Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
