Turkey Chili Macaroni

Transform weeknight dinners with this hearty and flavorful Turkey Chili Macaroni recipe—a one-pot wonder that combines the bold spices of a classic chili with the creamy comfort of cheesy macaroni. Featuring lean ground turkey, tender elbow pasta, and a medley of nutritious ingredients like kidney beans, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes, this dish delivers big flavor in just 45 minutes. Seasoned with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano, then finished with a melty layer of cheddar cheese, it’s an irresistible blend of spice and savory goodness. Perfect for busy families, this recipe not only saves time but also satisfies cravings for a wholesome, comforting meal that serves six. Serve it piping hot with a garnish of fresh green onions for an extra pop of color and crunch!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
• 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3

Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper, coating the meat and vegetables evenly in the spices.

Step 5

Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 6

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), kidney beans, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.

Step 8

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Turkey Chili Macaroni!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2921.5 grams (2921.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2850

Total Fat 104.10g	133%
Saturated Fat 40.10g	201%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 443mg	148%
Sodium 6464mg	281%
Total Carbohydrate 294.80g	107%
Dietary Fiber 43.80g	156%
Total Sugars 30.40g
Protein 188.60g	377%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1216mg	94%
Iron 27mg	147%
Potassium 3974mg	85%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.6%

Protein: 26.3%

Carbs: 41.1%