Why Make This Recipe

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a delicious and healthy dish that everyone can enjoy. It combines lean ground turkey and fresh zucchini, making it a great option for a nutritious meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s easy to prepare and can feed a whole family. Additionally, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some vegetables, keeping everyone happy and healthy.

How to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Layer half of the sliced zucchini in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the turkey mixture and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Serve the casserole warm, directly from the oven. It goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. This dish is filling enough to be a meal on its own or can be served alongside your favorite side dishes.

How to Store Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Tips to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly for uniform cooking.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef, based on your preference.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the ground turkey with cooked lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables. For a low-carb version, use eggplant slices instead of zucchini.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake it from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese of your choice, like cheddar or pepper jack, to customize the flavor of the casserole.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Always double-check any canned goods for gluten-free labels to be safe.