Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! With these 18 spicy Korean ground turkey recipes, you’ll be able to spice up your dinner routine and impress your family and friends. From classic dishes like bibimbap bowls and kimchi fried rice, to innovative creations like tacos and stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In this article, we’ll explore the bold flavors and vibrant colors of Korean cuisine, using ground turkey as a base ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire new culinary adventures. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of spicy Korean ground turkey dishes!
Korean Ground Turkey Bibimbap Bowls
A twist on the classic Korean rice bowl dish, this recipe adds a boost of protein and flavor with ground turkey. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus more for garnish
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers)
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, green onions, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Divide cooked rice into four bowls. Top each bowl with the ground turkey mixture, mixed vegetables, and a fried egg (beaten and cooked in a non-stick pan).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Gochujang Ground Turkey Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with the savory taste of ground turkey for a quick and easy dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add gochujang, soy sauce, honey, green onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and healthy Korean-inspired wrap recipe! This dish combines the richness of ground turkey with the bold flavors of Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the turkey mixture among the lettuce leaves, topping with chopped green onions if desired.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, if using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Kimchi Fried Rice
This recipe combines the comfort of fried rice with the bold flavors of kimchi and ground turkey. A perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chopped kimchi and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Push the mixture to one side of the pan; add cooked rice and stir-fry until combined with the meat mixture.
6. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean-Style Ground Turkey Tacos
Elevate your taco game with a flavorful fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine! This recipe combines juicy ground turkey with spicy Gochujang, crunchy kimchi slaw, and crispy tacos shells for a unique twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chopped kimchi
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Add to the turkey mixture and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with kimchi slaw (see note).
6. Serve immediately, with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Ground Turkey Bulgogi
Sweet and Spicy Ground Turkey Bulgogi: A Twist on a Korean Classic!
This recipe combines the rich flavors of bulgogi (Korean-style marinated beef) with the savory taste of ground turkey, adding a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the ground turkey mixture, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Rice Cakes
Experience the flavors of Korea with these crispy rice cakes filled with savory ground turkey. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground turkey, green onions, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When oil is hot, add rice cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of cakes you make.
Ground Turkey Japchae with Glass Noodles
A twist on the classic Korean dish, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground turkey and vegetables with the chewy texture of glass noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz glass noodles
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked glass noodles and combine with the turkey and vegetable mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Dumplings (Mandu)
A classic Korean comfort food, Mandu are crispy on the outside and savory inside. This recipe uses ground turkey instead of pork or beef for a leaner twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the turkey mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the dumplings until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including preparation and frying time)
Ground Turkey and Tofu Kimchi Stew
A flavorful and spicy Korean-inspired stew that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the creamy texture of tofu and the bold heat of kimchi. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or vegetable broth for thinning
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the crumbled tofu and cook until heated through.
3. Stir in the chopped kimchi, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Thin the stew with water or vegetable broth if desired.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
This flavorful dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory spices of Korean cuisine. Ground turkey is cooked with aromatic garlic and ginger, then stuffed into roasted peppers for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, ginger, chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Vegetable Pancakes (Jeon)
These crispy and savory pancakes are a popular Korean street food that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. By combining ground turkey with colorful vegetables, you’ll create a flavorful and healthy dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– All-purpose flour for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, zucchini, mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Dust both sides of the pancakes with flour.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Udon Noodle Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of ground turkey with the comforting warmth of udon noodles, all wrapped up in a savory Korean-inspired broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups udon noodles
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and Gochujang. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey and Rice Bowl (Deopbap)
This Korean-inspired dish combines spicy ground turkey with flavorful rice, crunchy vegetables, and a fried egg for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the turkey mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Crack an egg into the skillet and scramble it with the turkey mixture.
6. Serve the spicy ground turkey mixture over cooked rice in a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This spicy and savory stir-fry combines the flavors of Korea with the comfort of a familiar ground turkey dish. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and umami, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the sliced eggplant and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in the garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon)
A flavorful twist on traditional Korean pajeon, these crispy pancakes are packed with savory ground turkey and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, flour, cornstarch, and chopped scallions. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
2. Add the egg and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Flatten each portion of dough into a disk shape and add to the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size).
Korean Ground Turkey and Zucchini Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Korean chili flakes with the freshness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add sliced zucchini, minced garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry until zucchini is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil and sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Turkey and Bean Sprout Bibimbap
Bibimbap, a popular Korean dish, gets a delicious twist with the addition of ground turkey and bean sprouts. This recipe combines the classic flavors of bibimbap with the nutritious benefits of turkey and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed bean sprouts (such as mung beans and black soybeans)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a pan until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the bean sprouts with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until tender.
3. Divide cooked white rice into bowls.
4. Top each bowl with cooked ground turkey, bean sprouts, scallions, and bell peppers.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Korean cuisine meets weeknight dinner with these 18 spicy Korean ground turkey recipes. From bibimbap bowls to tacos, and from stir-fries to fried rice, there’s something for everyone. Explore creative combinations like gochujang ground turkey stir-fry, kimchi fried rice, and bulgogi-style ground turkey with sweet and spicy flavors. Plus, discover new ways to use ground turkey in dishes like dumplings, pancakes, and noodle soup. These recipes are sure to add some heat and excitement to your meal routine.