Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe
This Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and healthy one-dish meal combining lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, cooked groats, and flavorful spices. Baked until bubbly and topped with aged cheddar cheese, this casserole offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors perfect for a quick family dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 pounds zucchini, diced
- 2 cups cooked groats (or brown rice, quinoa, etc.)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 7 ounces Kerrygold aged cheddar, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.
- Sauté the aromatics and turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground turkey and cook thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add zucchini and spices: Stir in the diced zucchini, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften but is not mushy.
- Combine with groats and tomatoes: Mix in the cooked groats and canned diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir well to combine and warm through, about 3 minutes.
- Add fresh basil: Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the chopped fresh basil to preserve its flavor.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Kerrygold aged cheddar over the top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set for easy slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute groats with cooked brown rice, quinoa, or bulgur wheat depending on availability or preference.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
- Make sure not to overcook zucchini in the skillet to maintain some texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor; dried basil can be substituted but reduce quantity to 1 teaspoon.
