If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pack of ground turkey and wondering what to do with it, I’ve got the answer: this honey garlic ground turkey recipe. It’s the kind of dish that gets rave reviews at my dinner table, and trust me, that’s not easy with a husband who notices every single spice.
This one-pan wonder is fast, flavorful, and hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, saucy, and just a little sticky. I threw it together on a weeknight when we were both too tired to cook anything elaborate, and now? It’s in our weekly rotation. It’s the recipe that made my husband pause mid-bite and say, “You could open a restaurant with this.” That’s when I knew it had to go on Dailycious Recipes.
Whether you’re short on time or just craving something satisfying without turning on the oven, this honey garlic turkey recipe is your new go-to.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe
First off, it’s fast. From skillet to table in under 25 minutes; no chopping a dozen veggies or dirtying multiple pans. Just a handful of ingredients and a whole lot of flavor.
Second, it’s a balance of bold and sweet. The honey and soy sauce caramelize beautifully with garlic and ground turkey, giving you that crave-worthy glossy finish without needing to deep fry anything.
Third, it’s a weeknight savior. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or ravenous adults, this dish earns empty plates and requests for seconds. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free with easy dairy-free options.
Want something just as easy with a richer twist? Try this Creamy Turkey Stroganoff next, it’s a cozy bowl of comfort.
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Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe
Quick, sweet, and savory honey garlic ground turkey is your new weeknight go-to, done in under 25 minutes!
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
3. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the sauce over the turkey and simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
You can swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar.
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this honey garlic ground turkey stir-fry:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey (lean) | 1 lb |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Honey | 3 tbsp |
| Soy sauce (or tamari) | ¼ cup |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Green onions & sesame seeds | For garnish (optional) |
Looking for another way to stretch your turkey? This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is hearty and full of veggies.
How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Turkey
- Step 1: In a large skillet, add a splash of oil and brown the ground turkey over medium-high heat until fully cooked and slightly crispy.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour over the turkey.
- Step 4: Let the sauce simmer for 4–5 minutes, until it thickens and coats the meat.
- Step 5: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or wrapped in lettuce cups.
For a holiday-worthy turkey twist, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast brings festive flair with zero fuss.
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add 1 tsp sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
- Low-carb option: Serve it over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce cups.
- No honey? Swap with maple syrup or brown sugar in a pinch.
- Double the sauce: If you love things extra saucy (who doesn’t?), go ahead and double the sauce ingredients.
- Add veggies: Toss in broccoli, shredded carrots, or snap peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Need a cozier option with cheesy goodness? This Turkey Broccoli Casserole is the one to bookmark for cooler nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken instead?
Yes! This recipe works just as well with ground chicken. It’s equally lean and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or stovetop.
Can I freeze this honey garlic turkey?
Absolutely. Let it cool, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
What can I serve it with besides rice?
Try quinoa, soba noodles, or even stuffed inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It’s incredibly versatile.
Love garlic-forward recipes? You’ll swoon for this buttery Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin, it’s packed with richness.
Final Thoughts
This honey garlic ground turkey recipe has become one of our weeknight staples, and for good reason. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and the kind of dish you can tweak based on whatever’s in your fridge. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just need a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this recipe is a no-fuss favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
