I remember the first time I tried lettuce wraps. It was at a local restaurant, and I was skeptical about using lettuce instead of a traditional wrap or tortilla. But after that first bite, I was hooked. The crunch of the fresh lettuce paired with the savory filling was so satisfying and light. Not long after, I decided to try making them at home using ground turkey, and it quickly became one of my favorite weeknight meals.
The great thing about ground turkey lettuce wraps is that they’re not only delicious but they’re also easy to make. The filling is full of flavor, and the lettuce provides the perfect crunchy texture. Over time, I’ve adjusted the recipe to fit my family’s tastes, but it’s always been a hit. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a healthy meal, or a fun dish to serve at a gathering, ground turkey lettuce wraps are the perfect choice.
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 50mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I first came across the idea of lettuce wraps at a restaurant, but I didn’t find a recipe that suited my tastes. So, I started experimenting in my kitchen. Over time, I figured out the right balance of seasonings and ingredients to make the perfect filling. After a few attempts, I had a version that everyone in my family loved. It’s now one of my go-to meals whenever I want something quick, easy, and flavorful.
Why Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Ground turkey lettuce wraps are a great option because they’re healthy, easy to make, and super versatile. The ground turkey is lean and packed with protein, and the lettuce provides a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the savory filling. The best part is that you can customize the filling with different vegetables or seasonings, depending on your preferences. Whether you like a bit of spice or prefer a milder flavor, you can easily adjust it to suit your taste. Plus, they’re fun to eat and make a light yet satisfying meal.
What Are Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps Made of?
Ground turkey lettuce wraps are made with a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and nutritious meal:
- Ground turkey – The main protein, lean and mild in flavor.
- Lettuce – Crisp lettuce leaves, usually iceberg or butter lettuce, serve as the wrap.
- Vegetables – Often includes onions, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms to add flavor and texture.
- Soy sauce – Adds a savory, umami flavor to the filling.
- Spices – Seasonings like ginger, garlic powder, and sometimes chili sauce or hoisin sauce for a bit of spice.
- Optional toppings – You can add chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.
What to Have with Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
While the lettuce wraps are satisfying on their own, they pair nicely with:
- Brown rice – A simple side of brown rice works well with the wraps and adds more substance to the meal.
- Cucumber salad – A light, refreshing cucumber salad can help balance the flavors and provide a cool contrast to the savory wraps.
- Sweet chili sauce – For a bit of extra sweetness and spice, serve the wraps with a side of sweet chili sauce.
- Steamed vegetables – Add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for extra nutrition.
Are Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps Healthy?
Yes, ground turkey lettuce wraps are a healthy meal option. Ground turkey is a lean protein, and using lettuce as a wrap instead of a tortilla significantly cuts down on carbs. The vegetables and seasonings add vitamins and fiber, making the dish balanced and nutritious. If you want to make it even healthier, you can use low-sodium soy sauce and add more veggies like carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the filling.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- Skillet for cooking the ground turkey
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring spoons for spices and seasonings
- Plate for assembling the wraps
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 large lettuce leaves (iceberg or butter lettuce)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, chopped peanuts
How To Make Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground turkey and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully browned.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its fragrance.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Sauce
Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (if using). Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the turkey and vegetables with the sauce.
Let the mixture cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
Step 4: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps
While the turkey mixture finishes cooking, prepare the lettuce leaves by gently washing and patting them dry. Iceberg lettuce provides a crisp texture, while butter lettuce offers a softer, wrap-friendly option.
Spoon the warm turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf, dividing evenly among 12 wraps.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
For extra flavor and crunch, garnish the wraps with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped peanuts. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Add more vegetables – You can add additional vegetables like shredded carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicy – If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes, chili sauce, or sriracha to the filling.
- Use ground chicken – If you prefer ground chicken or lean ground beef, you can substitute them for the turkey.
FAQs
1. Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
While the filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving so the lettuce stays fresh and crisp.
2. Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, the filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
3. Can I make the wraps spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more spices or chili sauce to increase the heat level to your liking.
Conclusion
Ground turkey lettuce wraps are a flavorful, healthy, and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The lean protein, crunchy vegetables, and savory seasoning make each bite delicious and satisfying. Plus, they’re customizable, so you can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Enjoy them as a light meal, or pair them with your favorite sides for a more filling dinner.
MORE RECIPES
Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Equipment
- Skillet for cooking the ground turkey
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring spoons for spices and seasonings
- Plate for assembling the wraps
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 large lettuce leaves (iceberg or butter lettuce)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground turkey and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully browned.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its fragrance.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (if using). Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the turkey and vegetables with the sauce.Let the mixture cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
- While the turkey mixture finishes cooking, prepare the lettuce leaves by gently washing and patting them dry. Iceberg lettuce provides a crisp texture, while butter lettuce offers a softer, wrap-friendly option.Spoon the warm turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf, dividing evenly among 12 wraps.
- For extra flavor and crunch, garnish the wraps with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped peanuts. Serve immediately while warm.