Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

There’s something magical about the aroma of a hearty casserole baking in the oven on a chilly evening. In our home, my cozy ground turkey casserole has become the definition of comfort food, bringing the family together around the table no matter how hectic our day has been. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago when trying to create healthier versions of our favorite comfort foods, and it’s evolved into our most requested dinner. When the temperatures drop and you’re craving something warm and satisfying, this cozy ground turkey casserole delivers that perfect blend of nutrition and comfort.

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Kitchen Tools for Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

Before diving into this cozy ground turkey casserole recipe, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Ingredients for Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

To make about 6 servings, you’ll need:

• 1½ pounds ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red adds nice color)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend), divided
• ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Variations

Customize your cozy ground turkey casserole with these simple swaps and additions:

• Protein options: Substitute ground chicken, lean ground beef, or plant-based ground meat alternatives
• Grain alternatives: Try farro, cauliflower rice, or pasta instead of rice
• Vegetable add-ins: Consider mushrooms, zucchini, corn, broccoli, or carrots
• Sauce variations: Use cream of chicken soup, homemade white sauce, or jarred Alfredo sauce
• Flavor boosters: Add 1-2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or pesto
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream soup, plant-based yogurt, and your favorite vegan cheese
• Spice adjustments: Incorporate red pepper flakes, taco seasoning, or curry powder for different flavor profiles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. Gather all ingredients, chop vegetables, and measure seasonings before you begin cooking.

2. Cook the Ground Turkey Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then add the diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Add the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the turkey mixture, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Combine with Rice and Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the cooked rice or quinoa and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese begins to melt into the mixture.

6. Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with the melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese over the casserole, then top with the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown and crispy.

7. Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

This versatile cozy ground turkey casserole can be served in several delicious ways:

• In shallow bowls for a comforting dinner experience
• Alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal
• Packed in lunch containers for satisfying midday meals
• Scooped into lettuce cups for a lower-carb option

Storing and Reheating Tips

This cozy ground turkey casserole is perfect for meal prep and leftovers:

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer Instructions:

• Cool completely before freezing
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with foil
• Label with date and freeze for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating

Reheating Methods:

• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through
• Oven: Cover with foil and heat at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through
• Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain moisture

Notes

• For a crispier topping, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking
• Make ahead by assembling the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating, then baking when needed
• If your mixture seems too soupy, you can add ¼ cup of instant rice to absorb excess liquid
• For a more indulgent version, add ¼ cup of cream cheese to the sauce mixture
• This casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting to friends and family in need

Common Questions About Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

Can I use frozen vegetables in this casserole?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. If using frozen vegetables, add them directly to the skillet and cook for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess moisture. There’s no need to thaw them first.

How can I make this casserole lower in carbs?

To reduce carbs, replace the rice with cauliflower rice or simply use less rice and more vegetables. You can also skip the breadcrumb topping or use crushed pork rinds instead for a low-carb alternative.

What’s the best way to prevent a dry casserole?

Make sure not to overcook the ground turkey, as this can make it dry. The combination of soup, broth, and sour cream should provide enough moisture, but if your casserole seems dry when mixing, add an extra ¼ cup of broth or milk.

Can I use ground turkey with higher fat content?

Yes, you can use ground turkey with higher fat content (such as 85/15), but you may want to drain some of the fat after cooking. The benefit of using fattier ground turkey is that it tends to be more flavorful and less likely to dry out.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator.

How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

This recipe is very forgiving when it comes to adding more vegetables. Simply increase the amount of bell peppers, add some diced carrots, mix in corn, or incorporate mushrooms. Just be aware that vegetables with high water content may make your casserole more liquid.

If you’ve tried this “ Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole ” recipe or any other recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience making it. And if you snapped some shots of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories!

Cozy Ground Turkey Casserole

This cozy ground turkey casserole combines lean protein with vegetables and a creamy sauce for a satisfying one-dish meal. It comes together in less than an hour.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time :15 minutes mins

Cook Time :35 minutes mins

Total Time :46 minutes mins

Cuisine :American

Servings :6

Ingredients

  

• 1½ pounds ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red adds nice color)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend), divided
• ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. Gather all ingredients, chop vegetables, and measure seasonings before you begin cooking.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then add the diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Add the diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Add the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute.
• Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the turkey mixture, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the cooked rice or quinoa and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese begins to melt into the mixture.
• Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with the melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese over the casserole, then top with the breadcrumb mixture.

  Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown and crispy.
• Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Facts

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