Recently, I made a really special dish – a one-pot turkey chili Mac that is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. EVERYONE in the family devoured it! What’s not to love when you combine chili with mac and cheese and it’s healthy!
My kids especially loved this healthy one-pot turkey chili mac meal because it had all their favorite flavors – spices all combined to give a nice taco/ chili seasoning flavor, plus lots of cheesy goodness from the cheddar cheese. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also full of high protein and nutrient-rich ingredients like lean protein from the turkey and antioxidant-packed veggies like garlic and onions. Plus, you can serve this meal as is or top with your favorite garnishes like plain Greek yogurt or diced avocado for an even heartier meal!
There you have it – my easy, mom-approved healthy one-pot turkey chili mac recipe! This crowd-pleaser is sure to become a regular addition to your rotation of family favorites.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
This recipe can be used with any of your favorite pasta. Gluten-free pasta works well, although you may need to add more water during the cooking time. I like to use whole wheat pasta for a more nutrient-dense meal. I like using the brand Delallo for my whole wheat pasta as it gives the perfect texture that is kid-friendly and cooks beautifully in this recipe.
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! You can use any combination of your favorite beans. You could try a combination such as black beans, cannelloni beans, or whatever you have on hand!
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One Pot Cheesy Turkey Chili Mac
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Take taco Tuesday to the next level with this delicious One Pot Cheesy Turkey Taco Chili Mac recipe! Combining all of your favorite Mexican flavors in one easy dish, it’s a winning dinner idea that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds 93% Lean Ground Turkey
- 1 1/2 tsps Garlic Powder
- 1 1/2 tsps Cumin
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 1/2 tsps Chili Powder
- 1 1/2 tsps Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Oregano
- 1 Medium Onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 Red Bell Pepper (chopped)
- 10 oz Rotel Tomatoes With Green Chilies
- 14 oz Red Kidney Beans (drained)
- 14 oz Pinto Beans (drained)
- 8 ozs Tomato Sauce
- 1/2 can Fat Free Refried Beans
- 16 oz Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 3/4 cups Water
- 8 ozs Pasta Shells, or any dry whole wheat pasta (or plain)
- 3/4 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 2 tbsps Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat a large Dutch oven or pot with a fitted lid over medium-high heat and spray with oil, brown the turkey breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- When cooked through, add the onions, garlic, red pepper and seasonings; cook 2-3 minutes.
- Add the canned tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, refried beans, chicken broth and water.
- Bring to a boil, cover and simmer about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta and simmer uncovered over medium heat until al dente, about 6 minutes or according to package directions.
- Remove the pot from heat and top with the cheese, cover and let sit for about 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts.
- Serve garnished with fresh cilantro
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
