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Sautéing the foundational ingredients of onions, garlic, and bell peppers is a crucial technique that sets the stage for your Cozy Turkey Chili Tortellini. Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions first, allowing them to soften and turn translucent, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential because it releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Tortellini

Warm up your mealtime with Cozy Turkey Chili Tortellini, a comforting dish that beautifully marries the hearty flavors of chili with the delicious texture of cheese tortellini. This easy-to-make recipe features lean ground turkey, nutrient-rich beans, and a vibrant medley of vegetables, creating a wholesome meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Discover how each ingredient adds depth and warmth, making every bowl a feel-good experience. Enjoy delicious flavors and lasting memories with every spoonful!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground turkey

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green for a pop of color)

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, with their juices

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup frozen corn

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Brown the Turkey: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground turkey. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's evenly browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

    Sauté the Vegetables: With the heat still on medium, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, along with the minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.

      Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned turkey and sautéed vegetables into the bowl of a slow cooker, ensuring all the flavorful bits from the skillet make it in.

        Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (along with their juices), chicken broth, frozen corn, and the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

          Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will help meld the flavors together and thicken the chili.

            Add Tortellini: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini into the chili mixture. Cover and continue to cook until the tortellini is tender, which should take about 20-30 minutes on high.

              Serve: Once the tortellini is cooked, ladle the cozy turkey chili tortellini into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and a sprinkling of shredded cheese for an extra creamy touch, if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 7 hours | Serves 6