Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy comfort food option that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Combining lean ground turkey with fresh zucchini and melted mozzarella, it’s perfect for a wholesome family dinner.

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

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the turkey.
• Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat without sacrificing meltiness.
• Substitute ground chicken or lean beef for ground turkey if preferred.
• Try adding fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a fresh garnish.

Storage

Store 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 (175°C) oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely. Use about 1 1/2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes, and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 72 reviews

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy and comforting dish, combining lean ground turkey with fresh zucchini, savory Italian herbs, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, this casserole layers sautéed turkey and tomatoes with fresh zucchini slices and cheese, baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• 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

Dairy

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Canned Goods and Seasonings

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Oils and Fats

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

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

Notes

• Make sure to drain the canned diced tomatoes to avoid excess liquid making the casserole watery.
• Using fresh mozzarella or part-skim can reduce fat if desired.
• You can substitute ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
• Season to taste by adjusting salt and pepper levels.
• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh basil before baking.

Keywords: ground turkey casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy comfort food, baked turkey dish, low fat dinner