Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese (Printable)
Hearty and comforting, this dish features lean ground turkey, zesty chili, and creamy mac and cheese. Ideal for family dinners.
# Ingredient List:
→ Meats
01 - 1 pound lean ground turkey
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pantry Staples
05 - 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
06 - 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
09 - 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
→ Dairy
10 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 1/2 cup milk
→ Spices and Seasonings
12 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
14 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
18 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm a drizzle of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until thoroughly browned, using a spoon to break it into small pieces, approximately 5 minutes.
02 - Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables have softened, which will take about 4 to 5 minutes.
03 - Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant.
04 - Incorporate the tomato paste, undrained diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed kidney beans, and chicken broth. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the simmering mixture. Stir well, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
06 - Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
07 - Taste the chili mac and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh chopped cilantro.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It's a complete meal in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time for yourself.
- The blend of savory chili flavors with creamy mac and cheese is a delightful surprise that kids and adults adore.
02 -
- Don't overcook the macaroni before adding the cheese; it will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat and you want it al dente.
- Adding the cheese off the direct heat or on low prevents it from becoming grainy, ensuring a perfectly smooth, velvety sauce.
03 -
- For an even richer flavor, let the chili base simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes before adding the macaroni, allowing the spices to fully bloom.
- Shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce less smooth.