Description
The Southwestern Ground Turkey Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining seasoned ground turkey, smoky smoked turkey bacon, colorful bell peppers, black beans, and plant-based shredded cheese, all baked together with zesty Southwestern spices. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, offering a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and vibrant flavors in a simple, wholesome recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Meat
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Seasonings and Flavorings
- 2 tbsp Southwestern seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika) (natural)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Cheese and Binding
- 1 cup plant-based shredded cheese
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Aromatics: Crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until golden and slightly crunchy. Remove and set aside. Using the rendered fat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the same skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Stir in the Southwestern seasoning blend (natural) and cook for a few minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Add Veggies and Beans: Add the diced bell peppers, black beans, and canned diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook together for several minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and the mixture is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the turkey mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the plant-based shredded cheese evenly over the top. Crumble the cooked smoked turkey bacon across the casserole. Add the natural gelling agent and stir lightly to distribute.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, lightly browned, and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
Notes
- Use freshly ground spices for more vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook bell peppers; keep them slightly crisp for texture contrast.
- Mix different types of plant-based cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.
- Double the recipe to freeze leftovers for future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Southwestern, Ground Turkey, Casserole, Plant-Based Cheese, Gluten Free, Family Meal, One Dish
