Ginger Peanut Butter Ground Turkey Stir Fry Recipe

Here’s a simple, flavorful weeknight dinner: Ginger and Peanut Butter Ground Turkey Stir-Fry. This quick recipe transforms ordinary ground turkey into a savory, slightly spicy, and nutty main course that pairs perfectly with rice or cauliflower rice. It’s high in protein, full of bright ginger and lime notes, and topped with fresh herbs for a refreshing finish. Ready in about 30 minutes, this is a great option to add to your regular dinner rotation.

If you think ground turkey is bland, try it with this sauce: creamy peanut butter, coconut aminos, lime juice, rice vinegar and toasted sesame oil with a touch of sriracha. The sauce creates a rich, balanced coating for the turkey and green onions, while fresh herbs—mint, Thai basil and cilantro—add brightness and depth. Serve it over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or neutral oil)
• 1 large shallot, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch knob of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
• 2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat preferred for flavor)
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
• Steamed white rice, for serving (or cauliflower rice)
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Fresh Thai basil leaves, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Step-by-step

Step 1 — Make the sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut aminos, lime juice, sriracha, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until smooth and well combined. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2 — Sauté the aromatics

Heat the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir frequently and cook just until softened, about 2 minutes—avoid browning or burning the aromatics.

Step 3 — Cook the turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet along with the kosher salt and black pepper. Break the meat up with the edge of a wooden spoon and cook until there is no pink remaining, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 4 — Add the sauce

Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the cooked turkey and stir in the sliced green onions. Continue to cook, stirring, until the turkey is evenly coated and the green onions are just tender, about 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning or heat as desired.

Step 5 — Garnish and serve

Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice or cauliflower rice. Top with fresh mint, Thai basil, and cilantro for fragrant, herbaceous notes. Leftovers store well and make an easy lunch the next day.

Recipe FAQs

Variations and tips

• For a milder heat, reduce or omit the sriracha and add a dash of honey for balance.
• Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer a different nut flavor or need a peanut-free option.
• Add vegetables—such as bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots—during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
• Use ground chicken or lean ground pork if you don’t have turkey on hand; adjust cooking time as needed.

Nutrition (approximate per serving)

Calories: 391 kcal; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Protein: 56 g; Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 1367 mg. Note: nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guideline.

Additional info

This Ginger and Peanut Butter Ground Turkey Stir-Fry is a quick, nourishing option when you want a satisfying meal with bold flavors and minimal fuss. Try it tonight and leave a comment to share how you customized it!

Photography credit: Eat Love Eats