For a richer flavor, consider using smoked paprika in the spice blend. Feel free to add other leftover vegetables, such as corn or green beans, to the chili. Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced red onion.
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a hearty and comforting Turkey Chili Mac! This recipe is designed to be both incredibly delicious and refreshingly different from the original feast, offering a delightful twist with minimal effort.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent (about 5 minutes).
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, black pepper, cocoa powder, ground chipotle, oregano, and cinnamon. Add this spice mixture and minced garlic to the pot with the onions. Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and tomato sauce. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the coarsely chopped leftover turkey to the pot. If needed, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 15 minutes.
Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the rinsed and drained pinto beans and elbow macaroni. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook until the pasta is just barely tender (about 5 minutes).
Turn off the heat and remove the lid. Stir the mixture well. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the pasta to fully absorb the flavors and reach the perfect texture. Uncover the pot, stir in the grated white Cheddar cheese, and serve immediately.
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked paprika in the spice blend. Feel free to add other leftover vegetables, such as corn or green beans, to the chili. Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced red onion.
Mathias Okon
Jul 1, 2025I'm not a big fan of leftovers, but this actually made me excited to have turkey again.
Aryanna Lynch
Jun 11, 2025I found that adding a bit of brown sugar balanced the spices really well.
Torrance Koelpin
May 13, 2025Doubled the recipe and it was gone in minutes!
Yazmin Ward
Apr 26, 2025This is my go-to recipe for a quick and easy weeknight meal now. Thanks!
Jorge Brekke
Mar 30, 2025This was a lifesaver after Thanksgiving! So easy and a great way to use up leftovers.
Daphnee Kub
Mar 30, 2025I didn't have chipotle pepper, so I used a pinch of cayenne. It worked perfectly!
Nellie Koepp
Mar 18, 2025I added some corn to mine and it was fantastic!
Adrian Gottlieb
Mar 13, 2025My family loved this! It's a new tradition.