Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Name: Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tsp chili flakes; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1 head of butter lettuce or Romaine, separated into leaves; Peanut sauce for drizzling (optional); Extra cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I absolutely love making Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps for a quick and healthy meal. The combination of lean turkey, fresh cilantro, and a hint of lime brings a burst of flavor that transports me to the streets of Thailand. I particularly enjoy these wraps with a spicy peanut sauce, which adds depth and richness. Not only are they delicious, but they're also low in carbs, making them perfect when I'm craving something light and satisfying. Give these a try for your next dinner or casual get-together!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:17:28.088Z

When I first stumbled across the idea of using lettuce as a wrap, I was hooked! I decided to fill these fresh leaves with a mixture of turkey and vibrant spices, and it was an instant hit. The freshness from the lettuce perfectly balances the savory turkey, and surprisingly, it feels like a substantial meal even without rice or bread.

One key tip I've learned is to sauté the turkey until it's just cooked through, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful. Adding a splash of fish sauce at the end gives that authentic Thai taste, making these wraps truly irresistible!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch from the lettuce leaves
Rich, aromatic flavors with a hint of spice
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The ground turkey in this recipe is not only a lighter protein choice but also absorbs the flavors of the spices and sauces beautifully. Its mild taste allows the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and chili flakes to shine. When cooking, aim for a medium heat to ensure the turkey browns nicely without drying out. It should be cooked until no longer pink, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

Soy sauce and fish sauce are essential for adding depth and umami to the turkey filling. The soy sauce brings a savory saltiness, while the fish sauce adds a hint of oceanic flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. If you prefer a gluten-free option, tamari can be used instead of soy sauce without compromising the dish’s integrity. Just be mindful of adjusting the amount, as tamari can be slightly saltier.

Tips for Perfect Lettuce Wraps

Choosing the right lettuce is crucial for making the perfect wraps. Butter lettuce offers a delicate, pliable leaf that holds the filling well, whereas Romaine offers more structure while being equally delightful. Make sure to select fresh leaves with no browning or wilting, as they’ll provide the best crunch and flavor. Rinse and dry them thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture that could make the wraps soggy.

As you assemble the wraps, don’t overload the lettuce leaves to prevent tearing. Start with a couple of tablespoons of filling and adjust as needed. A drizzle of peanut sauce adds a creamy, rich element, but be cautious not to soak the wraps, which can lead to messy eating. I also love to add sliced cucumbers or shredded carrots for an extra crunch.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Filling

1 lb ground turkey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp chili flakes
1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced

For Serving

1 head of butter lettuce or Romaine, separated into leaves
Peanut sauce for drizzling (optional)
Extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Turkey Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, chili flakes, and red bell pepper. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in cilantro and lime juice.

Assemble the Wraps

Take a lettuce leaf and spoon in some of the turkey filling. Drizzle with peanut sauce if using, and garnish with additional cilantro. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, you can include shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers in your wraps. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Thai-Spiced Turkey Lettuce Wraps can be a time-saver when made in advance. Prepare the turkey filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your wraps even more delicious. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the turkey filling in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes, and assemble the wraps fresh.

If you want to extend the shelf life, you can freeze the turkey filling in portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid freezing the lettuce leaves, as they can become limp and unappetizing once thawed.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the toppings according to your taste. Adding diced avocado or chopped peanuts can enhance the texture of the wraps. For those who enjoy heat, a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the spice level. You can also swap out ingredients; for example, using ground chicken or tofu for a different protein profile, while maintaining the core flavors.

These wraps make a fantastic appetizer or a light main dish. Pair them with a side of jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad to round out the meal. For entertaining, prepare a 'wrap station' where guests can assemble their own lettuce wraps, allowing them to customize their toppings and sauces to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works great in this recipe and will yield a similar delicious outcome.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep the turkey filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Assemble the wraps fresh each time for best results.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the turkey filling ahead of time. Just assemble the wraps right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add shredded carrots, sliced jalapeños, or even chopped peanuts for extra flavor and texture!