If you are looking for a cozy, creamy, and absolutely satisfying dinner that keeps your keto lifestyle on track, this Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Packed with tender ground turkey, vibrant spinach, and gooey cheeses all brought together in a luscious, velvety sauce with riced cauliflower, this casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for warming up those busy weeknights with a dish everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining simple yet essential elements that create amazing layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty ground turkey to the vibrant fresh spinach and creamy cheeses, every component enhances this dish’s appeal and keeps it delightfully low-carb.
- 1 pound ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps the casserole hearty without extra carbs.
- 2 cups riced cauliflower: A perfect low-carb substitute for rice, adding subtle texture and nutrients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds healthy fat and helps cook the turkey for a flavorful start.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the base of the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with classic aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that layers in Mediterranean charm.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky undertone that lifts the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural tastes in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of seasoning bite.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed: Makes the casserole rich and luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds smoothness and indulgence to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and balances flavors gently.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Offers meltiness and gooey texture on and in the casserole.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers a tangy punch and richness to the mix.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped: Brightens the dish with color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Topped off for a nutty, savory crust.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to each serving.
How to Make Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so everything bakes up perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula while cooking until it’s no longer pink and has some lovely light browning. This step is crucial as it builds a rich flavor foundation for your casserole.
Step 3: Season and Soften the Veggies
Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to coat the turkey evenly. Then add the finely chopped onion, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and delicately soft, releasing its natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until you can smell its wonderful aroma, about 30 seconds, stirring continuously so it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat to medium-low and add the softened cream cheese cubes. Stir constantly until they melt and start to coat the turkey evenly. Then pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth little by little, stirring until the texture is smooth and creamy—this sauce is what makes this casserole irresistibly rich.
Step 5: Combine the Fresh and Cheesy Ingredients
Fold in the riced cauliflower and freshly chopped spinach, mixing gently until the spinach just begins to wilt, keeping its lovely green color and nutrients intact. Sprinkle in 3/4 cup of shredded mozzarella and all the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted fully into the sauce, creating a cheesy embrace for all the flavors.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer this beautiful turkey mixture to your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. Scatter the remaining 3/4 cup mozzarella over the top along with the grated Parmesan cheese, which will create a golden, bubbling crust as it bakes. Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbling around the edges. For a show-stopping finish, broil it for 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye so the top browns perfectly without burning.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes—this helps it to set so slices hold their shape beautifully. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh and inviting touch just before serving.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is fantastic on this casserole, adding a pop of vibrant color and that unmistakable fresh herb brightness. If you want to go further, a small dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add contrasting creaminess or a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong as a satisfying main course, but pairing it with a fresh keto-friendly green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts can round out the meal deliciously. A side of creamy mashed cauliflower also complements it without adding carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or meal prepping, consider baking this casserole in individual ramekins for pretty, personalized portions. Alternatively, serve it in a cast-iron skillet straight from the oven for that rustic, homey charm that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for tasty next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to make this Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe ahead in bulk, it freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warm and bubbly or place the entire casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. A quick broil at the end can refresh that golden cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and offers a similarly mild flavor and lean protein that complements the creamy sauce and veggies perfectly.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prep. It reheats well, and leftovers maintain their taste and texture for several days.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you would need to substitute the cheese and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The texture and flavor will shift slightly, but it can still be tasty.
What is the best way to ensure the cauliflower doesn’t get mushy?
Use riced cauliflower that has been thawed and patted dry if frozen. Avoid adding excess liquid and cook just until the spinach wilts to keep a pleasant texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers could be added to boost veggies, just sauté them along with the onions to soften before mixing everything together.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe enough if you want an easy, flavorful, and satisfying low-carb dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender turkey and fresh spinach makes every bite a pleasure. Give it a try—you just might find a new favorite go-to meal that keeps both your taste buds and keto goals happily satisfied.
Print
Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Mouthwatering Keto Ground Turkey Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and wholesome one-dish meal perfect for low-carb diets. Loaded with ground turkey, riced cauliflower, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses, this casserole offers a comforting, savory flavor balanced by nutritious ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, baked to bubbly perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
Cheeses and Dairy
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season Turkey: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper over the cooked turkey. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the spices.
- Sauté Onions: Add finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Melt Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low and add cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and starts to coat the turkey mixture smoothly.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir constantly until the mixture forms a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
- Add Cauliflower and Spinach: Fold in riced cauliflower and chopped spinach. Mix until fully combined and the spinach begins to wilt slightly.
- Melt Cheeses Into Sauce: Stir in 3/4 cup of shredded mozzarella and all shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt thoroughly into the sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the turkey and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Optional Broil to Brown Top: For a golden, crispy top, broil the casserole for 2 to 3 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.
- Rest before Serving: Remove casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the casserole. Portion it out and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed frozen riced cauliflower for best texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste if you prefer it spicier or milder.
- For a lower fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- To make the casserole dairy-free, swap cream cheese and heavy cream with appropriate non-dairy alternatives and use dairy-free cheese.
