There’s something comforting about hearing the soft sizzle of garlic hitting a warm skillet. That sound instantly takes me back to Nonna’s kitchen; the place where I first learned that food wasn’t just about taste; it was about care. This Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe was inspired by one of those moments. I’d just moved into my first apartment and was craving something simple yet packed with flavor. With a handful of pantry staples; honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ground turkey, I recreated that feeling of warmth and home. Now, it’s one of my go-to weeknight dinners; quick, sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying. If you love balance in every bite, this dish will be your new favorite comfort food.
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Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe
If you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels homemade, this Honey Garlic Turkey Recipe checks every box. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses only one pan, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the savory garlic and umami soy sauce, creating a glaze that clings perfectly to the tender turkey. Plus, it’s healthier than takeout and perfect for meal prep. Serve it over rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying dinner. If you’re into easy yet elegant dishes, you’ll also love my Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin, it shares the same bold garlic flavor in a heartier form.
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Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe
Sweet, savory, and ready in 30 minutes, this Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe is perfect for weeknights. A healthy, one-pan meal with tender ground turkey coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
2 green onions, chopped
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Pour over the cooked turkey.
5. Simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Stir in green onions, top with sesame seeds, and serve warm over rice or noodles.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
Pair with steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Honey Garlic Ground Turkey dish to life:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 lb (93% lean) |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 |
| Soy sauce (low sodium) | 3 tbsp |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Green onions | 2 (chopped) |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tsp (optional) |
For a hearty family dinner, pair this with my Turkey Broccoli Casserole, both are easy and meal-prep friendly.
How to Make It
- Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Pour the mixture over the cooked turkey.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish: Stir in green onions, sprinkle sesame seeds, and serve warm.
If you love saucy meals, my Creamy Turkey Stroganoff is another easy one-pan dinner with similar comforting vibes.
Tips and Variations
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha for a kick.
- Add veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to make it a complete meal.
- Thicken the sauce: Mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with water and stir it in for a thicker glaze.
- Swap proteins: Try it with chicken or beef for a twist.
- Meal prep tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen beautifully over time.
For another easy ground meat favorite, check out my Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make honey garlic ground turkey ahead of time?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with honey garlic turkey?
Steamed rice, jasmine rice, or noodles are perfect. You can also serve it with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken works just as well and gives a slightly lighter texture.
How do I thicken honey garlic sauce?
Add a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water) and stir until glossy and thickened.
Final Bite
This Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel effortless yet special. It’s quick, family-friendly, and full of flavor that lingers long after the last bite. From weeknight dinners to weekend cravings, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. If you’re looking for another sweet-savory dish with similar charm, my Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast will be your next favorite.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
