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let’s make something Naughty

Grandma's Chili (made healthy)

make me

Ingredients 

Serving Size: 6-8 servings

  • 2 pounds ground turkey (93/7)

  • 1 white onion, diced

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 ½ tablespoons chili powder, divided (adjust to taste)

  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin, divided

  • 2 teaspoons salt, divided (adjust to taste)

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

  • 1 (19 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 7 oz corn kernels (about half a can)

  • 2½ cups beef broth

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions 

  1. Season the meat: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey with 1½ tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well to coat.

  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned beef along with the onion, jalapeño, and garlic until the beef is browned and the veggies are softened, about 7-8 minutes.

  3. Add everything else: Stir in the remaining chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, plus smoked paprika, cinnamon, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, beef broth, tomato paste, and light brown sugar.

  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for an hour to an hour and a half. Keeping it uncovered allows it to thicken to a nice consistency.

  5. Final seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper or other seasonings as needed.

  6. Serve hot with toppings like:

  • Shredded cheddar

  • Chopped green onions

  • Fresh cilantro

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (I used greek yogurt!)

  • Crushed tortilla chips

Ok I know it’s summer, but it’s pouring rain in Miami and that calls for a big bowl of my Grandma's chili. This recipe takes the soul-soothing, belly-warming chili you grew up with and gives it a light refresh—without sacrificing any of that rich, hearty flavor. We’re talking ground turkey, lots of hearty veggies, tons of spices, and all the cozy vibes of a long-simmered pot of love. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry group of friends (me), this healthier twist on a classic will hit the spot every single time.

NotSoNaughty, healthy, chili, turkey, MainSqueeze

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