ingredients
For The Casserole Base:
1 lb lean ground turkey
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 bell pepper, diced (choose your preferred color)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
For The Casserole Toppings:
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup diced red onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt or light sour cream
1 ripe avocado, sliced
Lime wedges for garnish
Optional Garnishes:
Sliced jalapeños
Salsa or pico de gallo
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
Cook the Ground Turkey:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Add Aromatics and Seasoning:
Add finely diced onions and minced garlic to the turkey, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the meat is well-coated and flavorful.
Incorporate Beans and Veggies:
Mix in black beans, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant and nutritious base for your casserole.
Layer in the Casserole Dish:
Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Cheese Layer:
Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese over the turkey mixture, creating a gooey and savory layer that adds richness to the casserole.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prepare Toppings:
While the casserole bakes, prepare the fresh toppings by chopping lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and avocado.
Assemble the Casserole:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before adding the fresh toppings.
Top with Fresh Ingredients:
Layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and avocado slices over the baked casserole, creating a vibrant and texturally diverse dish.
Creamy Finish:
Dollop non-fat Greek yogurt or light sour cream over the toppings, adding a creamy and tangy element that complements the savory flavors.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the casserole with sliced jalapeños, salsa, or pico de gallo for an optional kick of heat and freshness.
Serve the Weight W Taco Casserole hot, allowing your taste buds to revel in the symphony of flavors.