Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole

Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole 7 Secrets to Irresistible Healthy Comfort


  • Author: Simon
  • Total Time: 65
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole transforms lean protein and fresh vegetables into the creamiest, most satisfying comfort food imaginable. Layers of seasoned ground turkey, tender zucchini, and rich cheese sauce create a healthy dinner so delicious, your family will never guess it’s good for them.


Ingredients

Scale

pounds ground turkey (93/7)

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

4 medium zucchini (about 2 pounds), sliced into ¼-inch rounds

1½ teaspoons salt (for draining zucchini)

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Fresh basil for garnish


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Slice zucchini into ¼-inch rounds, place in colander, sprinkle with 1½ teaspoons salt, and let drain for 15 minutes.

3. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and break into chunks.

4. Season turkey with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until no pink remains, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

5. Pat drained zucchini slices completely dry with paper towels.

6. Heat olive oil in same skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

7. Add zucchini slices and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.

8. In large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs, and Dijon mustard, mix until combined.

9. Fold in ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan into cream cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

10. Spread half the cooked turkey in bottom of prepared baking dish. Layer half the zucchini over turkey. Pour half the cream sauce over zucchini.

11. Repeat layers with remaining turkey, zucchini, and sauce.

12. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

13. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

14. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Always salt and drain zucchini for 15 minutes to prevent watery casserole. Pat completely dry before cooking.

Use 93/7 ground turkey for best balance of lean protein and moisture.

Casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10 minutes to baking time.

Leftovers keep for 5 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.

For keto version: increase cheese, add heavy cream to sauce. Net carbs: 6g per serving.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F in center for food safety.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (1/8 of casserole)
  • Calories: 295
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: ground turkey zucchini casserole, healthy casserole, turkey casserole, low carb dinner, zucchini recipe