It is late summer and your garden is likely overflowing with fresh zucchini. You need a meal that feels light but still fills you up. This ground turkey zucchini casserole is the perfect answer for your busy evening. It is warm, comforting, and incredibly simple to put together.
You want a dinner that makes everyone at the table happy. This dish delivers a savory, cheesy flavor that kids and adults both love. It is a great way to use up seasonal produce while keeping things healthy. You will love how the tender zucchini pairs with the rich tomato sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a massive winner for busy families who want to eat well. It packs in high-quality protein from the lean ground turkey. You get a healthy dose of vitamins from the fresh zucchini rounds. It is a low-carb meal that actually feels satisfying and hearty.
You only need one skillet and one baking dish for this meal. This means minimal cleanup after a long day at work. It is budget-friendly and uses simple staples from your pantry. This casserole is perfect for a healthy reset after a busy weekend. Your family will ask for seconds of this cheesy goodness.
Simple Cooking Method
Making this dish is very straightforward and stress-free. You start by browning the meat with onions and fragrant garlic. Then you simmer it in a simple herb-infused sauce. You will layer the ingredients just like a vegetable lasagna. This fail-proof method ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create something truly special and fresh.
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sugar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and diced onion to the skillet.
- Cook until turkey is browned and onions are translucent.
- Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes.
- Layer half of the zucchini slices in the baking dish.
- Spread half of the turkey mixture over the zucchini.
- Repeat with remaining zucchini and the rest of the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven for the best texture. It looks beautiful on the table with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for the kids. Set the table and enjoy a peaceful family dinner together.
How to Store Leftovers
This dish stores very well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Place leftovers in an airtight container once they have cooled. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch. For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F. This keeps the zucchini from getting too soft during the process. It is a fantastic option for your weekly meal prep routine.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice your zucchini into even rounds for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip browning the turkey to build deep flavor.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best savory taste.
- Let the casserole rest so the juices can settle properly.
- Try blotting the zucchini with a paper towel before layering.
- Use fresh garlic instead of powder for a better aroma.
- Grate your own cheese for a much smoother melt.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the turkey for ground beef or lean chicken.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use yellow summer squash for a colorful seasonal twist.
- Top with fresh basil leaves after baking for extra freshness.
Common Questions
Will the zucchini get watery?
Zucchini naturally releases water when it cooks in the oven. Letting the dish rest for five minutes helps the sauce thicken. You can also lightly salt and drain the zucchini beforehand.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
I hope this simple meal brings some ease to your busy weeknight. It is such a joy to serve something healthy that the whole family truly enjoys. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 3 medium zucchinis , sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup low -sugar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and diced onion to the skillet and cook until the turkey is browned and the onion is translucent, breaking the meat into small crumbles.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
- Add the marinara sauce to the turkey mixture, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer half of the zucchini slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread half of the turkey and sauce mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices followed by the remaining turkey mixture.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
