Ground Turkey Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty dish like Ground Turkey Casserole. Picture a chilly fall evening, where the leaves rustle outside and you’re cozied up in your kitchen, the aroma of savory ingredients filling the air. This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. I love whipping this up when I want something that nourishes both the body and soul, and it’s a fantastic way to use wholesome ingredients. You might be surprised at how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

This dish is everything I love in a casserole: it’s filling, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to prepare. I often find myself craving this delightful combo of ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese. The best part? You can customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table as you share this dish with family and friends.

So, if you’re looking for a comforting meal to warm your heart and fill your stomach, let’s dive into this delicious Ground Turkey Casserole recipe. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become a staple in your kitchen!

Shopping List for Ground Turkey Casserole

When it comes to making a fantastic Ground Turkey Casserole, the ingredients are key to achieving that delicious balance of flavors and textures. Each element plays a part, from the hearty cauliflower rice that forms the base to the creamy sour cream that binds everything together. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this comforting dish.

• 4 cups frozen cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative that serves as the perfect base for the casserole.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• 1 lb. brown Cremini mushrooms: They add a delicious earthy flavor and meaty texture.
• 1 medium onion: A must-have for flavor that forms the aromatic base of the dish.
• 2 green bell peppers: Their crunch and sweetness perfectly complement the other ingredients.
• 2 teaspoons Greek Seasoning: This brings a warm depth of flavor that ties everything together.
• 1 teaspoon Greek Oregano: A classic herb that adds a fragrant touch to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Spike Seasoning: An all-purpose seasoning that elevates the overall taste.
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion: Freshness and crunch that add a lovely garnish.
• 1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey: The main protein that keeps the casserole hearty.
• Salt and fresh-ground black pepper: For seasoning to taste.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole together.
• 1/3 cup chicken broth: Enhances the moisture and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup crumbled Feta Cheese: Brings a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the other creamy cheeses.
• 1 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness to the casserole.

Instructions for Ground Turkey Casserole

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Making this Ground Turkey Casserole is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you step by step. Keep your ingredients organized, and let’s get cooking!

1. First things first, make sure to thaw the cauliflower rice in the fridge before you begin the cooking process. This will ensure it cooks evenly and blends well into the other ingredients.

2. Next, preheat your oven to 375F/190C. This way, your casserole is ready to bake as soon as you finish assembling it.

3. Grab a glass or crockery casserole dish and spray it with non-stick spray or brush it with some olive oil. I usually opt for a 9″ x 12″ dish, but any similar size will work well.

4. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. If your Cremini mushrooms aren’t pre-sliced, take a moment to wash and slice them. Once the oil is hot, add the mushrooms and sauté until they are nicely browned. Once done, transfer the mushrooms to the prepared bowl.

5. While the mushrooms are cooking, go ahead and chop up the onion and green bell peppers. Also, slice the green onions for later. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process seamless.

6. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to your frying pan. Sauté the chopped onion and green pepper until they start to develop some color. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle in the Greek Seasoning, Greek Oregano, and Spike Seasoning, stirring for another few minutes to allow those flavors to meld.

7. Next, stir in the thawed cauliflower rice into the vegetable mixture. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, ensuring most of the moisture evaporates. You want the rice to have a nice, fluffy texture.

8. Once that’s done, turn off the heat and fold in the sliced green onions into the rice mixture. Carefully transfer this blend to the bowl with the cooked mushrooms, giving it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.

9. Now, let’s switch gears. Turn the heat back on to medium-high and add the last tablespoon of olive oil to the frying pan. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Be patient; this step is crucial. Most ground turkey will release some water, so it needs time to brown properly. Season with a touch of salt and fresh-ground black pepper.

10. Once the turkey is browned, add it to the bowl with the other ingredients and mix well to combine. You want every ingredient to be coated and evenly distributed.

11. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, chicken broth, Feta cheese, and 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Stir this creamy mixture gently into the large bowl with the turkey and vegetables.

12. Transfer everything into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil or a lid, depending on what you have.

13. Now comes the magic of baking! Place the covered casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. After that time, remove it from the oven and take off the foil.

14. Put the casserole back into the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the top is beautifully browned and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when you can see that delicious golden crust.

15. Serve the casserole hot right from the oven, maybe with a dollop of sour cream on top if you like. It keeps well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option!

Helpful Hints

When you’re making the Ground Turkey Casserole, here are some tips to keep in mind for the best results!

• Storage: After cooking, let the casserole cool before storing it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions of this casserole for easy future meals. Just ensure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Consider serving this casserole with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Reheating: To reheat the casserole, you can use the oven or microwave. Make sure it’s heated all the way through for the best taste.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in different vegetables, or try swapping out the cheeses for a unique twist!
• Serving size: Depending on your appetite and sides, this casserole typically serves about four people comfortably.

What to Pair With Ground Turkey Casserole

• Fresh Green Salad: A light green salad made with seasonal vegetables balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with some warm garlic bread for a comforting addition and to soak up the casserole’s delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables complement the flavors beautifully and add extra nutrients.
• Seasonal Side Dishes: This casserole pairs well with autumn-inspired sides, such as roasted squash or sweet potatoes.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for a busy week.
• Leftover Ideas: You can transform leftover casserole into a delicious breakfast hash by adding eggs and heating it up in a pan!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ground Turkey Casserole is truly a delightful dish that seamlessly combines flavors and textures for a comforting meal. With its creamy goodness and hearty ingredients, it’s a perfect recipe to warm up your kitchen and your heart. I encourage you to try making this casserole for your next family meal or gathering; it’s sure to impress!

Ground Turkey Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Ground Turkey Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor! Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s an easy weeknight dish that warms the heart!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups frozen cauliflower rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 lb. brown Cremini mushrooms sliced
• 1 medium onion
• 2 green bell peppers
• 2 teaspoons Greek Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Greek Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Spike Seasoning
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion
• 1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey
• salt to taste
• fresh-ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup crumbled Feta Cheese
• 1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack Cheese

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Thaw cauliflower rice in the fridge before you make this recipe.
2. Preheat oven to 375F/190C. Spray a glass or crockery casserole dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat and cook mushrooms until nicely browned. Put mushrooms in a large bowl.
4. While mushrooms cook, chop onions and green pepper and slice green onions.
5. Add another tablespoon olive oil to the frying pan and cook onions and green pepper until starting to brown, then add Greek Seasoning, Greek Oregano, and Spike Seasoning and cook a few minutes more.
6. Then add the thawed cauliflower rice to the pan and cook 4-5 minutes stirring a few times, until most of the moisture in the rice has steamed off and evaporated.
7. Turn off heat and stir sliced green onions into the cauliflower rice mixture, then transfer it to the bowl with the mushrooms and combine.
8. Turn heat back to medium high, add the last tablespoon of oil into the frying pan, and cook the ground turkey until it's nicely browned, breaking apart with a turner as it cooks.
9. Add browned turkey to the bowl with other ingredients and stir to combine all ingredients.
10. Mix together the sour cream, chicken stock, crumbled Feta, and 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, then gently stir that into the other ingredients in the bowl.
11. Put the mixture into a glass or crockery casserole dish and sprinkle with the other 3/4 cup Monterey Jack Cheese.
12. Cover the casserole dish with foil, or use the lid if your casserole dish has one.
13. Bake the covered casserole for 20 minutes, then remove from oven and take off the foil.
14. Put back in the oven and bake about 20 minutes more, or until the top is nicely browned and the casserole is bubbling hot.
15. Serve hot, with sour cream to add at the table if desired.
16. This keeps well in the fridge and freezes well, and it can be reheated either in a covered dish in the oven or in the microwave.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.