Easy Thai Basil Ground Turkey Stir-Fry – Quick & Flavorful Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Ground Turkey Stir-Fry

A Flavor Explosion in Just 20 Minutes!

Craving a restaurant-quality Thai dish but short on time? This Easy Thai Basil Ground Turkey Stir-Fry is your answer! Bursting with bold flavors, tender ground turkey, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh Thai basil, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver. It’s faster than takeout, healthier than deep-fried alternatives, and packed with so much flavor, you’ll forget it took just 20 minutes to make.

Thai cuisine is all about balance—sweet, spicy, salty, and savory—and this stir-fry nails it. The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just a hot pan, a handful of pantry staples, and a craving for something delicious.

If you loved my Beef and Pumpkin Curry – The Best Comfort Recipe for All Seasons, you’ll adore this recipe. It’s just as quick but with a lighter, protein-packed twist. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!


What is Thai Basil Ground Turkey?

Ever wondered why Thai basil is the star of so many dishes? It’s not your average sweet basil—it’s bolder, slightly peppery, and adds an irresistible depth to stir-fries. And when paired with ground turkey? Magic happens.

This dish is like a flavor-packed hug in a bowl. The ground turkey soaks up the umami-rich sauce, while Thai basil brings that fresh, aromatic punch. Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but honestly, this dish wins over everyone—kids, picky eaters, even that friend who claims they don’t like turkey.

So why is it called Thai Basil Ground Turkey? Because it’s simple, honest, and straight to the point—no fancy names needed when the flavors speak for themselves. Ready to taste the magic? Let’s make it!


Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Ground Turkey

1. Quick & Effortless (Perfect for Busy Nights!)

No marinating, no fuss—just 20 minutes from pan to plate. If you can stir, you can make this dish.

2. Budget-Friendly & Healthier Than Takeout

Ground turkey is leaner than beef and often cheaper. Skip the $15 takeout bill—this homemade version tastes better and saves you cash.

3. Bold, Addictive Flavors

The combo of garlic, chilies, fish sauce, and Thai basil creates a sweet-spicy-savory explosion. Top it with a fried egg for extra richness!

If you enjoyed my Thai Drunken Noodles, you’ll love this just as much. Both are quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

Hungry yet? Let’s cook!


How to Make Thai Basil Ground Turkey

Thai Basil Ground Turkey
Thai Basil Ground Turkey

Quick Overview

Ready in 20 minutes
One-pan wonder (less cleanup!)
Customizable spice level

Key Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey (or chicken/pork)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 Thai chilies (adjust for spice)
1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 cup Thai basil leaves
1 tbsp oil (vegetable or coconut)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan. Add garlic and chilies, stir 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook Turkey: Add ground turkey, breaking it up until browned (5-6 mins).
3. Season: Stir in fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
4. Finish with Basil: Toss in Thai basil until wilted (1 min).
5. Serve Hot! Over rice or noodles.


What to Serve With Thai Basil Ground Turkey

This dish is incredibly versatile! For a complete meal, pair it with:
Jasmine rice (absorbs the sauce perfectly)
Crispy veggie spring rolls (for crunch)
Quick cucumber salad (cool, refreshing contrast)
Thai iced tea (sweet balance to the spice)

Want more pairing ideas? Check out my Peach Mango Salsa – The Best Sweet & Spicy Summer Dip (2025 Guide) for a bright, tangy side!


Top Tips for Perfecting This Dish

Use fresh Thai basil (regular basil won’t give the same flavor).
Don’t skip the fish sauce—it’s the secret umami booster.
Like it spicier? Add extra chilies or a dash of sriracha.
Vegetarian? Swap turkey for tofu or mushrooms.


Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Microwave or stir-fry with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.


People Also Ask: Thai Basil Ground Turkey

Thai Basil Ground Turkey
Thai Basil Ground Turkey

What kind of basil should I use for Thai basil turkey?

Thai basil (horapha) is essential—it has a licorice-like flavor. Regular sweet basil won’t give the same depth. Find it at Asian markets or grow your own!

What makes Thai basil turkey spicy?

Thai chilies (or bird’s eye chilies) bring the heat. Remove seeds for milder spice, or use jalapeños as a substitute.

What is fish sauce and is there an alternative?

Fish sauce adds salty umami. For a substitute, use soy sauce + a pinch of sugar or coconut aminos.

How is Thai basil turkey traditionally served?

In Thailand, it’s often served with jasmine rice and a fried egg for extra richness.


Conclusion: Thai Basil Ground Turkey

This Thai Basil Ground Turkey Stir-Fry is a foolproof way to bring bold flavors to your table fast. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a hungry family, it’s a guaranteed hit.

Pro tip: Double the batch—leftovers taste even better the next day!

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Thai Basil Ground Turkey

Thai Basil Ground Turkey


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A quick and flavorful Thai-inspired dish made with ground turkey, fresh basil, garlic, and a savory sauce perfect for serving over rice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chili.
  5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the turkey is fully coated in the sauce.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh Thai basil until wilted.
  7. Serve hot over jasmine rice.

Notes

For extra flavor, add sliced bell peppers or green beans. Adjust chili for desired spice level.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: thai basil, ground turkey, quick dinner, healthy, asian recipe

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