Easy Cheesy Turkey Macaroni
Creamy, rich, and irresistibly cheesy, Easy Cheesy Turkey Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food with a hearty twist. This quick and satisfying one-pan recipe pairs tender elbow macaroni with perfectly seasoned ground turkey, all smothered in a luscious cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce. Sautéed onions and garlic add depth of flavor, while a hint of paprika offers a subtle, smoky kick. Ready in just 35 minutes, this kid-friendly weeknight dinner is easy to prepare and generously serves six. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve piping hot for a meal that’s sure to please the entire family! Perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome and flavorful twist on classic macaroni and cheese.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground turkey until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to create a smooth paste.
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken.
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the cooked macaroni and cooked ground turkey to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to warm through.
Serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy your Easy Cheesy Turkey Macaroni!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
617 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.0 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.1 g | 81% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 126 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 784 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 51.6 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.6 g | ||
| Protein | 38.7 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 514 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 213 mg | 5% | |
*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.
