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A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring lean ground turkey, spinach, and cheddar cheese, delivering a high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped or whole (or thawed frozen spinach, thoroughly drained)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly shredded, divided
  • 1 egg
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch (or similar) baking dish.
  2. Let 4 oz cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook 1 lb ground turkey for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up until browned and no pink remains (internal temperature 165°F).
  4. Stir in ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, and black pepper to taste.
  5. If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out all excess water.
  6. Add 5 oz fresh or drained frozen spinach to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
  7. Turn heat to low, add the softened cream cheese, and stir until melted and fully combined with the turkey and spinach.
  8. Remove skillet from heat and let mixture cool for 4–5 minutes.
  9. Beat 1 egg and stir it along with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese into the cooled turkey mixture.
  10. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
  11. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
  12. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing to hold together better for serving and leftovers.

Notes

Use fresh shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and texture compared to pre-shredded., Thoroughly drain frozen spinach to avoid excess moisture and soggy casserole., Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for smoother blending., Cool turkey mixture before adding egg to prevent scrambling., For doubling the recipe, use a 9×13-inch dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, watching for bubbly edges., Freeze cooked casserole wrapped tightly for up to 3 months; reheat by thawing overnight and baking at 350°F for 25 minutes., Alternatively, freeze assembled casserole before baking; bake from frozen at 375°F for 50–60 minutes, loosely covered with foil., Reheat individual portions covered in microwave for 1–2 minutes or in oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes., Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice; sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers; alternative cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack; dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based cheese for dairy-free versions; crunchy toppings like almond flour crackers, breadcrumbs, or crispy onions., Adjust seasoning carefully as cheese adds salt., Make mini portions without spinach for picky eaters.

Nutrition