Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, satisfying meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This ground turkey bake recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, bursting with vegetables, and requires minimal cleanup – a true win-win for busy weeknights. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals all rolled into one delicious dish. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet or a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Brown the Turkey: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and corn. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet (or pour the mixture into the baking dish) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and heated through. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the turkey bake cool slightly before serving. This dish is fantastic on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Bake:
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious additions.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to eat.
Variations:
- Southwestern Turkey Bake: Add a packet of taco seasoning, diced jalapeños, and black beans instead of kidney beans. Top with crumbled tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Italian Turkey Bake: Use Italian seasoning instead of oregano and basil. Add a can of diced tomatoes and some fresh spinach. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This ground turkey bake recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy addition to your repertoire of food recipes and best recipes. It's a fantastic example of how easy it is to create delicious dishes and healthy meals using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. It's a perfect example of a quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!