Dinner

Teriyaki Ground Turkey Bowl Recipe

Bymia larkspur April 18, 2026April 18, 2026

Introduction

This Teriyaki Ground Turkey Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground turkey is cooked in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, then served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for a satisfying dinner.

A black round bowl holds a meal with three layers: on the left, a thick layer of white cooked rice with a soft texture; on the right side of the bowl, bright green cooked snap peas are neatly placed vertically; in the front and center, a large portion of dark glazed chicken pieces covered in sesame seeds and small fresh green herb leaves. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface scattered with small dishes holding black peppercorns, garlic cloves, coarse salt, and broccoli florets arranged around the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups cooked rice
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Step 2: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
Step 5: While the turkey is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
Step 6: In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until fully dissolved to create a slurry.
Step 7: Once the turkey is cooked, pour the soy sauce mixture over the turkey and stir to combine.
Step 8: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 9: Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet while stirring to thicken the sauce. Continue simmering for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 10: If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir to combine, adjusting to your heat preference.
Step 11: Serve the teriyaki ground turkey over the cooked rice, dividing it into bowls.
Step 12: Garnish each bowl with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Step 13: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Teriyaki Ground Turkey Bowl!

Tips & Variations

For extra veggies, add bell peppers or snap peas while cooking the onions.
Use ground chicken or pork as an alternative to turkey for a different flavor.
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar by a tablespoon.
Serve with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage

Store leftover teriyaki ground turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. The cooked rice can be stored separately and reheated similarly.

How to Serve

A black bowl with three main layers is shown on a white marbled surface: the bottom layer is white steamed rice, soft and fluffy, filling most of the bowl; the second layer is a generous amount of cooked minced meat with a dark brown sauce, spread evenly over the rice; the top layer consists of small bright green broccoli florets placed around the edge, with some fresh green parsley leaves sprinkled on top of the meat for garnish; around the bowl are whole broccoli pieces, an orange, two small black bowls of colorful peppercorns and coarse salt, and a gray and white checkered cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

How can I reduce the sodium in this dish?

Use a low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of added salt if you add any. You can also rinse the cooked turkey briefly before adding the sauce to remove excess saltiness, though this is optional.