When I first made this Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole, I didn’t realize how much it would remind me of my nonna’s baked dishes. She often layered whatever she had; vegetables, meat, cheese, into something warm and comforting. This casserole does the same, blending the heartiness of lean turkey with the tenderness of fresh zucchini. It’s light enough for a weeknight meal but satisfying like Sunday dinner. Every bite tastes like home. If you enjoy cozy, balanced meals, you might also love this Turkey Pumpkin Chili, another wholesome dish that makes simple ingredients shine.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Bake is everything you want in a healthy comfort meal; simple, wholesome, and family-friendly. It’s packed with protein from the turkey, vitamins from the zucchini, and flavor from a touch of garlic and cheese. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just want a lighter dinner, this dish hits the sweet spot. Unlike heavier casseroles, it keeps things fresh and balanced while still tasting indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead or bake fresh. For another simple family dinner, check out this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole.
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Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
A wholesome, high-protein casserole made with lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for family dinners or healthy meal prep.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground turkey
2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt, pepper, oregano to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a medium baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Layer half of the zucchini in the baking dish, then half of the turkey mixture. Add some mozzarella. Repeat layers.
5. Top with parmesan, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes.
6. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty, healthy casserole!
Notes
You can salt and drain zucchini slices before layering to avoid excess moisture.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar or feta for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Ingredients
Gather these easy ingredients before starting:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey (lean) | 1 pound |
| Medium zucchini, sliced thin | 2 |
| Onion, diced | 1 small |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Diced tomatoes (no salt added) | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup |
| Grated parmesan | ¼ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt, pepper, oregano | To taste |
This recipe uses humble ingredients that transform into something extraordinary when baked together. The zucchini keeps it moist while the turkey adds richness. For another veggie-packed classic, try this Green Bean Casserole, it’s a timeless side that complements this main perfectly.
How to Make It
- Preheat and Prep: Heat your oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a baking dish.
- Cook the Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until fragrant. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Add Flavor: Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano. Let simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors come together.
- Layer: Arrange half the zucchini slices at the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon half the turkey mixture on top. Add a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Top and Bake: Finish with parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, it’s even better the next day.
This method keeps the casserole hearty yet light. For a holiday twist, pair it with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, they’re perfect for using up leftovers.
Tips and Variations
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a few spoonfuls of ricotta between layers.
- Add spice: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Meal prep: Divide into containers for a week of healthy lunches.
- Cheese lovers: Mix in cheddar or feta for a flavor boost.
This dish fits beautifully into meal plans that focus on lean protein and low carbs. If you’re prepping for holidays or big family dinners, you’ll love the heartwarming balance of this Thanksgiving Roast Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole?
Yes! Cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F until hot.
How do I prevent watery zucchini?
Slice, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes before layering. This draws out excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese and top with breadcrumbs instead.
What sides go best with it?
Try serving it with Crockpot Lasagna Soup or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole proves that healthy eating can be deeply satisfying. It’s full of flavor, nourishment, and that comforting homemade touch my nonna would’ve loved. Whether you’re feeding family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a wholesome dinner that always feels special. If you enjoy making simple yet hearty meals like this, you’ll also appreciate Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a fun, cheesy twist on weeknight dinners. Cooking should always feel like care, and this dish delivers exactly that.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
