Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese is the perfect dish when you’re craving something hearty and comforting, but you also want a healthy twist. The combination of lean ground turkey, kidney beans, elbow macaroni, and flavorful spices creates a meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. The addition of gooey cheddar cheese takes this dish to another level, making it creamy and irresistible. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome dinner without too much hassle.
In this article, we’ll walk through the steps of making this delicious dish, provide tips for preparation, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into this satisfying, cheesy turkey chili mac recipe!
Ingredients (with quantities)
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in balancing flavors and providing a satisfying texture to the final dish.
- 1 lb ground turkey – A lean protein option that is flavorful and healthier than beef.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 bell pepper, diced – Provides a nice crunch and additional nutrients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds an aromatic element that enhances the flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – For a tangy, juicy base.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – Adds protein, fiber, and texture.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – A staple pasta that holds the sauce well.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor to cook the pasta.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star ingredient for that gooey, cheesy finish.
- 1 tbsp chili powder – For a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp cumin – Adds earthiness and warmth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- Olive oil for cooking – A healthy oil option for sautéing.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. These vegetables are essential for building the flavor base of the dish. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to cook for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Once the vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the ground turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. This process should take around 6-8 minutes. The turkey will start to take on the flavors of the vegetables and spices, making it tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Season the Meat
When the turkey is browned, it’s time to season it. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir these spices into the meat and vegetables, allowing everything to cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will ensure that the spices are well distributed and the flavors begin to meld together.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Next, add the can of diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the skillet. The tomatoes add acidity and moisture, while the beans provide a hearty texture and boost of protein. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.
After this, pour in the chicken broth. The broth serves a dual purpose: it adds flavor and provides the necessary liquid to cook the pasta directly in the skillet, eliminating the need for boiling pasta separately.
Step 5: Cook the Macaroni
Once the broth is added, stir in the elbow macaroni. Ensure that the macaroni is fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dish simmer for about 12 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the broth and cook to a perfect al dente texture.
Check the pasta occasionally to make sure it’s not sticking to the bottom of the skillet. If the liquid level gets too low, you can add a splash more broth or water.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
When the macaroni is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Now it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the cheese into the hot skillet, letting it melt and create a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bite of turkey, beans, and pasta.
The cheese gives the dish its indulgent, comforting finish, turning this turkey chili mac into a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese is now ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it while it’s still hot and gooey. You can add toppings such as sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese if desired, though it’s plenty delicious as-is.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back some moisture.
2. Can I freeze Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese?
Absolutely! This dish freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a bit of broth to refresh it.
3. Can I substitute ground beef for turkey?
Yes, if you prefer beef over turkey, you can easily substitute ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that beef will add more richness and fat to the dish, so you might want to drain any excess grease after browning the meat.
4. Can I use other types of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other small pasta shapes such as shells, penne, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the type of pasta.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
The chili powder gives the dish a mild level of spice. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot chili powder. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.
6. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe even healthier, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or add extra vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or spinach. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on salt.
7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version of this recipe, simply omit the ground turkey and replace it with extra beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
8. What can I serve with Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking for side dishes, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables would complement it nicely. Cornbread or garlic bread would also be a great addition.
9. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this dish in an Instant Pot for a quicker version. Sauté the vegetables and turkey using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients (except for the cheese) and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. After a quick release, stir in the cheese.
Conclusion
Turkey Chili Mac & Cheese is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition, bringing together the flavors of a classic chili with the creaminess of mac and cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With lean ground turkey, fiber-packed beans, and just the right amount of cheese, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.
Not only is this meal delicious, but it’s also customizable and easy to adapt to your dietary preferences. You can swap out ingredients, increase the heat, or add more veggies depending on your taste. Plus, it’s an ideal dish to make ahead and enjoy later, as the flavors deepen over time.