A Healthy, Comforting Weeknight Dinner
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is the kind of dish that hits the perfect balance between comfort and clean eating. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the whole family yet light and nutrient-packed, featuring lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and wholesome grains.
The flavors are simple, rustic, and homely, with a gentle smokiness from paprika and a fresh herbal lift from basil.
Growing up in Florida with my abuela’s influence, I learned that healthy food can still be comforting. This casserole reminds me of the cozy family meals that fill both your belly and your heart – all made with simple, fresh ingredients and a touch of love.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 10–15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Total Time | 35–45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Cuisine | American |
| Course | Dinner, Casserole |
| Difficulty | Medium |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- One-pan simplicity: Everything comes together easily in one skillet before baking.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the cheesy topping and rich flavor.
- Meal-prep friendly: Perfect for cooking once and eating twice.
- Naturally gluten-free: Made with whole ingredients, no heavy sauces needed.
Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a cozy, protein-packed dinner loaded with lean turkey, melted cheddar, and tender zucchini. It’s the perfect easy casserole for meal prep or family dinners, bringing together comfort and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 lb zucchini, diced (about 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked groats
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 7 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes until it softens slightly.
5. Add diced tomatoes, cooked groats, oregano, paprika, basil, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir to combine.
6. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and spread the mixture evenly.
7. Top with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra veggies, add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder, creamier texture.
To make it gluten-free, confirm your groats or grain substitutes are certified GF.
Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
Perfect for meal prep — stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole, Healthy
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean for best texture)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 7 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (sharp cheddar adds bold flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked groats (or quinoa, rice, or bulgur)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ lb zucchini, diced (about ½-inch pieces)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ tsp oregano
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip or Swap |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | Use lean 93% for the best flavor balance. Chicken or tofu crumbles also work. |
| Zucchini | Cut into even cubes so it cooks evenly and stays firm. |
| Groats | Swap with quinoa or brown rice for extra protein or fiber. |
| Basil | Fresh basil adds brightness, but dried works in a pinch. |
| Cheese | Use sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, melty top. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. - Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until lightly browned. - Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion and garlic to the turkey. Cook for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add zucchini and continue cooking for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. - Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, groats, paprika, oregano, basil, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined and evenly coated in tomato juices. - Prepare for Baking
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. - Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
- Drain excess liquid from diced tomatoes to avoid a watery bake.
- Use freshly shredded cheese – pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes for heat if desired.
- For extra creaminess, stir in ¼ cup of Greek yogurt before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Low-carb version: Skip the groats and double the zucchini.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace turkey with lentils or plant-based meat.
- Italian-style: Add crushed tomatoes, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
- Breakfast bake: Add scrambled eggs and bake into a high-protein brunch dish.
What to Serve With It
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots for extra vegetables.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until hot.
Kitchen Wisdom
- Always let casseroles rest before slicing – this helps the flavors settle.
- Choose fresh zucchini with smooth, firm skin for the best texture.
- Shred your own cheese for that gooey, melty perfection.
- Add herbs last for maximum aroma and flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 1200–1400 (whole dish) |
| Protein | 90–100 g |
| Fat | 70–80 g |
| Carbohydrates | 100–110 g |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
From My Kitchen to Yours
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is everything I love about healthy cooking – it’s colorful, filling, and made with real ingredients you can feel good about. The tender turkey, creamy cheese, and juicy zucchini create a comforting bite that feels indulgent but still balanced. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners when you want something warm without the fuss.
If you’re craving another easy and hearty casserole idea, don’t miss my Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole. It’s the ultimate creamy side dish to pair with this wholesome turkey bake.
