Description
This Cheesy Zucchini and Turkey Casserole is a hearty and wholesome dish combining lean ground turkey, fresh zucchini, and savory spices with a melty aged cheddar topping. Perfect for a family dinner, it features a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and whole grains, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 lbs zucchini, diced
Grains and Canned Goods
- 2 cups prepared groats or brown rice, quinoa, etc.
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
Herbs and Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil
Dairy
- 7 oz Kerrygold aged cheddar, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil followed by the ground turkey. Cook until the meat begins to brown evenly.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes until the onions start to soften and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Zucchini: Incorporate the diced zucchini into the skillet. Continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the prepared groats or grain of choice, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, fresh basil, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Optional Freezing: Cover the baking dish tightly and freeze for later use. Remember to defrost completely before baking.
Notes
- You can substitute groats with brown rice, quinoa, or any cooked whole grain of your choice.
- For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the smoked paprika.
- Ensure the casserole is fully defrosted before baking if you freeze it ahead of time.
- Use Kerrygold aged cheddar for a richer flavor, but any sharp cheddar will work well.
- This casserole pairs nicely with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
