Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy and comforting dish perfect for a wholesome family meal. Combining lean ground turkey with fresh zucchinis, flavorful tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole is both nutritious and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal baked dish for a cozy dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Cheese & Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the sliced zucchini evenly as the first layer. Top with half of the turkey mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over it. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, turkey mixture, and cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes for easier serving and enhanced flavors. Then, slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly for uniform baking.
- Draining the diced tomatoes helps prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.
Keywords: ground turkey casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy comfort food, baked casserole, low fat dinner, easy family meal
