Ground Turkey Casserole

Ground Turkey Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines lean ground turkey, pasta, and melted cheese in a baked casserole that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is packed with flavor and easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lean and Healthy: Ground turkey is a great low-fat alternative to ground beef without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to recipe for weeknights.
• Family Favorite: Cheesy, creamy, and filling—it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and reheats well.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground turkey
• Egg noodles or pasta of choice
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Sour cream
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Turkey Mixture
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Stir in tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Make the Creamy Layer
   In a separate bowl, mix sour cream and softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread cooked pasta evenly in the dish. Pour the turkey and tomato mixture over the noodles. Spread the sour cream and cream cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
5. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or riced cauliflower.
• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the turkey mixture.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Different Cheeses: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Ground Turkey Casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight before baking.

What type of pasta works best?

Egg noodles are traditional, but rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni also work great.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese alternatives.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken can be used in place of turkey with similar results.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Don’t overbake, and if reheating, add a splash of water or broth before covering with foil to retain moisture.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.

Can I add beans to the recipe?

Sure! Black beans or cannellini beans add fiber and bulk—just stir them in with the sauce.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add chili flakes or spicy sausage if you’d like to turn up the heat.

What’s the best way to reheat individual portions?

Microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Casserole is a comforting, versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy nights. With lean protein, creamy cheese, and rich flavor, it’s a winning combination of healthy and hearty that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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