Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole for Easy Meal Prep (Print Version)
Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole is a healthy, easy meal prep dinner. This savory dish combines lean turkey, fresh zucchini, and cheese for a satisfying weeknight meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs lean ground turkey (93% lean)
02 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Garden Freshness
04 -
3 medium zucchini (about 2 lbs total), trimmed and thinly sliced
05 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
→ Savory Simmer & Seasoning
06 -
1 tbsp olive oil
07 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
08 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
09 -
1 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
10 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
11 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Golden Topping
13 -
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
14 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
02 -
Add 1 1/2 lbs lean ground turkey (93% lean) to the skillet with the onion. Break the turkey apart with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for your Cozy Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole for Meal Prep. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 -
Arrange half of the 3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced, in an even layer over the turkey mixture in the skillet. Spoon half of the rich turkey sauce over the zucchini. Sprinkle evenly with 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining zucchini, turkey sauce, and 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese.
05 -
Sprinkle the top layer of the casserole with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. This ensures a perfectly cooked Cozy Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole for Meal Prep.
06 -
Remove the Cozy Ground Turkey Zucchini Casserole for Meal Prep from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to portion neatly and ideal for your meal prepping needs.
# Notes:
01 -
This casserole is excellent for meal prep! Divide cooled portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
02 -
Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or a cheddar blend. For extra veggies, add a layer of fresh spinach or thinly sliced bell peppers under the zucchini.
03 -
Serve this hearty casserole on its own, or alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a complete and balanced meal.
04 -
To reduce excess moisture from the zucchini, you can lightly salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before layering.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 347 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Total Carbohydrate: 13 g
Protein: 32 g