Savory Turkey Zucchini Casserole

This savory ground turkey zucchini casserole combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains for a complete and satisfying meal. The melted aged cheddar creates a golden crust that perfectly complements the juicy turkey and tender zucchini underneath.

I developed this recipe when trying to use up an abundance of zucchini from my garden last summer. What started as a simple clean-out-the-fridge dinner has become one of our most requested weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: Provides lean protein without the heaviness of beef. Look for packages with a pinkish color indicating freshness
• Zucchini: Adds moisture and nutrition. Choose firm small to medium zucchini for the best flavor and texture
• Groats: Create a hearty base and absorb all the wonderful flavors. Any cooked grain works beautifully here
• Canned diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and umami. Fire-roasted varieties add extra depth
• Kerrygold aged cheddar: Creates the perfect golden crust. The grass-fed milk gives it a richer flavor than standard cheddars
• Fresh basil: Brightens the entire dish. Summer basil straight from the garden makes an incredible difference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the casserole to heat through completely without burning the cheese topping. Take this time to prepare your baking dish and gather all ingredients.

Cook the Ground Turkey:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add the ground turkey and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Proper browning creates flavor compounds that enhance the entire dish.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add onions and garlic to the turkey and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes. The onions should soften but not brown. Next, incorporate the zucchini and cook just until it begins to release moisture. Avoid overcooking as the zucchini will continue to soften in the oven.

Combine Ingredients:

Add your cooked groats, tomatoes with their juice, seasonings, fresh basil, and half the cheese. Stir thoroughly to distribute everything evenly. The hot mixture will begin melting the cheese slightly, creating pockets of creaminess throughout.

Prepare for Baking:

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Top with the remaining cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect golden crust.

Bake and Serve:

Bake uncovered until the cheese is melted and bubbling with spots of golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly.

Save

The smoked paprika is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power years ago when I accidentally grabbed it instead of regular paprika. The subtle smokiness adds incredible depth that makes people wonder what your secret ingredient might be.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole shines as a meal prep option. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since you're starting with a cold dish.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Swap ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with 2 cups of cooked lentils or a package of crumbled firm tofu sautéed with the same seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands beautifully on its own as a complete meal, but I often pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For hungrier crowds, warm crusty bread makes an excellent addition for sopping up any casserole juices.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the groats with something else?

Yes, absolutely! Brown rice, quinoa, farro, or bulgur wheat work wonderfully as alternatives to groats in this casserole. Just make sure whatever grain you choose is pre-cooked before adding it to the mixture.

→ How do I store leftovers of this casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or place the entire casserole (in an oven-safe dish) in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with this turkey zucchini casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve with roasted vegetables or a cucumber and tomato salad.

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is an excellent substitute for ground turkey in this casserole. The cooking method remains the same, and you'll achieve a similarly delicious result with very little difference in flavor or texture.

→ How can I make this casserole more kid-friendly?

To make this more appealing to children, you can finely dice the zucchini so it's less noticeable, use mild cheddar instead of aged, and consider adding a bit more cheese on top. Some parents also find mixing in a small amount of cream cheese helps create a creamier texture kids enjoy.