Imagine a dish that combines the hearty satisfaction of classic comfort food with a healthier twist - that's exactly what this Macaroni and Beef Turkey recipe delivers! Perfect for busy families and home cooks looking for a quick, delicious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish that's both nutritious and incredibly tasty!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the cooked turkey and onions. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and gently mix with the turkey and tomato sauce until well combined.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture and cover the skillet. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set and flavors to further develop.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still provides rich flavor and protein.
- Always cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when mixing with the sauce.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil to the turkey mixture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting and more authentic taste.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- If you want to add more vegetables, try mixing in some diced bell peppers or frozen peas during the cooking process.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning the turkey.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
