One-Pot Turkey Chili Mac is the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re craving something cheesy, hearty, and satisfying—but don’t want a sink full of dishes. With tender ground turkey, elbow macaroni, bold spices, beans, and plenty of melty cheese, this meal comes together quickly in the Instant Pot. It’s comforting, protein-packed, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal mess and maximum flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥄 One-pot ease – Everything cooks in a single pot (Instant Pot or Dutch oven)
- ⏱️ Quick cook time – Ready in 30–35 minutes from start to finish
- 🧀 Cheesy, creamy finish – The final touch of half & half and cheese makes it irresistible
- 👨👩👧 Kid-approved – Mild chili flavor + pasta = guaranteed smiles
- 🔄 Flexible ingredients – Easily customize with different proteins, pasta, or spice levels
- 🧼 Easy cleanup – Minimal dishes, maximum reward
Ingredients
For the base:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 4 oz canned green chiles
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp dried marjoram
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 (15 oz) can beans (kidney, black, or pinto), drained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- ~3.5–4 cups chicken broth (enough to cover pasta)
To finish:
- ½ cup half & half (or whole milk)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Toppings (optional):
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Pickled jalapeños
- Extra shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Sauté the Pancetta & Turkey
Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil, then pancetta and ground turkey. Cook until browned. Remove and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics & Spices
In the same pot, add onion and green chiles. Cook until soft. Stir in chili powder, paprika, marjoram, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. - Combine & Layer
Return browned meat to the pot. Add beans. Spread tomato paste, sauce, and diced tomatoes on top without stirring. Add elbow macaroni. Pour broth until just covered. - Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release the pressure after cooking. - Finish with Dairy
Stir everything together. Add half & half and shredded cheese. Mix until creamy and fully melted. - Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, and herbs as desired.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–35 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: ~550–600
- Protein: ~30–35g
- Fat: ~18–22g
- Carbohydrates: ~45–50g
- Sodium: ~600mg
Tips & Variations
- No pancetta? Use bacon or skip it for a leaner version.
- Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
- Vegetarian version? Use meatless crumbles and veggie broth.
- Spice it up – Add a diced jalapeño or chipotle peppers for more heat.
- Leftovers? Wrap them in a tortilla for chili mac burritos.
FAQs
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Use a Dutch oven and simmer the pasta in broth after sautéing the meat and veggies.
Can I freeze One-Pot Turkey Chili Mac?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What’s the best cheese for this?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work best for melting and flavor.
One-Pot Turkey Chili Mac
Equipment
- – Instant Pot
- – Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- **Main Ingredients**
- – 1 tbsp olive oil
- – 4 oz pancetta diced
- – 1 lb ground turkey
- – ½ medium onion chopped
- – 4 oz green chiles
- – 1 tbsp chili powder
- – 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- – 2 tsp dried marjoram
- – 2 tsp dried oregano
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp salt
- – 1 15 oz can beans
- – 1 tbsp tomato paste
- – 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- – 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- – 8 oz elbow macaroni
- – ~4 cups chicken broth
- **To Finish**
- – ½ cup half & half
- – 2 cups shredded cheese
- **Optional Toppings**
- – Sour cream green onions, jalapeños, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté pancetta and turkey until browned. Set aside.
- Sauté onion and chiles. Add spices.
- Return meat. Layer in beans, tomato products, pasta, and broth. Do not stir.
- Pressure cook for 4 minutes. Quick release.
- Stir in half & half and cheese. Mix until creamy.
- Serve with toppings.
Notes
– Can be frozen up to 3 months
– Dairy-free alternatives work too
Conclusion
Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a last-minute family dinner, One-Pot Turkey Chili Mac hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and fast. It’s a complete meal that keeps everyone full and happy, and the best part? Just one pot to wash. Try it tonight and thank yourself later.