Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Name: Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 head butter or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated; Chili sauce, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love these Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps! They are my go-to for a light yet satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. The combination of ground turkey and Thai spices creates a savory filling, while the crisp lettuce leaves provide a refreshing crunch. I often prepare these wraps for quick weeknight dinners or when entertaining friends. Plus, they're great for meal prep, which makes them a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a favorite in your household too!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:25:27.317Z

When I first made these Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The allure of this dish is all in the seasoning. A blend of fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh herbs gives the turkey filling an authentic Thai flavor that’s both zesty and aromatic.

One of my favorite tips is to prepare the turkey filling in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, any last-minute dinner guests can be served a gourmet meal in mere minutes. The fresh, crisp lettuce adds such a satisfying crunch that complements the spiced turkey beautifully!

Why You Will Love These Wraps
Bold and aromatic Thai flavors that excite your palate
Healthy and low-carb option perfect for light lunches
Quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The key to making these Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps truly outstanding lies in the use of fresh ingredients. Fresh cilantro and green onions bring brightness to the rich and savory turkey mixture, enhancing both the flavor and the overall aroma of the dish. When chopping herbs, aim for a rough chop to retain their texture and ensure they integrate well into the filling; this also helps release their essential oils, which is where much of the flavor comes from.

You can customize these wraps even further by experimenting with other herbs or vegetables. Consider adding shredded carrots for extra crunch or mint for a refreshing twist. The balance of flavors is crucial; if you feel the mix needs more acidity, a bit more lime juice can elevate the dish. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as needed while cooking!

Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Turkey

When cooking the ground turkey, use a sturdy spatula to break the meat apart as it browns in the skillet. This step is essential not only for even cooking but also for ensuring that every bite absorbs the delicious Thai-inspired seasonings. Watch closely; turkey can go from tender to tough fairly quickly if overcooked, so aim for a pale golden color on the edges and a fully opaque center, which should take about 5-7 minutes on medium heat.

If you're cooking for a large group, scaling the recipe is straightforward. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet, or if you have one, a wok will work wonderfully too. Just remember to keep enough space in the pan to allow the turkey to brown instead of steaming. Cooking in batches helps maintain that desirable texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps:

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 head butter or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
Chili sauce, for serving (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s how to whip up these tasty wraps:

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks until browned.

Add Spices and Sauce

Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Mix well to combine the flavors, then cook for 2-3 minutes until the turkey is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Mix in Fresh Herbs

Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped green onions and cilantro, stirring to combine. This adds freshness to the turkey filling.

Assemble the Wraps

To serve, spoon some of the turkey mixture into a lettuce leaf, then top with additional cilantro and a drizzle of chili sauce if desired. Enjoy your wraps fresh!

Serve immediately and savor the delicious flavors!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, try adding shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers in your wrap. Also, feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding chili flakes to the turkey mixture according to your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps are fantastic for meal prep! You can cook the turkey filling a day in advance; cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, and assemble the wraps fresh to enjoy that crispy lettuce texture.

If you're looking to store leftovers, keep the turkey filling and lettuce leaves separate. This prevents the leaves from wilting and losing their crunch. You can also freeze the turkey mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a quick meal option ready for another busy night!

Serving Suggestions

For a twist on the traditional wrap, consider adding a side of coconut rice or jasmine rice for a complete meal experience. The creaminess of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the savory turkey filling, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors. To elevate your presentation, garnish with extra herbs and lime wedges to add a pop of color and a zesty touch.

Additionally, you can serve these wraps with a dipping sauce on the side. A peanut sauce or a simple mixed chili sauce can enhance the flavor even more. Mixing a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter with a splash of soy sauce and a squeeze of lime can create a quick and flavorful dipping option that complements the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and offers a similar taste and texture.

→ Are there any alternative sauces I can use?

You can substitute the fish sauce with a soy sauce alternative for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the turkey filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the turkey filling?

Absolutely! Freeze the filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.