Kicked Up Turkey Mac and Cheese

It’s time to elevate your mac and cheese game with our Kicked Up Turkey Mac and Cheese! This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, featuring lean ground turkey, creamy pepper jack cheese sauce, and a kick of zesty enchilada flavor. Cook up whole wheat pasta until al dente, then brown the turkey to savory perfection. Whip up a luscious cheese sauce with half and half and enchilada sauce, then toss everything together with tender broccoli. It’s a cheesy, creamy, and satisfying dish that’ll have your taste buds dancing with each delightful bite! Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner feast.

Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 20 min

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground lean ground turkey
  • Steam in bag broccoli, cooked to package directions
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
  • ¾ cup enchilada sauce (red or green)
  • 1/2 lb whole wheat shaped pasta

Directions:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, cook pasta to package directions. 

While pasta cooks, in a large saute pan over medium-high heat, add a little bit of olive oil. Add in the ground turkey and season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking the turkey up as you go until it is cooked through and well browned. Drain off excess fat and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, heat the half and half and enchilada sauce over medium heat (don’t walk away, this can bubble over quickly). When it comes to a simmer, start SLOWLY whisking in the cheese, once all the cheese is incorporated, season with salt and pepper. Pour the turkey, steamed broccoli and cheese sauce into your pasta. Toss everything together and serve. 

Other Ways To Prepare This Meal:

Plant-based: Substitute turkey for black beans. Use vegan cheese shreds instead of pepper jack. Use 2 cups non-dairy milk and 2 tbsp cornstarch instead of half and half.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free or bean based pasta.

Kid-friendly: Leave out the enchilada sauce if they don’t love spice. Use their favorite veggie if they don’t love broccoli.