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I've perfected this Turkey Chili recipe over many cold winter nights. It's become our family's comfort food favorite - hearty satisfying and packed with good-for-you ingredients. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot making cleanup a breeze.
Why You'll Fall in Love
This chili has everything going for it - healthy comforting and so adaptable. I love making a big batch on Sunday for easy meals all week. Whether you're hosting game day or need a quick dinner it never disappoints.
What You'll Need
- Ground Turkey: Makes it lean and healthy.
- Yellow Onion: Adds such nice flavor when chopped.
- Chili Powder: Can't have chili without it.
- Cumin & Garlic: Brings that smoky depth.
- Kidney Beans: Keep the liquid adds richness.
- Pinto Beans: Nice variety in texture.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: My secret for extra flavor.
- Tomato Paste: Makes everything rich and thick.
- Toppings: Whatever you love sour cream cheese fresh herbs.
Let's Cook Together
- Start With The Base
- Brown that turkey with onions and all our spices until everything's fragrant and the meat's no longer pink.
- Build The Flavors
- Add those beans tomatoes and paste watch it come together.
- Let It Simmer
- This is where the magic happens give it time to get thick and delicious.
- Time To Enjoy
- Ladle it up add your favorite toppings dive in while it's hot.
Keep It Fresh
Keeps beautifully in the fridge three days or freeze it up to six months. When you're ready to reheat just add a splash of water keeps it perfect.
Make It Your Way
I love how flexible this recipe is. Going meatless? Double up on beans or add quinoa. Sometimes I use ground chicken or beef when that's what I have. Play with the spices until it's just how you like it.
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Perfect Partners
Nothing beats this chili with warm cornbread on the side. We love it over baked potatoes or with crunchy tortilla chips. Sometimes I'll use it to top nachos game day style gets everyone excited.
My Best Tips
Want it thicker? Let it simmer uncovered at the end. Those fire-roasted tomatoes make such a difference in flavor. I love adding some roasted green chilies gives it a nice kick.
What Makes This Special
This chili hits that sweet spot between healthy and comforting. The lean turkey and beans keep it nutritious but it's still so satisfying. Plus everything in one pot means less cleanup more time enjoying.
Top It Off
The toppings make it extra special. A handful of melty cheddar dollop of sour cream some crunchy chips on top. Fresh green onions or ripe avocado adds that perfect finishing touch. Make it your own that's half the fun.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use ground beef instead?
- Yes, substitute lean ground beef for turkey. Drain well after cooking to remove excess fat.
- → Why not drain the beans?
- Bean liquid adds flavor and thickens chili. If preferred, drain and rinse beans but may need to add more liquid.
- → Can I make this in slow cooker?
- Cook meat and onions first, then combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook 4-6 hours on low.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- → How can I make it spicier?
- Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to taste.