Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and perfectly low-carb for anyone following a keto lifestyle. Whether you need a fast weeknight dinner or a cozy meal prep option, this casserole hits the spot with tender ground turkey and vibrant spinach all wrapped up in a cheesy, dreamy sauce. I love how it comes together easily, and you’ll enjoy how satisfying it is without relying on heavy carbs. If you’re a fan of healthy, hearty casseroles, this is definitely for you.
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What Makes This So Good
This Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and fresh greens, all while keeping carbs low. The layering of melted mozzarella with juicy, well-seasoned turkey and just-wilted spinach creates incredible texture contrasts and deep flavors in every bite.
- Big Flavor, Minimal Fuss: You get cheesy, savory satisfaction without spending hours in the kitchen or juggling a million ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters tend to love this casserole’s comforting flavors and creamy texture.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples like ground turkey, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella make this super accessible.
- Works Any Night: Whether it’s a busy weekday or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole adapts effortlessly.
Ingredient Guide
Choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference when crafting your Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe. I'll walk you through what to look for and how to prep each component for maximum flavor and ease.
- Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier dish; it browns nicely and keeps the casserole moist without excess fat.
- Fresh Spinach: Use vibrant, fresh spinach rather than frozen if possible – it wilts perfectly in the sauce and adds a pop of green.
- Heavy Cream & Cream Cheese: These two deliver creaminess and richness; soften cream cheese beforehand to blend seamlessly.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and gives that golden, bubbly top everyone craves.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics that start the flavor base; dice onion finely so it cooks evenly.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme boosts the savory depth without extra effort.
Quick Reminder: Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe
Step 1 — Prep & Ready
First off, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, chop the fresh spinach roughly but not too finely—you’ll want leaves that still feel substantial in the casserole. Dice the onion into small pieces for even cooking, and mince the garlic so it releases maximum aroma during sautéing. I usually soften cream cheese in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make mixing effortless later on.
Step 2 — Cook with Confidence
Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and toss in your diced onion and garlic. You’ll notice they get soft and fragrant in just a few minutes—this is your flavor foundation. Add the ground turkey next, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. When you stir in the fresh spinach, it will wilt down quickly, releasing a fresh green vibrancy. Lower the heat and fold in heavy cream, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce coating the turkey and spinach beautifully.
Step 3 — Finish & Serve
Transfer your creamy turkey and spinach mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top—the cheese layer is what makes this casserole addictive as it bakes to golden bubbly perfection. Pop it in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. When you see the edges crisping up and the cheese bubbling gloriously, it’s ready. Let it cool a few minutes before serving so flavors settle and you avoid any burns. Enjoy that first cheesy, creamy spoonful—it’s pure comfort.
Extra Helpful Tips
I’ve made this Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe many times and learned a few tricks that keep it delicious every time. Don’t rush the browning of the turkey—browned bits add amazing depth. Also, make sure cream cheese is softened for a silky sauce. If you like it cheesier, don’t hesitate to add an extra handful of mozzarella on top before baking.
- Watch for This Sign: When the cheese on top is bubbly and golden with crispy edges, that’s your cue to pull it from the oven.
- Temperature Trick: Using medium heat to cook your turkey helps prevent toughness and keeps it juicy for the bake.
- Prep-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Then just bake fresh before serving.
- Avoid This Common Mistake: Don’t add too much spinach raw—overloading can water down the casserole’s creamy texture.
Serve & Enjoy
Easy Enhancements
Here’s a fun way to switch up your Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe: sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or smoked gouda on top before baking for a smoky, nutty twist. Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms inside the filling layers can also amp up flavor complexity. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes brings subtle heat if you like it spicy. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley added after baking add freshness to balance the creamy richness.
Tasty Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through richness. Roasted garlic cauliflower mash or garlicky sautéed green beans make cozy low-carb sides that complement the flavors without overwhelming them. For drinks, a clean dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or just sparkling water with a twist of lime keeps the meal bright and balanced.
Quick Plating Tips
For an inviting presentation, serve the casserole in shallow bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives to add color and a fresh herbaceous note. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top gives it a rustic touch. If you like, add a lemon wedge on the side for a subtle zing your guests can add themselves. Simple, yet effective ways to elevate your cozy meal’s look without any fuss.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Fridge Storage
You can keep leftover Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just be aware that the spinach might release a little moisture over time, so the texture softens slightly but still tastes delicious reheated. I usually microwave individual portions covered loosely so it reheats evenly.
Freezer Friendly?
This casserole freezes well, which makes it a fantastic meal prep candidate. Freeze in individual portions or a whole dish using freezer-safe containers. To avoid sogginess, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you’re short on time, reheating from frozen in a moderate oven works, but the texture will be best with a full thaw.
Reheat Like New
Reheating in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes) helps maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and melts the cheese perfectly again. Alternatively, microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, heating in 1-2 minute increments stirring in between. A quick skillet reheat with a lid on can also revive crisp edges if you like a bit of crunch on top.
Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even beef can be swapped in depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and seasoned well.
You can, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery casserole. Fresh spinach works best to keep the texture bright and fresh.
Try substituting cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Yes, doubling works great! Portion out into meal-sized containers before freezing for quick keto-friendly meals ready to heat and enjoy.
Final Flavor Thoughts
I hope you love making this Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe as much as I do. It’s an easy, reliable dish that balances creamy comfort with wholesome goodness. When you try it, don’t hesitate to leave a rating or share what mix-ins you added — I always enjoy hearing how friends make it their own. Next time, try swapping in kale or adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little kick. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always smell as cozy as mine does when this casserole is baking!
Print📖 Recipe
Keto Ground Turkey and Spinach Casserole Recipe
A delicious and creamy keto-friendly casserole featuring ground turkey and fresh spinach, baked with a rich blend of cheeses and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a low-carb, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Turkey and Spinach: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned thoroughly, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt slightly.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Mix in the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the turkey and spinach mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with a keto-friendly cheese of your choice.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic and onion.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat, making it ideal for keto diets.
- Make sure to soften cream cheese beforehand to ensure smooth mixing.
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