Healthy Taco Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

For The Casserole Base:

1. 1 lb lean ground turkey
2. 1 medium onion, finely diced
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1 packet taco seasoning
5. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
6. 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
7. 1 bell pepper, diced (choose your preferred color)
8. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
9. 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese

For The Casserole Toppings:

10. 2 cups shredded lettuce
11. 1 cup diced tomatoes
12. 1/2 cup diced red onions
13. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
14. 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt or light sour cream
15. 1 ripe avocado, sliced
16. Lime wedges for garnish

Optional Garnishes:

17. Sliced jalapeños
18. 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.