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