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 and fresh vegetables, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 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 to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure even cooking, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Step 5: Place half of the sliced zucchini in the prepared baking dish as the first layer. Top with half of the turkey mixture followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, turkey mixture, and cheese.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
8. Step 8: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture before baking.
• Swap mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different taste.
• Try adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the turkey mixture for more vegetables.
• Use low-fat cheese to keep the dish lighter and reduce calories.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 125 reviews

A wholesome and comforting Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole that combines lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and melted mozzarella cheese with savory Italian herbs. This healthy casserole is easy to prepare, perfect for a nutritious family dinner, and baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Viktoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes, to build the base flavor.
3. Cook Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure even cooking, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Layer the Casserole: Place half of the sliced zucchini in the prepared baking dish as the first layer. Top with half of the turkey mixture followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, turkey mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
7. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm for a comforting and nutritious meal.

Notes

• Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture making the casserole watery.
• To cut calories, you can substitute part of the mozzarella cheese with a lower-fat cheese, or reduce the amount slightly.
• Use fresh Italian herbs or a blend such as basil, oregano, and thyme if dried herbs are not available.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; adjust baking time if baking directly from chilled.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole, Healthy Casserole, Low Fat Dinner, Baked Ground Turkey, Italian Herb Recipe, Comfort Food