Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, balanced meal that blends wholesome veggies with hearty protein, you have to try Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole. This casserole is a weeknight warrior: juicy zucchini, tender ground turkey, and a delightfully creamy, cheesy sauce all merge together for a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is a fresh, satisfying answer to “What’s for dinner?” that you’ll want to come back to again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this casserole has a purpose! The list is full of staple ingredients, each adding flavor, texture, or color that turns this Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole into something special. Don’t be intimidated by the list — every item truly pulls its weight.

• Olive oil: A drizzle brings the turkey and vegetables to life while lending a touch of silkiness.
• Ground turkey: Lean and mild, it’s the perfect flavorful base for a lighter casserole.
• Yellow onion: Diced and sautéed, onion gives a sweet, savory depth to the mix.
• Garlic: Minced garlic perfumes the kitchen and ties all the flavors together.
• Zucchini: Fresh, sliced zucchini offers mildness and moisture — it’s the veggie star!
• Dried basil: Adds an herby Italian note that makes the dish sing.
• Dried oregano: Another classic herb that gives warmth and earthiness.
• Salt: Enhances every single ingredient and brings the whole casserole together.
• Black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and a savory edge to complement the other spices.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle hint of heat, toss some in, or skip for a milder flavor.
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa: Adds body, whole grain goodness, and satisfying texture.
• Sour cream: Melty, tangy, and creamy, it balances the meat and veggies.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Another protein boost and creamy addition, with a light tang.
• Egg: The secret binder that helps everything stay sliceable and set.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness and gives the top just the right amount of stretch.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it adds a nutty, salty finish and a touch of golden color.

How to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and that your Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole bakes up golden and perfect.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as you go. You’re looking for a bit of caramelization here — those little brown bits mean flavor!

Step 3: Soften the Onion and Garlic

Add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Give them a good stir with the turkey and let them cook for 3–4 minutes, just until fragrant and softened. They’ll help infuse your casserole with savory richness.

Step 4: Add the Zucchini and Season

Now’s the time for those vibrant zucchini half-moons. Toss them into the skillet, stir to distribute, and let cook for 5–7 minutes, until they start to soften but haven’t gone mushy. Sprinkle in the basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if you like a spark of heat.

Step 5: Mix the Creamy Filling

In a big bowl, combine your cooked rice or quinoa, sour cream, Greek yogurt, egg, and half of the shredded mozzarella. This mixture will bring creaminess, cheesy goodness, and help everything bind together in the oven.

Step 6: Combine and Transfer

Stir your cooked turkey and zucchini into the creamy filling until totally combined. Pour this hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.

Step 7: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan right over the top. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the whole kitchen smells absolutely amazing. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving — that helps everything settle for the best slices!

How to Serve Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

A little sprinkle goes a long way! Try scattering freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. If you like a touch of acidity, a quick squeeze of lemon or even a few cherry tomato halves can brighten up the whole plate.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a full meal by itself, but a crisp green salad, some steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots would be lovely on the side. Crusty bread is also a great option for soaking up the saucy goodness, especially if you’re sharing with a hungry crowd.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole for guests, try baking it in individual ramekins for personal pot-pie vibes, or scoop the casserole onto wilted spinach for an extra boost of greens. Leftover slices even make an amazing filling for wraps the next day!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It’s just as good the next day, and the flavors might even deepen and improve after a night’s rest.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! Wrap cooled portions tightly in foil or transfer to freezer containers. Freeze for up to three months, and be sure to label with the date. When you need a fast, hearty meal, just thaw and you’re halfway there.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until thoroughly warmed and the cheese is bubbling again. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a rush — just cover loosely to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this casserole, offering a slightly different flavor but still keeping things light and delicious. Just follow the same cooking steps and enjoy a new twist.

Is it possible to make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the sour cream and Greek yogurt for your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan. The casserole will still be creamy and satisfying.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

There’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skins are tender, add lovely green color, and a bit of extra fiber to every bite. Simply wash them well and slice into half-moons.

Can I assemble Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can put everything together, cover it, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your bake time if you’re starting from cold.

What can I use instead of rice or quinoa?

If you’d like a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic substitute in this recipe. It absorbs flavors well and keeps things nice and light!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole brings together wholesome comfort and vibrant, fresh flavors in every bite. It’s a personal favorite I turn to again and again, whether I’m looking for a weekend crowd-pleaser or simple weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let it become a staple at your table, too!

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