Cheesy Italian Turkey Cauliflower Rice Casserole is every bit as delicious as it sounds. With a mouthwatering blend of ground turkey, cauliflower rice, Greek yogurt, veggies, and an assortment of cheeses, this low-carb recipe is truly a showstopper.
They’re warm, comforting, and packed with rich, savory flavors. Once you try this Cauliflower Rice Casserole with ground turkey and veggies, you’ll be a casserole convert! This low-carb dinner is not only packed with protein and nutrients but also brimming with incredible flavor. And with a prep and cook time of under 45 minutes, it’s the ultimate healthy winter meal!
With just 15 minutes of prep time, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy it on its own or with a side salad for a satisfying and healthy dinner you’ll want to make time and time again!
KEY INGREDIENTS
To prepare this healthy turkey casserole, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Ground turkey: You can use any type you prefer, but I usually opt for the 93% lean version. Alternatively, ground chicken or beef can be used in place of turkey.
- Cauliflower rice: This low-carb substitute adds a satisfying texture to the dish. You can either make it yourself or use a store-bought version.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available.
- Canned tomatoes: I recommend fire-roasted tomatoes for added flavor, but regular canned diced tomatoes work well too—just be sure to drain them thoroughly.
- Greek yogurt: This ingredient provides a creamy texture and a healthy alternative to heavy cream or cream cheese. It also contributes beneficial probiotics and protein.
- Cream cheese: Essential for creating a rich, creamy base, light cream cheese is my choice to keep the dish on the lighter side.
- Parmesan and mozzarella cheese: This classic combination melts beautifully and adds irresistible flavor to the casserole.
- Baby spinach: Adds a splash of color and a wealth of nutrients, blending seamlessly with the other flavors in the dish.
RECIPE TIPS
Here are a few important tips for perfecting your casserole:
- Drain excess liquid: Be sure to drain any leftover liquid from the pan after cooking your spinach and tomatoes. Extra moisture can result in a watery casserole, which you definitely want to avoid.
- Keep the casserole uncovered: Unlike many recipes that require covering the dish with foil, this casserole benefits from being baked uncovered. This allows the cheese on top to form a delicious, crispy crust.
- Let it rest before serving: Although it might be tempting to dig in right away, it’s important to let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This resting period helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to serve and less likely to fall apart.
HOW TO SERVE CAULIFLOWER RICE CASSEROLE
This healthy casserole is a complete meal on its own, making it perfect as a standalone dish. However, if you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a larger family meal, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of my favorites to serve alongside cauliflower rice casserole:
Salad: A fresh salad is always a great side dish for any casserole. It’s quick to prepare while the casserole bakes and offers a light, crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Veggies: Adding cooked vegetables can complement the casserole beautifully. Roasted, grilled, or sautéed veggies are all excellent choices. You can even mix some extra veggies into the casserole or prepare them as a separate side.
Bread: Bread is a classic accompaniment to any casserole. Garlic bread or Two Ingredient Dough Breadsticks are excellent options to serve with this dish, adding an extra touch of comfort to your meal.
HOW TO STORE LEFTOVERS
One of the best things about casseroles is how easy they are to store! I often make an extra casserole to keep in the freezer for those busy days when I need a quick and easy meal. It’s amazing how handy this trick can be!
To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. You can then keep your leftovers in one of two ways:
- In the fridge for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer for up to 6 months.
CONCLUSION
This Cheesy Italian Turkey Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of a traditional casserole with the health benefits of cauliflower rice. Packed with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, it’s a perfect meal for any night of the week. The creamy sauce, flavorful Italian seasonings, and tender turkey create a truly unforgettable taste experience. So, whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or simply a tasty new recipe to try, this casserole is sure to please.
