Hearty Ground Turkey Casserole: A Comforting Family Dinner

Ground turkey casserole is the superhero of weeknight dinners, swooping in to save your family from hunger with a hearty blend of flavors. Imagine digging into a warm, bubbling dish filled with savory ground turkey, tender veggies, and gooey cheese that melts in your mouth, creating a symphony of comfort. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you up in a cozy blanket of nostalgia while also giving you that warm fuzzy feeling inside.

Now, let’s talk about how this delightful casserole became my go-to recipe for every occasion. One rainy Tuesday evening, my family was feeling a bit blue. I whipped up this ground turkey casserole and watched as it transformed our gloomy mood into sheer happiness. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was enough to lure even my picky eater out from under their fortress of snacks. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.

Sharing this dish with friends always brings smiles and compliments galore; it’s a family favorite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option; it will absorb all those wonderful flavors.

• Onion: Use yellow onion for sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a robust taste; chop finely to release aromatic oils.

• Bell Peppers: Any color works; they add color and crunch to the dish.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with herbs for an extra flavor boost.

• Frozen Vegetables: A mix of peas and carrots adds nutrition without extra chopping effort.

• Cheddar Cheese: For topping; use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor.

• Pasta or Rice: You can use cooked pasta or rice as a base—both options are delicious!

• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté veggies quickly while keeping them tender.

• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): These add depth; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop onions and bell peppers finely so they blend seamlessly into the casserole.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick.

Add Ground Turkey : Increase heat slightly and add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly—this usually takes around 7-10 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Mingle with Tomatoes and Veggies : Pour in canned tomatoes along with seasoning favorites like salt and pepper. Toss in frozen vegetables at this point too—let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes.

Add Cheese and Pasta/Rice : Stir in cooked pasta or rice until well combined with turkey mixture. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese—because more cheese is always better!

Bake Away!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer everything into a baking dish and pop it into the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it! A comforting ground turkey casserole that’s ready to fill your home with warmth and joy! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the onions and garlic for maximum flavor, then brown the ground turkey before adding vegetables and sauce for layered taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different veggies or spices according to your taste preferences. Adding cheese on top can elevate this dish to cheesy goodness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Sharing a laugh with friends about how my first casserole exploded in the oven taught me patience, and I still get ribbed about it at family gatherings.

FAQ

Can I make this ground turkey casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

Ground chicken or beef works well as alternatives in this casserole.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! It freezes well; just thaw before reheating for best results.

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Ground Turkey Casserole

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Ground turkey casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. This hearty casserole combines lean ground turkey with vibrant vegetables, savory spices, and gooey cheese, creating a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups cooked pasta or rice
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground turkey; cook until browned (7-10 minutes), stirring frequently.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and frozen vegetables; season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked pasta or rice and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg