Description
A hearty and nutritious Cheesy Zucchini and Turkey Casserole combining ground turkey, fresh zucchini, flavorful herbs, and melted aged cheddar cheese, perfect for a wholesome family meal or make-ahead freezer option.
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
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil
Cheese
- 7 oz Kerrygold aged cheddar, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey starts to brown evenly, developing flavor and color.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 2 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic releases its fragrance.
- Cook Zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the zucchini to become tender but still retain some texture.
- Add Grains and Seasonings: Mix in the prepared groats (or your choice of grain), canned diced tomatoes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, fresh basil, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring everything thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been coated with cooking spray for easy release.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
- Freeze or Bake: You can cover the casserole tightly and freeze it for later use (defrost before baking), or bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- This casserole freezes well; just be sure to defrost fully before baking for best results.
- You can substitute groats with brown rice, quinoa, or another preferred whole grain.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more paprika or herbs if desired.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce cheese slightly or use a low-fat cheddar alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
