Spicy Chili Mac Recipe
Family and friends love this recipe. I use three power foods: tomatoes, black beans, and olive oil, plus whole wheat pasta. It's comfort food to feel good about!
Family and friends love this recipe. I use three power foods: tomatoes, black beans, and olive oil, plus whole wheat pasta. It's comfort food to feel good about!
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans rinsed and drained
- 2 cups uncooked whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 2 to 3 jalapeno peppers seeded and chopped
- 1 to 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce
- 2 to 3 teaspoons chili powder
- Carbohydrate 2.26750965544872 g
- Cholesterol 59.7229953833333 mg
- Fat 6.73505718729744 g
- Fiber 0.400964511565673 g
- Protein 13.540753503859 g
- Saturated Fat 1.76957114703254 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (96g)
- Sodium 72.6026475820393 mg
- Sugar 1.86654514388304 g
- Trans Fat 0.718929155381187 g
- Calories 126 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, cook the turkey, onion, and jalapenos in oil over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain.
- Add the beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, pepper sauce, and seasonings. Drain macaroni; stir into turkey mixture.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes or until heated through.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Remove from the heat; cover and let stand until cheese is melted.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Spicy Chili Mac
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a real challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the general chaos that comes with juggling family life. That's why I rely on recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor – recipes that my whole family will actually enjoy. This Spicy Chili Mac recipe has become a staple in our household, a comforting dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. It's a perfect blend of spicy kick and hearty satisfaction, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's not fussy; it doesn't require a long list of obscure ingredients. The key is in the balance of flavors – the savory ground turkey, the sweetness of the tomatoes, the subtle heat of the jalapenos, and the creamy richness of the cheddar cheese. Everything works together beautifully to create a dish that's both satisfying and wholesome. I use whole wheat pasta to add some extra fiber, and I always make sure to use low-sodium ingredients to keep the sodium content in check. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference over time.
I remember the first time I made this recipe. My kids were hesitant at first, mostly because of the "spicy" part. However, once they took a bite, their expressions changed. There were smiles, happy groans, and even requests for seconds. It was a true family success. Since then, this recipe has become a regular feature on our dinner table. I often adapt it slightly depending on what vegetables I have on hand. Sometimes I add some chopped bell peppers or zucchini to boost the veggie content. The great thing is, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking, add other vegetables, or swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!
This Spicy Chili Mac is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of comfort and togetherness. It's a dish that brings my family together around the table, fostering conversation and creating lasting memories. It's the kind of food that warms both the body and the soul. It's the perfect embodiment of simple food, made with love and shared with loved ones. So, try it for yourself. It is a recipe that works and keeps on working!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier chili, add more jalapenos or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack or pepper jack would also be delicious.
- If you don't have whole wheat pasta on hand, regular pasta works just fine.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed corn for extra texture and sweetness.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or black beans.
- To make it a complete meal, serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
