Turkey Chili Macaroni
A hearty, flavorful turkey chili mac with tender pasta, beans, and spices, perfect for satisfying family dinners and quick weeknight meals with a comforting, spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour oil into a large soup kettle and heat.
- Add ground turkey to the hot oil and stir until browned.
- Add chopped celery and onion; cook until vegetables are tender and turkey is no longer pink.
- Add chicken broth and cook covered until celery and onions are tender.
- Drain the mixture into a large bowl and set aside.
- Bring the reserved liquid to a boil again.
- Add the liquid from two cans of red kidney beans if desired.
- Add macaroni to the boiling liquid and cook until tender, adding additional liquid if necessary.
- When the macaroni is tender, add the turkey mixture, kidney beans, spaghetti sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and water.
- Heat thoroughly and serve. Can be frozen in containers for later.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider substituting ground turkey with ground beef or chicken. You can also enhance the spice by adding diced jalapeños or bell peppers. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. Leftover spaghetti sauce can be a good substitute for homemade, should you want a quicker option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Turkey Chili Macaroni with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Homemade Meat Loaf for a satisfying dinner option. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and garnish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and ensure they are tightly sealed. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Chili Macaroni contains roughly 648 calories, with 34g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1913mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this chili mac?
Absolutely! While red kidney beans are traditional, feel free to use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Each will add its unique flavor and texture, making the dish even more versatile and enjoyable.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking. You could also stir in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce just before serving, allowing each person to adjust the spice to their taste.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chili macaroni up to a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, cool it down, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).