If you are looking for a comforting dish that balances wholesome ingredients with delightful flavors, this Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. It combines lean ground turkey with fresh zucchini, savory herbs, and melty cheeses in a satisfying baked dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The tender texture, mild sweetness from the zucchini, and an inviting cheesy top make this casserole an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s also healthy and gluten-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together in harmony to create a casserole that’s full of flavor, texture, and nourishing goodness. Each element from the ground turkey to the herbs plays a key role in shaping the dish’s savory profile and satisfying mouthfeel.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and protein-rich, it keeps the casserole hearty without heaviness.
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced or shredded and drained: Adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and a vibrant green color.
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped: Provides a softened aromatic base with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of robust flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa: Adds wholesome fiber and texture, grounding the casserole.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, delicious topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, savory complexity and a golden finish.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Help bind the ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a warm Mediterranean herb note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a delicate earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle, gentle kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics for richer taste and texture.
How to Make Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Aromatics
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This step sets the stage, ensuring your casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Adding the garlic last, cook it for just 30 seconds more to release its fragrant flavor without burning.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey with Herbs and Spices
Throw the ground turkey into the skillet with the softened onion and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small crumbles with your spoon. Then season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. These simple herbs bring out a deep, comforting profile that pairs beautifully with the mild turkey. Remove the skillet from heat once well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine your diced or well-drained shredded zucchini with cooked brown rice (or quinoa), Greek yogurt, and the lightly beaten eggs. This mixture is the creamy, moist foundation that will bind the casserole. Next, stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for that first layer of cheesy richness. Finally, fold in the cooked turkey mixture thoroughly to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the creamy, turkey-infused mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, creating that golden, irresistible crust that we all love. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is set in the center and wonderfully golden on top. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes so it firms up slightly before serving.
How to Serve Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To bring out the casserole’s best flavors, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt on each serving adds a delightful freshness and creaminess that complements the warm, cheesy base beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a star on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple salads like a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or warm whole-grain rolls are perfect companions if you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, try serving individual portions in mini baking dishes or ramekins. You can also layer the ingredients into a loaf pan and slice it like a meatloaf for a neat presentation. Adding red pepper flakes or topping with crushed crackers before baking gives a lovely textural contrast that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld together even more after a day, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Simply cool completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its wonderful texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, around 15 to 20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, checking to avoid drying out the casserole.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well and may offer a slightly milder flavor, which can be complemented nicely by the herbs and cheeses in the casserole.
Is it necessary to drain shredded zucchini?
Yes, it’s important to drain shredded zucchini to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which could make it soggy. After shredding, squeeze out the liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels for the best texture.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with dairy-free alternatives, and use a plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess but still result in a tasty dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?
Definitely! Replace the rice or quinoa with cauliflower rice to reduce the carbohydrates while keeping the casserole hearty and full of flavor. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
How long does it take to reheat leftovers?
Reheating typically takes 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 2 to 3 minutes in the microwave on medium power. Just make sure to check that it’s heated through evenly for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite dishes to prepare when I want something comforting yet nutritious. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this casserole as much as I do — it’s a delicious way to bring wholesome ingredients to your table with a warm, cheesy embrace.
Print
Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a delicious, healthy, and comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner. Packed with lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and wholesome grains like brown rice or quinoa, it’s enhanced with a blend of cheeses and herbs for rich flavor. Gluten-free and easy to prepare, this casserole bakes to a golden perfection with a satisfying cheesy top and a tender, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced or shredded and drained
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Dairy
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Other
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Sauté aromatics and turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground turkey, cooking thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season turkey mixture: Stir in salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and thyme into the cooked turkey mixture to infuse it with flavor. Remove from heat once fully seasoned.
- Combine casserole base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced or well-drained shredded zucchini, cooked brown rice or quinoa, plain Greek yogurt, lightly beaten eggs, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Mix turkey into base: Add the cooked turkey mixture to the zucchini and rice blend, folding it in gently until fully combined.
- Assemble and top: Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set and cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up and cool slightly.
Notes
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture before baking.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed crackers on top before placing the casserole in the oven.
- Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice or quinoa to make this casserole low-carb.
- Leftovers reheat very well, making this casserole ideal for meal prepping.
