This simple one-pot meal is a savory and rich turkey chili, elbow macaroni noodles, and mild cheddar cheese all melted together into one family-friendly dinner. You and your family are going to love this recipe!
Ingredients
1tbspextra virgin olive oil
1.5poundslean ground turkey
1onion,diced
1tbspminced garlic
1tbspchili powder
2tspcumin
1tsppaprika
1tspgarlic powder
1/2tspsalt
1/2tspblack pepper
1/4tspred chili flakes
114-oz.diced tomatoes
3cupsbeef broth or chicken brothif you need more, adjust based on consistency
115.5-oz.sodium dark red kidney beans,rinsed and drained
12oz.elbow macaroni or whole-grain elbow macaronidry
8ouncesmild cheddar cheese or reduced-fat mild cheddar shredded cheeseI like to hand shred an 8 ounce block of cheese for easy melting
Instructions
Using a large stockpot, or Dutch oven, add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it is browned and cooked, about 4-6 minutes.
Drain the cooked ground turkey to remove any fat and set it aside.
In the same large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil. Add the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
Return the cooked ground turkey to the stockpot or Dutch oven and add the spices. Stir to cover the ground turkey evenly.
Add the diced tomatoes and broth and stir. Bring up to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add the kidney beans and the dry elbow macaroni pasta. Stir together, and continue simmering for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to al dente.
Sprinkle the cheese over the chili, and stir to cover evenly. Let stand 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Then, cover it with a lid to melt the cheese faster. Tip: I like to use a block of cheddar cheese and shred it just before adding it to the chili mac. Freshly shredded cheese melts faster and I think has a better flavor to the dish.
Serve with optional sour cream or light sour cream, and chopped cilantro.
Notes
Nutrition info is calculated using the lightened-up substitutions for this recipe.Per Serving: (1 heaping cup) Calories: 306 Calories from fat: 46 Fat: 5g Saturated Fat: 2g Cholesterol: 39mg Sodium: 377mg Carbohydrates: 41g Fiber: 10g Sugar: 4g Protein: 27 WW SmartPoints: 8