Turkey Ground Mac and cheese 🧀
Indulge in this creamy Turkey Ground Mac and Cheese with a cheesy, savory twist! Perfectly cooked turkey, rich cheese sauce, and a hint of Ragu for that extra flavor boost. Comfort food goals! 🍽️✨
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Turkey Ground Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups cavatappi macaroni
- 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Carnation evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula. Once cooked, remove excess fat and set aside.
- Season the turkey with your choice of seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper are great options). Once cooked through, stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of Ragu sauce (or your preferred marinara sauce) and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux (a thick paste). Gradually whisk in the Carnation evaporated milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the Colby, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until smooth. Add the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until fully melted. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Turkey, Pasta, and Sauce:
- Add the cooked ground turkey to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture, tossing everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk (or more heavy cream) to reach your desired consistency.
5. Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350F. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve and enjoy your rich and creamy Turkey Ground Mac and Cheese!
Turkey Ground Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese dish. This comfort food is made with lean ground turkey, which adds protein and flavor, making it suitable for family meals or cozy gatherings. To elevate the dish, consider using a variety of cheeses such as Colby, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar, which contribute to a rich and creamy texture. Additionally, incorporating spices like smoked paprika can enhance the overall flavor profile. For those looking to add more nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables such as spinach or broccoli, which not only introduce color but also increase the meal's health benefits. Using whole-grain pasta is another method to make this recipe more wholesome. Serving suggestions can include a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. This dish is versatile; it can be baked for a golden crisp topping or prepared as a stovetop one-pan meal for convenience. With its comforting flavors and textures, this Turkey Ground Mac and Cheese is sure to become a family favorite.