Quick Turkey and Zucchini Loaf

Name: Quick Turkey and Zucchini Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 medium zucchini, grated; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Meals

I always find myself scrambling for dinner ideas on busy weeknights, and this Quick Turkey and Zucchini Loaf has become a go-to in our household. It's packed with lean protein and vegetables, making it both nourishing and satisfying. The best part? It only takes 15 minutes of prep time and can be popped in the oven while I tackle other evening tasks. With the amazing flavors of turkey paired with the moisture of zucchini, I guarantee that this loaf will delight your taste buds while being a breeze to prepare!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:30:19.229Z

When I first decided to make this turkey and zucchini loaf, I was skeptical about how flavors would meld together. But upon slicing into the freshly baked loaf, I was pleasantly surprised by the combination of herbs and the subtle sweetness of zucchini.

One important detail I discovered is to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini. This small step actually makes a big difference, ensuring our loaf stays perfectly defined and not soggy. Since then, it's become a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A hearty dish that pairs protein with veggies
Easy to prepare and perfectly moist
Perfect for meal prep and can be easily frozen

Maximizing Flavor with Ingredients

The combination of ground turkey and grated zucchini not only enhances texture but also boosts nutritional value. Ground turkey is a lean protein source that keeps the loaf light yet filling. Zucchini adds moisture, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. I recommend opting for medium-sized zucchini, which has a balanced moisture content—too large, and it might lead to excess water, while too small may lack the necessary juice.

The incorporation of Parmesan cheese is a game changer in this loaf. It doesn't just add an extra layer of flavor; it also contributes to the crust’s slightly crisp texture, creating a delightful contrast to the moist interior. If you prefer a different cheese, a sharp cheddar can provide a bolder flavor, but be mindful of its stronger taste, which may overshadow the turkey and zucchini.

Techniques for a Perfect Bake

To ensure even cooking, it's essential to shape the loaf evenly in the pan. Press down firmly but gently, as an uneven loaf may cook inconsistently, leading to some parts being dry while others remain undone. For best results, aim for a uniform thickness across the loaf, which should ideally be about 2-3 inches deep. This allows for proper heat circulation and minimizes the risk of a soggy center.

Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial. Invest in a reliable meat thermometer, and check the loaf around the 45-minute mark for doneness. You're looking for a warm, firm center reading at 165°F (74°C). If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil towards the end to prevent over-browning while the center continues to cook through.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel, twisting to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, squeezed zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, pressing it down to shape evenly. Drizzle olive oil on top.

Bake the Loaf

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cool and Serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also use ground chicken instead of turkey for a different taste.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey and zucchini loaf can pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, enhancing its nutritional profile. A tangy vinaigrette can contrast nicely with the loaf's savory profile, while roasted vegetables can add depth of flavor. For a heartier meal, serve slices in sandwich form using whole-grain bread and your choice of condiments, like mustard or homemade pesto.

Leftovers make for a fantastic lunch option! Slice the cooled loaf, and enjoy it cold or briefly reheated. Place slices in a warm sandwich press or toaster oven until golden, ensuring the interior stays moist. You could also crumble leftovers over a leafy green salad for an on-the-go protein-packed meal.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before storing, allow the loaf to cool completely to avoid excess condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Alternatively, this recipe freezes exceptionally well—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen slices, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick option, heating for 1-2 minutes at a time until warm. This preserves the loaf's moisture and keeps it delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the turkey and zucchini loaf?

Yes, this loaf freezes beautifully! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

It's great served with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

→ Can I use fresh zucchini instead of grated?

Grating is best as it helps to incorporate the moisture. If you prefer slices, make sure to adjust cooking time and moisture content accordingly.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Using gluten-free breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free; otherwise, it contains gluten from traditional breadcrumbs.