Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This ground turkey zucchini casserole is a cozy and healthy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Combining lean turkey, fresh zucchini, and melted mozzarella, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.

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

• Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey if you prefer.
• Swap mozzarella for a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor.
• If zucchinis are very watery, pat them dry with paper towels to avoid a soggy casserole.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 565 reviews

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy and hearty baked dish featuring lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini slices, and a blend of Italian herbs, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a perfect low-carb, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and ideal for a comforting family dinner.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• 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
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly 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, cooking them until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Cook Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking, approximately 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Layer the Casserole: Arrange half of the sliced zucchini evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the turkey mixture over the zucchini, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining zucchini, turkey mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top turns golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers and enhance flavors.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
• For added flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
• Make sure to drain the canned tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: ground turkey casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy dinner, baked ground turkey, low carb casserole, Italian herbs casserole, easy weeknight meal