues by ensuring it’s steaming hot.
Helpful cooking tips
- Timing is key: Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting to cook, as the process moves quickly.
- Don’t skip the chives: They add a burst of color and a fresh onion flavor that complements the richer elements of the dish.
- Adjust the spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, you can lower the amount of chili flakes, or even omit them entirely for a milder version that still packs a flavor punch.
Creative twists
Experimenting with this recipe can lead to some delicious results! Try adding finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms while cooking the turkey for more texture. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, drizzle some sriracha or add a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste) into the sauce. For a healthier option, swap the ground turkey with plant-based protein for a vegetarian take!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners.
Can I substitute ground turkey for something else?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work beautifully in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Make sure to store your leftovers in airtight containers. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Always reheat thoroughly to ensure food safety!
Korean-Style Ground Turkey
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Mix until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then set this mixture aside.
- Drizzle sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up into small chunks. Cook until there’s no raw pink color left.
- Pour in the soy sauce mixture, keeping the heat high. Stir for another 2 minutes until the sauce turns golden brown and starts to thicken (add a tablespoon of water if it becomes too thick).
- Toss in chives, reserving some for garnish, and turn off the heat.
- Top with sesame seeds and any remaining chopped chives. Serve hot over rice and alongside your favorite steamed vegetables.