Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

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Healthy ground turkey zucchini casserole fresh from the oven.
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I love simple meals that feel like a hug. This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is one of my go-to dishes on busy weeknights because it is quick and fills the house with warm smells. I also like how it uses fresh zucchini and lean turkey for a lighter comfort meal.

Dad James first tasted this at our kitchen table and asked for seconds. Mom Eva kept the recipe card, and Sister Jennifer now makes it for her book club nights.

Gathering Your Ingredients

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

The Tools That Help

I keep a few simple tools on hand: a large skillet, a 9×13 baking dish, a spatula, and a sharp knife. If you like similar one-dish meals, try my ground turkey sweet potato bake recipe for another family favorite.

The Step-by-Step Process

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
  • Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  • Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper and simmer briefly.
  • Place half the zucchini slices in the baking dish as the first layer.
  • Spoon half the turkey mixture over the zucchini and sprinkle half the mozzarella on top.
  • Repeat the zucchini, turkey, and cheese layers with the remaining ingredients.
  • Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and the cheese turns golden.
  • Let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving so it sets.

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Comfort Food Recipe

Lighter, Healthier Touches

I use lean turkey and low-moisture mozzarella to keep this dish light. You can add spinach or chopped bell pepper to the turkey mix for more veg. For less salt, use no-salt tomatoes and taste before adding the full amount of salt.

Perfect Pairings

I like a crisp green salad and crusty whole grain bread with this casserole. For a fun potluck combo, serve it with sausage and cream cheese crescent rolls for a mix of savory bites.

Common Stumbles to Avoid

Do not slice the zucchini too thin or it will turn into mush. Drain the canned tomatoes well to avoid extra liquid. Brown the turkey fully so the dish has a deeper flavor.

Storing Your Creation

I cool leftovers to room temp, then cover and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm. You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to two months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

A Final Warm Word

I hope this casserole brings simple joy to your table the way it does to mine. It is easy, honest food that feels like home.

Answering Your Questions

Can I make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes. I often assemble it a day ahead, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready and add a few extra minutes if it goes in cold.

Can I swap other meats in Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole?

Yes. You can use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey. Adjust cooking time until the meat is fully browned.

How do I prevent the zucchini from making the casserole watery in Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole?

I slice the zucchini evenly and avoid very thin slices. Drain the canned tomatoes well and do not overlayer the zucchini. Let the dish rest five minutes after baking so it firms up.

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ground turkey zucchini casserole healthy comfort 2026 01 30 220037 1 Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

  • Author: sarah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Healthy
Print Recipe

Description

A quick and hearty ground turkey and zucchini casserole that fills the house with warm smells, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  5. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper and simmer briefly.
  6. Place half the zucchini slices in the baking dish as the first layer.
  7. Spoon half the turkey mixture over the zucchini and sprinkle half the mozzarella on top.
  8. Repeat the zucchini, turkey, and cheese layers with the remaining ingredients.
  9. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and the cheese turns golden.
  10. Let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Use low-moisture mozzarella for a lighter dish.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 430mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ground turkey, zucchini, comfort food, healthy recipe

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