Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. Made with lean ground turkey sautéed in a savory-sweet Asian-style sauce and served in crisp lettuce cups, this dish is light yet satisfying. It’s inspired by popular restaurant versions but easy to make at home in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lettuce wraps are packed with bold flavors, low in carbs, and incredibly versatile. The juicy ground turkey absorbs the delicious ginger, garlic, and soy-based sauce beautifully, and the fresh lettuce gives every bite a refreshing crunch. You’ll love how fast they come together and how easily you can customize them with your favorite toppings. They’re great as an appetizer or a main course.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground turkey
• Olive oil or sesame oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh ginger (minced or grated)
• Onion (diced)
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Hoisin sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Water chestnuts (chopped)
• Green onions (sliced)
• Butter lettuce or romaine leaves
• Optional: shredded carrots, crushed peanuts, sriracha, lime wedges

directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
5. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add chopped water chestnuts and green onions; stir to combine.
7. Remove from heat and spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves.
8. Top with optional garnishes and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Sweet & Savory: Mix in a touch of honey or brown sugar for added sweetness.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce hoisin for a lighter option.
• Vegan Swap: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh in place of turkey.
• Add Veggies: Toss in shredded cabbage, zucchini, or mushrooms for more volume.

storage/reheating

Store the cooked turkey filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Store lettuce leaves separately to keep them crisp.
Not freezer-friendly, as the texture of the filling and lettuce may not hold up well.

FAQs

What type of lettuce works best?

Butter lettuce is ideal for its cup-like shape and softness, but romaine and iceberg also work well.

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken, pork, or beef are great substitutes in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use tamari instead of soy sauce and check the labels on hoisin sauce.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the turkey filling can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

What do I serve with lettuce wraps?

They’re great on their own or paired with rice, noodles, or a cucumber salad.

How do I keep the lettuce wraps from getting soggy?

Serve the filling separately and let guests assemble wraps just before eating.

Can I add noodles to this?

Yes, thin rice noodles or vermicelli can be added to the wraps for extra substance.

Are water chestnuts necessary?

They add great crunch, but you can skip them or substitute with chopped celery.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, store the filling and lettuce separately and assemble just before eating.

Is hoisin sauce spicy?

Hoisin is more sweet and savory than spicy, but you can adjust heat with other ingredients.

Conclusion

Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps are the perfect combination of flavor, freshness, and fast prep. They’re great for a light dinner, fun appetizer, or meal prep staple. With a savory, umami-packed turkey filling and crisp lettuce cups, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread—it’s sure to impress every time.

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