Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy twist on classic comfort food. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
5. Step 5: Layer half of the sliced zucchini in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the turkey mixture and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried Italian herbs for a brighter flavor.
• Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
• Try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• For a lower-carb option, substitute the zucchini with thinly sliced eggplant.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting to help it hold together better.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well — thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Crusty bread or garlic bread also make a nice accompaniment.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 124 reviews

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy and comforting dish combining lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and melted mozzarella cheese. Flavored with garlic, onion, diced tomatoes, and Italian herbs, it offers a delicious low-carb, protein-packed meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

Seasonings & Others

• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Cook Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, approximately 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced zucchini evenly. Spread half of the turkey mixture on top, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, turkey mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top turns golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set and to prevent burns.

Notes

• You can substitute ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey if preferred.
• Drain the diced tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
• For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes while cooking the ground turkey.
• This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: ground turkey casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy comfort food, low carb casserole, baked turkey dish, easy weeknight dinner