Some nights, you just need a meal that feels comforting without completely throwing off your health goals, and that’s exactly where this Creamy Ranch Turkey Mac comes in. It’s cozy, creamy, and full of flavor, but still lightened up with lean ground turkey, Laughing Cow cheese, and just the right amount of pasta to make it satisfying. This is one of those recipes that proves you don’t have to give up the foods you love to eat in a way that supports your goals.
I originally started making this dish on busy weeknights when I wanted something my whole family would eat without complaints (because who doesn’t love ranch and mac and cheese?). It quickly became a staple because it checks all the boxes: quick, high in protein, picky-eater approved, and even meal-prep friendly. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping lunches for the week, or just want a big bowl of comfort after a long day, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Creamy Ranch Turkey Mac
Equipment
- 1 Medium pot
- 1 Cutting board + knife
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean ground turkey (93/7)
- 1/2 box (~6 oz.) elbow macaroni
- 1 cup Diced, multi-colored bell peppers
- 4 wedges Light Laughing Cow cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup Pasta water, reserved
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and mix well.
- Reduce heat to low and add the Laughing Cow cheese wedges. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until fully coated in the creamy ranch sauce.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Make it spicy with a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
