Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make Korean-inspired ground turkey recipes, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner! Ground turkey is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be seasoned and cooked in countless ways. When combined with the bold flavors of Korean cuisine, it becomes a game-changer for busy home cooks.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Korea’s rich food culture, highlighting 20 recipes that showcase the perfect harmony between spicy and savory. From classic dishes like Bibimbap Bowls to innovative fusion recipes like Korean Ground Turkey Tacos with Sriracha Slaw, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
Whether you’re a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these 20 Spicy Korean Ground Turkey Recipes for Weeknights are sure to become your go-to guide for quick, easy, and flavorful meals all year round. So, let’s dive in and explore this incredible culinary world together!
Korean Ground Turkey Bibimbap Bowls
A modern twist on the classic Korean rice bowl dish, these bibimbap bowls feature flavorful ground turkey and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, cooked sunny-side up
– Optional: kimchi, toasted sesame seeds, and crispy garlic
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil to the turkey mixture; stir to combine.
4. Cook mixed vegetables in a separate pan with a little oil until tender-crisp.
5. Assemble bibimbap bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by the ground turkey mixture, and topped with mixed vegetables and a fried egg.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add kimchi, toasted sesame seeds, and crispy garlic for added flavor and texture (optional).
7. Cook time: 20-25 minutes.
Spicy Gochujang Ground Turkey Stir-Fry
Spicy Gochujang Ground Turkey Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang with the lean protein of ground turkey, creating a spicy and savory stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the gochujang, soy sauce, and honey to the turkey mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the chopped green onions, sliced bell peppers, and cooked brown rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over a bed of additional brown rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these Korean-inspired lettuce wraps combine savory ground turkey with a sweet and spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Optional: kimchi, pickled carrots, or other favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet; stir to combine.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture reaches your desired level of spiciness.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the wraps by spooning the turkey mixture onto a lettuce leaf, then topping with green onions and sesame seeds.
6. Add any desired toppings, such as kimchi or pickled carrots.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Fried Rice with Ground Turkey
This spicy fusion dish combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a classic fried rice. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes that will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the chopped kimchi and cooked rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Korean Tacos with Sriracha Slaw
Elevate your taco game with this bold and spicy fusion recipe, blending the flavors of Korea with the comfort of a classic taco. Crunchy slaw and tangy sriracha add a refreshing kick to tender ground turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sriracha Slaw ingredients (below)
Sriracha Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and green onions. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated and the turkey is cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the ground turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with Sriracha Slaw.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Rice Casserole
A fusion of Korean flavors with a classic casserole, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the comforting warmth of rice and kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and kimchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ground Turkey Japchae (Korean Glass Noodles)
This recipe combines the classic Korean dish, Japchae, with ground turkey for a protein-packed twist. The result is a flavorful and spicy noodle dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup Japchae noodles (dried glass noodles)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Japchae noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add ground turkey; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet; stir to combine with the turkey mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Dumplings (Mandu)
In this recipe, we’ll make a delicious and savory Korean-style dumpling filling with ground turkey, kimchi, and a hint of sesame oil. Serve these Mandu as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, kimchi, flour, water, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 10-12 minutes
– Pan-frying: 3-4 minutes per side
Spicy Ground Turkey Tteokbokki (Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes and spicy gochujang sauce. This twist adds ground turkey for added protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup gochujang sauce (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon Gochugaru-infused water (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide into small portions and shape into cylindrical cakes.
4. Pan-fry the cakes in oil until golden brown.
5. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with spatula.
6. Add garlic, ginger, gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and Korean chili flakes. Stir to combine.
7. Add Gochugaru-infused water and stir to thicken the sauce.
8. Serve hot with additional Gochugaru powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Bulgogi Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this twist on traditional bulgogi, featuring ground turkey and a sweet and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Serve the bulgogi over cooked white rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Vegetable Korean Pancakes (Jeon)
Experience the flavors of Korea with this savory pancake recipe, packed with ground turkey, vegetables, and a hint of ginger. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, zucchini, carrot, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg. Mix well.
2. Add flour and mix until just combined.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or a traditional Korean pan (jeon-gwa) with about 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until edges start to curl and surface is dry. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy recipe that combines the savory taste of Korean ground turkey with the crunch of fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and top with green onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
This hearty stew is a popular comfort food in Korea, made with ground turkey and a variety of vegetables. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini, etc.)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add ground turkey; cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink.
4. Add kimchi, mixed vegetables, beef broth, soy sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Tofu Soup (Soondubu Jjigae)
This hearty soup is a twist on the traditional Korean tofu stew, replacing pork with ground turkey for a leaner option. The creamy broth and soft tofu make it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the tofu, Gochujang, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey Korean BBQ Sliders
Experience the bold flavors of Korean BBQ in a compact, easy-to-eat package with these ground turkey sliders. Sweet and spicy, savory and umami, these bite-sized wonders are perfect for your next gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 8-10 slider buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickled carrots for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Grill the sliders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a patty on each bun, topping with green onions, lettuce, tomato, and pickled carrots if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Korean-style ground turkey sliders!
Korean Ground Turkey and Kimchi Fried Noodles
A flavorful fusion of Korean spices and savory ground turkey, served over a bed of crispy kimchi fried noodles. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both spicy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 cup noodles of your choice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and crispy garlic for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and kimchi to the turkey mixture. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and crispy garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Korean-Style Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the bold flavors of Korea! These savory bites combine ground turkey, Korean chili flakes, and crispy garlic for a taste bud explosion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, green onions, garlic, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with a drizzle of sesame oil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon)
A crispy and savory twist on the classic Korean pancake, this recipe combines juicy ground turkey with scallions and a hint of ginger. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped scallions, garlic, ginger, flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the turkey mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Korean Spicy Rice Cakes (Garaetteok)
Garaetteok, also known as Korean-style rice cakes, are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This recipe adds a spicy twist with ground turkey and Korean chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 egg
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, ground turkey, green onions, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and Korean chili flakes. Mix well.
2. Beat in the egg until the mixture is sticky.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size of cakes.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Fry the rice cakes until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the richness of ground turkey with the bold spices of Korean cuisine, served over a bed of fluffy rice. A quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced onion and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 mouth-watering Korean-inspired ground turkey recipes! From classic bibimbap bowls to kimchi fried rice and tteokbokki, there’s something for everyone. Try making Korean-style tacos with sriracha slaw, dumplings (mandu), or stuffed peppers. Or go all out with a bulgogi bowl or spicy ground turkey stew (budae jjigae). Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a flavorful twist on traditional dishes, these recipes will have you cooking up a Korean storm in no time!
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