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Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Glazed turkey lettuce wraps, creamy filling, crisp edges, vibrant close-up.

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These turkey lettuce wraps are a fresh quick dinner that comes together in under twenty minutes. Lean ground turkey is cooked with garlic, ginger, and a savory soy sauce mixture, then served in crisp lettuce cups for a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or low carb summer dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean works best)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or avocado oil for a neutral flavor)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
  • 1 head butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated and washed
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional, for color and sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lettuce cups: Carefully separate leaves from the head of lettuce. Rinse gently under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Look for large, cup-shaped leaves that can hold the filling without tearing. Arrange on a serving platter and set aside.
  2. Cook the aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess liquid.
  4. Add the sauce and crunch: Stir in diced water chestnuts, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if using. Let simmer for 2 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken slightly and coat the turkey. Fold in shredded carrots and half the green onions, reserving the rest for garnish.
  5. Assemble and serve: Spoon warm filling into prepared lettuce cups. Top with remaining green onions and any extra garnishes like chopped peanuts, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately while filling is hot and lettuce is cold and crisp.

Notes

Store filling and lettuce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Filling keeps for up to 4 days; lettuce stays crisp for about 2 days. Reheat filling in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos. For paleo, use coconut aminos. For extra crunch, add diced celery or jicama instead of water chestnuts. Serve with rice or cauliflower rice for a more substantial meal.

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