Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese on a chilly evening. As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving cozy meals that not only fill me up but warm my heart. This dish has become a staple in my home, especially when I want to gather family and friends for a casual dinner. The combination of hearty turkey, creamy cheese, and wholesome whole wheat pasta is truly a flavor explosion that leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

One of my favorite memories associated with this recipe is the first time I made it for my friends during a fall gathering. The aroma of spices filled my kitchen, and soon enough, everyone was gathered around the table, chatting and laughing, eager to dig into this comforting delight. That evening sparked many more cooking sessions, where we’d experiment with different toppings like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes to kick things up a notch. The versatility of this dish is what makes it shine!

Every bite of this Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese is packed with flavor, thanks to the rich blend of spices and the creaminess of the cheese that melts seamlessly into the turkey and veggies. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrition without sacrificing taste, which is something we can all appreciate in our busy lives. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether for a weeknight meal or for a festive gathering, and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite.

Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in your cooking experience. For this Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese, you’ll be using a delightful mix of wholesome ingredients that not only taste great but work harmoniously together. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory turkey to the creamy cheese, ensuring a rich flavor profile that satisfies.

• 1 pound ground turkey: This lean meat serves as the hearty base of the dish, providing protein while keeping the dish lighter compared to traditional beef.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and turkey, olive oil adds healthy fats and a hint of flavor.
• 1 small onion: Chopped finely, onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 medium carrot: Diced carrots contribute a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
• 1 stalk celery: Celery adds crunch and a fresh taste, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• 1 medium green bell pepper: This adds a slight bitterness and freshness, complementing the other vegetables.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic brings a pungent flavor that rounds out the dish beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: This spice adds warmth and a slight kick, making the chili flavorful and aromatic.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Cumin enhances the earthiness of the chili, providing a smoky background note.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: This forms the saucy base of the chili, adding moisture and acidity.
• 2 cups canned kidney beans: Beans are a great plant-based protein source, adding texture and heartiness.
• 16 ounces colby-jack cheese: This cheesy blend melts wonderfully, creating that creamy goodness we all love.
• 8 ounces whole-wheat macaroni pasta: The whole-wheat pasta adds fiber and a nutty flavor, making it a healthier choice.
• 1 stalk green onion: Chopped green onions make a fresh garnish, adding a burst of color and mild onion flavor.

Recipe Directions for Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese

Making this delicious Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese is a satisfying experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow along with these steps for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

1. Start by heating a large pot (6-quart or larger) over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for a minute before adding in the ground turkey. Cook the turkey for about five minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial as it allows the turkey to brown slightly, enhancing the flavors.
2. Once the turkey is cooked, add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about five to ten minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and become fragrant, which will create a great flavor base for your chili.
3. Next, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Mix everything well to coat the vegetables and turkey in the spices. Let it cook for a minute to release the aromas, and then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about thirty minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This is a great time to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. After thirty minutes, stir in the rinsed kidney beans and continue simmering uncovered for another thirty minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check the consistency. You want it to be thick yet saucy.
6. While the chili is simmering, prepare the macaroni pasta according to the package directions. Boil it in a separate pot until al dente, then drain and set aside.
7. Once the chili is done, remove it from heat and stir in the cooked pasta and colby-jack cheese. The cheese will melt into the hot chili, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that binds everything together.
8. Serve the Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions or your favorite herbs. Enjoy this wholesome meal with your loved ones as you gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

Expert Tips about Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese

To make the most out of your Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese, here are some expert tips that will elevate your dish to the next level.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the chili.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Sour cream, cilantro, or avocado can enhance the flavors and add creaminess.
• Cooked Pasta: If preparing the dish ahead of time, consider cooking the macaroni separately and mixing it in just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What Goes Well With This Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese

• Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the chili mac.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting addition that everyone loves.
• Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add a nutritious element and bring a colorful touch to your meal.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for potlucks or family gatherings where everyone can help themselves to a hearty serving.
• Winter Comfort: Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings during the colder months, making it a seasonal favorite.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese stands out as a comforting and hearty meal that brings friends and family together. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about creating memories around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s not only simple to make but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. You’ll quickly find it becomes a cherished part of your meal rotation!

Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese combines hearty turkey, creamy cheese, and wholesome whole wheat pasta for a cozy, satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or gathering with friends, it's a flavor-packed meal that everyone will love. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Ground Turkey
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 small Onion
• 1 medium Carrot
• 1 stalk Celery
• 1 medium Green Bell Pepper
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 2 teaspoons Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 28 ounces Canned Crushed Tomatoes
• 2 cups Canned Kidney Beans
• 16 ounces Colby-Jack Cheese
• 8 ounces Whole-Wheat Macaroni Pasta
• 1 stalk Green Onion

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Start by heating a large pot (6-quart or larger) over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for a minute before adding in the ground turkey. Cook the turkey for about five minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's no longer pink. This step is crucial as it allows the turkey to brown slightly, enhancing the flavors.
2. Once the turkey is cooked, add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about five to ten minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and become fragrant, which will create a great flavor base for your chili.
3. Next, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Mix everything well to coat the vegetables and turkey in the spices. Let it cook for a minute to release the aromas, and then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about thirty minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This is a great time to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. After thirty minutes, stir in the rinsed kidney beans and continue simmering uncovered for another thirty minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check the consistency. You want it to be thick yet saucy.
6. While the chili is simmering, prepare the macaroni pasta according to the package directions. Boil it in a separate pot until al dente, then drain and set aside.
7. Once the chili is done, remove it from heat and stir in the cooked pasta and colby-jack cheese. The cheese will melt into the hot chili, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that binds everything together.
8. Serve the Whole Wheat Turkey Chili Mac and Cheese in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions or your favorite herbs. Enjoy this wholesome meal with your loved ones as you gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the chili.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Sour cream, cilantro, or avocado can enhance the flavors and add creaminess.
• Cooked Pasta: If preparing the dish ahead of time, consider cooking the macaroni separately and mixing it in just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

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Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.