Looking for a satisfying, healthy dinner that doesn’t taste like diet food? This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is exactly that. This post is all about comfort food with a lighter touch. We’ll cover why this dish deserves a place in your weekly rotation, what you’ll need, and how to prep it with zero stress. We’re also answering some common questions at the end to make sure your casserole turns out just right, every time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A flavorful family favorite that’s easy on calories, big on comfort.
Hi, I’m Saly. I’m a home cook who thrives on keeping meals simple and soul-satisfying. This turkey zucchini bake is one of those dishes that hit every note; lean protein, seasonal veggies, and gooey cheese all in one dish. It’s a weeknight win and a leftover lifesaver. My husband? He went back for thirds.
What I love about this low-carb zucchini turkey casserole is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, cut carbs, or just sneak in extra veggies, this dish works hard for you. You can serve it on its own, with crusty bread, or as a side to something festive like Roast Turkey.
It’s like the ultimate kitchen hack: minimal prep, everyday ingredients, maximum payoff.
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Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Loaded with protein, low in carbs, and brimming with flavor.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
3 small zucchinis, sliced into thin half-moons
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook ground turkey until browned.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in sliced zucchini. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.
5. In a bowl, mix sour cream, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan.
6. Layer turkey and zucchini mixture in a greased baking dish.
7. Spread cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Swap turkey with ground chicken or beef as needed.
For a heartier meal, add cooked rice or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh, simple ingredients bring full flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need to build this turkey zucchini casserole from scratch:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean, preferably 93%)
- 3 small zucchinis, sliced into thin half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or any melty cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Optional: red pepper flakes or a touch of crushed tomatoes for extra flavor
If you’re a fan of cheese-forward casseroles like this, you might also enjoy our cheesy chicken and tater tot casserole.
How to Make Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole
Step-by-step to a golden, bubbly casserole.
- Prep the veggies: Wash and slice the zucchini, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Brown the turkey: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs.
- Sauté aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the pan. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add zucchini: Stir in the zucchini slices and cook just until slightly tender, don’t overcook; they’ll finish in the oven.
- Mix the creamy base: In a bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan.
- Assemble: Layer the meat and veggie mixture in a baking dish. Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake: Pop in a preheated 375°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
This savory mix is somewhat similar in feel to our spinach and mushroom chicken bake, comforting and creamy but still nourishing.
Tips & Variations
How to customize your casserole and make it your own.
- Add carbs if you want: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta to bulk it up.
- Make it spicier: A dash of cayenne or chopped jalapeño adds kick.
- Go dairy-free: Use plant-based cheese and yogurt for a lighter version.
- Change the cheese: Try smoked provolone, Colby Jack, or cheddar for a twist.
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or chopped spinach fit right in.
Looking to explore different takes on casseroles? Our yellow squash casserole with cheese is another veggie-forward classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this ground turkey zucchini casserole keto-friendly?
Yes, as written, this recipe is low-carb and suitable for keto diets. Just be sure your sour cream and cheese choices are low in carbs.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Just bake, cool, and wrap tightly. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I use ground chicken instead?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well. Just make sure it’s not too lean to avoid dryness. You might need a little extra oil while browning.
What can I serve this with?
This casserole stands on its own, but a side like Green Bean Casserole or roasted potatoes makes a full meal.
Final Thougths
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is that rare weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes: healthy, hearty, and full of flavor without feeling heavy. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again; whether you’re using up summer zucchini or making something cozy in fall. And if you’re planning holiday meals, it pairs wonderfully with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
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