If you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome dinner that brings together comforting flavors and vibrant, fresh veggies, Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is about to become your new go-to recipe. This delightful dish combines lean ground turkey, tender zucchini, creamy mushroom sauce, and melty cheddar cheese in every satisfying forkful. Whether you need a stress-free weeknight meal or want something with plenty of make-ahead and leftover potential, this casserole checks all the boxes for convenience, nutrition, and irresistible flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this casserole is that each ingredient serves a vital purpose—tender turkey for protein, zucchini for freshness, and just the right amount of cheesy richness. Even better, the straightforward ingredient list means most items will already be on hand. Here’s what you’ll need and why each addition is essential:
- Ground turkey: Lean and full of flavor, it makes the casserole hearty without feeling heavy.
- Zucchini (2 medium, diced): Adds tenderness and subtle sweetness, while keeping the dish moist.
- Onion (1 small, chopped): Provides a savory base that enhances every bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the casserole with aromatic depth.
- Cooked rice or quinoa (1 cup): Offers a satisfying texture and helps bind the casserole together. Choose your favorite or use what’s on hand!
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Brings creamy richness and classic comfort-food flavor.
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (½ cup): Keeps everything luscious and adds tangy balance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, golden-topped goodness.
- Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Lends an earthy note that complements the turkey and veggies.
- Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a hint of herbs.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings out all the best in the savory ingredients.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a touch of gentle warmth to the casserole.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing and deepening the flavors of the onion and garlic.
- Breadcrumbs (¼ cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a satisfying crunch factor.
How to Make Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Baking Dish Ready
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F—it’s the perfect temp to ensure your Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole turns out hot and bubbly. Give your 9×9-inch (or slightly larger) baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or a rub of olive oil, so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the veggies are softened and aromatic. This step sets a deliciously flavorful foundation for the rest of the casserole.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon or spatula and cook until fully browned. The turkey should lose any pink color and begin to get some caramelized edges—this is where lots of that savory flavor develops.
Step 4: Add Zucchini and Soften
Time to invite the fresh zucchini into the skillet! Stir the diced pieces in with the cooked turkey. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the zucchini starts to become tender but not mushy; you want bright green chunks with a gentle bite left.
Step 5: Mix in Your Casserole Base
Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, stir in your cooked rice or quinoa, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or Greek yogurt, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well so everything is evenly coated and happily mingling.
Step 6: Assemble and Top
Pour the veggie-packed mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth out the top. Sprinkle over the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese, and if you’re feeling crunchy, add a generous layer of breadcrumbs to finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. When you see golden cheese and bubbling edges, you know it’s ready. Let it rest for about 5 minutes—those flavors need time to settle and become even more irresistible.
How to Serve Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
Garnishes
I love to add a finishing sprinkle of fresh herbs—think parsley, basil, or chives—right before serving. A touch of extra black pepper or a scattering of paprika across the cheesy topping also perks up the presentation and flavor. This little extra makes your Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole look and taste special every single time.
Side Dishes
Since the casserole is so hearty, keep sides light and cheerful. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots always work beautifully. Crusty bread is another favorite for soaking up any creamy goodness left on your plate!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the hot casserole straight into individual ramekins for a dinner party or potluck—everyone loves having their own little serving. Or, for a family-style meal, serve directly from the baking dish with a large spoon and let everyone dig in; it’s casual, homey, and downright comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole tasting just as delicious the next day, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of baking. It’ll stay fresh for up to four days and makes a fantastic lunch or speedy dinner anytime you need it.
Freezing
If you want to save casserole for another day, freezing is a great option! Just let the dish cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap. For smaller portions, divide into meal-sized containers. Freeze for up to 2 months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste, reheat your casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20 minutes for a whole dish or 5–10 minutes for single portions). You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal, just be sure to use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to keep moisture in.
FAQs
Can I substitute another protein for ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works seamlessly as a swap, or even lean ground beef if that’s what you have handy. The key is to use a protein that browns well and is mild enough to let the zucchini and seasonings shine in this Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms all complement the casserole nicely and add extra color and nutrition. Just sauté any firmer veggies with the turkey and onion before baking.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs (or skip them entirely) and make sure your cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free. With those small changes, your Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is ready for anyone avoiding gluten!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely—this is one of those recipes that actually tastes better after sitting for a bit! Assemble everything up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
How do I keep the casserole from turning watery?
The key is not to overcook the zucchini before baking; you want it just barely tender. Also, make sure to drain any excess liquid if your ground turkey releases a lot while browning. This helps keep your Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole rich and creamy, not soupy.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be surprised if the Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole quickly becomes a staple at your family table. It’s easy, full of honest flavors, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your busy weeknights) will thank you!
Print
Savory Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This savory ground turkey zucchini casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with flavorful ingredients like ground turkey, zucchini, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Mixture:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
Sauce:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Cook turkey and zucchini: Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in zucchini and cook until tender.
- Combine ingredients: Remove from heat and mix in rice, soup, sour cream, 3/4 cup cheese, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the canned soup with a homemade mushroom sauce or cream of chicken.
- Include additional veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- This casserole reheats well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
