One-Pot Turkey Chili Mac
A comforting blend of hearty turkey, zesty chili, and pasta, perfect for quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey Use turkey thigh for extra flavor, or swap with ground chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat macaroni can be a great alternative.
- 1 onion, diced Fresh garlic adds depth—feel free to add minced garlic for an aromatic touch.
- 1 bell pepper, diced Any color will do! Each brings its unique sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Substitute with black beans or chickpeas for a different flair.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Homemade broth will enhance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon cumin This brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili perfectly.
- Salt and pepper To taste—don’t forget to season throughout the cooking process!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Swap for dairy-free cheese if preferred or try pepper jack for some heat!
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish Optional, but it brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
- Sprinkle the chili powder and cumin, stirring well to coat the meat and veggies.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni.
- Reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Add more veggies or spices to customize. This dish can also be made dairy-free or vegan.