Ground Turkey and Kale Casserole

Name: Ground Turkey and Kale Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups chopped kale; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

I love making this Ground Turkey and Kale Casserole when I need a quick yet nourishing meal for my family. The combination of lean turkey and nutrient-rich kale makes it a winning dish that's both delicious and healthy. Plus, it comes together in just one pot, which means less time spent on cleanup. I enjoy layering flavors in this dish, and the addition of garlic and onion really brings it to life. It’s become a go-to recipe in my house that I’m excited to share with you!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:49:27.666Z

This casserole not only highlights the flavors of ground turkey and kale but also gives me a chance to sneak in some extra veggies for my kids. I usually add bell peppers and carrots for a bit more color and nutrition. The best part is that it tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to!

I discovered that cooking the turkey until it’s nearly done before adding the kale helps prevent it from overcooking and becoming too wilted. This way, the kale retains a slight crunch, adding texture to the dish that contrasts beautifully with the tender turkey.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Healthy and satisfying comfort food for the whole family
Packed with protein and vitamins from fresh ingredients
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Casserole Composition

The foundation of this Ground Turkey and Kale Casserole lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ground turkey adds a lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the dish beautifully. When you sauté it with aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic, the mixture develops a rich base that enhances the overall taste. I like to cook the turkey until it's golden to intensify its flavor, which takes about 7-10 minutes on medium heat.

Kale plays an essential role in this recipe, not only for its vibrant green color but also for its nutritional profile. When added to the cooked mixture, it wilts down beautifully, becoming tender but still retaining a slight bite. The natural bitterness of kale is balanced out by the sweetness of the bell peppers and the acidity from the diced tomatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor that keeps every bite interesting.

Cheese Topping Tips

If you're adding cheese, consider using a blend of cheeses to enhance the dish's creaminess and flavor complexity. Cheddar melts beautifully, while mozzarella provides a stringy texture. A little sprinkle of Parmesan on top before melting can add a nice aged flavor. When you turn the heat down and cover the skillet, watch closely; it usually takes about 3-5 minutes for the cheese to melt and form a deliciously gooey layer that binds the casserole together.

For those who are dairy-free or looking to reduce calories, feel free to skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can be a wonderful substitute, providing a cheesy flavor without the fat. Just sprinkle it on right before serving to keep the flavors vibrant. Adjust the timing slightly if you’re skipping the cheese, as you can serve the dish immediately after the vegetables are tender and well incorporated.

Ingredients

Please gather the following ingredients before you start.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 cups chopped kale
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious casserole.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Incorporate Kale and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped kale, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the kale wilts.

Top with Cheese

If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the casserole mixture, lower the heat, and cover until the cheese melts.

Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, nutritious dish.

Pro Tips

Feel free to modify the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a skillet on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

If you want to save time during the week, you can prep the vegetables ahead of time. Chopped kale, bell peppers, and onions can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. This way, the prep time is significantly reduced when you’re ready to cook. Just remember to store the ingredients separately to maintain their freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Turkey and Kale Casserole makes a hearty main dish on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. The freshness of a salad can contrast nicely with the warm, comforting casserole. You might also consider dressing your salad with a light vinaigrette to add brightness to the meal.

For a touch of elegance, serve your casserole in individual oven-safe ramekins. This not only enhances presentation but also makes portion control easier. For added flair, you can garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little kick. These small touches make the dish feel more special without requiring extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well and has a similar texture.

→ Is the casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground turkey with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a side salad or some whole grain bread for a complete meal.