Easy Chili Mac and Cheese

When comfort food calls, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm bowl of easy chili mac and cheese. This recipe combines the hearty flavors of chili spiced ground turkey, beans, and tomatoes with the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese. The best part? It all comes together in one pot in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something fast, filling, and absolutely delicious.

This dish is not only crowd-pleasing but also versatile. You can keep it light with lean ground turkey or make it vegetarian by swapping in extra beans. Either way, every bite is packed with flavor, protein, and just the right amount of cozy spice.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful one-pot meal:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 pound extra-lean ground turkey (or swap with another can of beans for a vegetarian version)
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
1 tablespoon chili powder plus 1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilis, undrained
2 cups uncooked whole wheat elbow macaroni noodles (about 8 ounces)
1 cup freshly shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for serving
Sliced green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

2. Cook the Meat & Spices

Add the ground turkey, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook while stirring, breaking apart the turkey with a spoon, until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the Base Ingredients

Stir in the chicken stock, black beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the uncooked macaroni noodles and stir to combine everything.

4. Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir halfway through to prevent sticking.

5. Make It Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Serve & Garnish

Dish into bowls and top with extra cheese and sliced green onions. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!

About the Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chili Mac and Cheese

One Pot Only – Less cleanup, more flavor.
Ready in 30 Minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights.
Protein-Packed – With turkey and beans, it’s both filling and nutritious.
Customizable – Swap proteins, add veggies, or adjust the spice level to your liking.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Omit the turkey and add another can of beans (pinto, chickpeas, or even lentils work great).
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color and nutrition.
Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar gives it a classic flavor, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a creamy, slightly spicy twist.
Spice Level: Use more jalapeño or add hot sauce if you like your chili mac with extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

This easy chili mac and cheese is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal. However, you can pair it with a crisp green salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, slightly undercook the pasta to avoid mushiness when reheating.
Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Insights

At about 504 calories per serving, this dish strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition. With 37 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber, it keeps you full and energized. The combination of beans, lean meat, and whole wheat pasta makes it a better-for-you comfort food you’ll feel good about serving.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, this easy chili mac and cheese recipe is the answer. With its bold spices, hearty beans, tender pasta, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back for seconds.

Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your own twists whether you make it vegetarian, spice it up, or load it with extra cheese, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. One thing’s for sure: once you make it, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients