Ingredients for Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Healthy Comfort Food

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and turkey. Provides a healthy fat base for the casserole’s flavor. Use extra virgin for best taste.
• 1 pound lean ground turkey (93/7 or 96/4): The star protein for this healthy comfort food casserole. Keeps it lean without sacrificing heartiness. Choose 93/7 for juicy results.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation. Crucial for building deep flavor in the turkey mixture. Dice finely for even distribution.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent depth and warmth. Absolutely essential for an aromatic casserole base. Mince fresh cloves, avoid pre-minced for best flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Contributes sweetness, color, and a pleasant crunch. Adds another layer of fresh vegetable goodness. Dice uniformly for even cooking.
• 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and thinly sliced (about 4 cups): The namesake fresh vegetable, offering moisture and lightness. A cornerstone of this healthy ground turkey zucchini casserole. Slice thinly for tender results.
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (no salt added): Forms the rich, savory sauce base. Adds essential moisture and tangy sweetness to the turkey mixture. Opt for no-salt-added to control seasoning.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Thins the sauce and infuses more savory depth. Prevents dryness and keeps the casserole moist. Use unsalted or low-sodium to control flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a punch of umami and tangy complexity. Elevates the overall savory profile of the dish. A secret weapon for depth!
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: The perfect blend of herbs for a classic, comforting flavor. Essential for that warm, aromatic autumn feel. Rub between palms to release aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the dish. Absolutely critical for seasoning the turkey and vegetables properly. Taste and adjust as you cook.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, earthy warmth and subtle spice. Freshly ground makes a significant difference to the overall taste. Grind fresh for best results.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, melty, comforting topping. Adds a fantastic savory tang and creamy texture. Shred your own for superior melt.
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a wonderfully crispy, golden-brown topping. Adds texture contrast and a satisfying crunch to the casserole. Toast lightly for extra crispness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, herbaceous garnish. Adds a pop of color and fresh counterpoint to the rich casserole. Stir into the turkey mixture too.

How to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Healthy Comfort Food

Brown Turkey:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it up. Brown until no longer pink, then drain excess fat. Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.

Simmer Sauce:

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully for your Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole.

Fold Zucchini:

Gently fold the thinly sliced zucchini into the simmering sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, just until the zucchini begins to soften slightly but still holds its shape. This ensures a delightful texture in your casserole.

Bake Casserole:

Transfer the turkey and zucchini mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Rest Casserole:

Once baked, remove the Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the casserole to set, preventing it from falling apart when scooped.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish your warm and satisfying Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Healthy Comfort Food with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete, wholesome meal.

How to Store Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Healthy Comfort Food

To store your Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh. Don’t leave it out too long, a mistake I’ve made; it won’t be safe. Discard if off smells or mold appear.

You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Prepare the mixture, transfer to the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add cheese and breadcrumbs just before.

For reheating, individual portions work best. Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

What to Serve with Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole Healthy Comfort Food

Serve this hearty Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole warm, straight from the oven, for an incredibly satisfying meal. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. It’s perfect alongside a simple crisp green salad or a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to pair with the rich flavors. Enjoy this comforting dish as a complete meal.

My favorite way to serve this is with roasted asparagus. The crisp-tender spears perfectly complement the casserole’s richness, creating a wonderfully balanced and complete meal. I always enjoy this delightful pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ground beef for turkey in this Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, but use lean beef (90/10 or leaner) to avoid excess grease, a mistake I made often. Drain any fat thoroughly after browning. The flavor profile will be slightly richer.

→ How do I prevent my Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole from becoming watery or mushy?

Don’t overcook the zucchini in the skillet; cook just until slightly softened. For a firmer casserole, try salting and draining the zucchini for 15 minutes before adding it. This prevents excess wateriness.

→ Can I make this Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole gluten-free for dietary needs?

Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply omit the panko breadcrumbs or substitute them with a certified gluten-free breadcrumb alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long can I store leftover Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole in the refrigerator?

You can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always let it cool completely before storing; don’t leave it out too long, a mistake I’ve made.

→ Can I make this Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. While you can freeze the baked casserole, freezing raw zucchini can make it mushier upon thawing.