Southwest Mac & Cheese
Flavorful, healthy stovetop meal made with Southwest spices, turkey (or ground beef), macaroni noodles, tomatoes, and cheese.
Servings 6
Calories 409kcal
Equipment
- Large pot, large skillet or pan
Ingredients
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 lb. turkey (or lean ground beef) (beef will affect total calories)
- 3 cubes beef bullion (only if using turkey)
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 1/2 cup green pepper chopped
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (8oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chilis (your choice of spiciness)
- 1 cup reduced fat cheddar cheese (or Mexican Blend cheese) shredded
- 1 bag Tostito chips and extra grated cheese for serving
Instructions
- Spray a large pan or skillet with nonstick cooking spray or use a little oil if your pan requires it. Over medium heat, brown turkey (or ground beef) for a few minutes just until not pink, breaking apart. If using turkey, add the bullion cubes also and break up to distribute throughout the turkey. Add in onion and green pepper and cook for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Sprinkle on chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir well to mix into meat.
- Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, Rotel and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Bring 3 quarts of water (salted, if desired) to boil in a large pot and cook macaroni noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
- Add the macaroni to the meat sauce mixture and stir together. Add 1 cup of cheese and stir to combine. Heat until bubbly. Serve
- Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of more cheese before serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips and extra cheese for those who desire it.