Chili Cheese Mac

Hamburger Helper was one of my favorite meals growing up. And since my parents didn't know anything about nutrition, we had it quite often! This is a healthy but still comforting version of that old favorite. It's also an easy clean up one-pot recipe!


Adapted from a recipe by Tessa the Domestic Diva.

Servings: 10
Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients: 

2 tsp vegetable oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/4 lb ground turkey or vegetarian substitute

4 T tomato paste or ketchup

1-14.5 oz can of petite diced tomatoes

1 qt low sodium vegetable broth

2 tsp oregano

1 T chili powder

1-16.25 oz box of whole wheat noodles

1 green pepper, diced

1 c sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or vegan Daiya shredded cheddar)

1 c spinach, chopped

Avocado, diced (for garnish)

 
Directions:
In a large pot over medium heat, saute the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and meat and raise the heat to medium-high. Cook until the meat is browned, 7-10 minutes.

Add the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, veg broth, oregano, and chili powder. Stir to combine and then add the noodles and green pepper, stirring again. Cover and bring to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is al dente, 8-10 minutes.

Remove from heat. Add the cheese and spinach. Stir to combine. Garnish with avocado.

This is a great way to get picky eaters to eat their veggies