If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect for chilly fall days, this pumpkin chili will hit the spot! It's savory, hearty and rich and it's made in one pot. This pumpkin chili is a delicious twist on traditional chili, with the addition of a slight sweetness from the pumpkin. This dish is packed with nutrients and so easy to make! It's the perfect option for a cozy dinner at home, a potluck, a dinner party or even as a make-ahead freezer meal or a meal prep. The best part is that you throw all of the ingredients in the pot and let it cook. Your home will smell amazing while it is cooking as well! If you love chili, be sure to also try out my tomato-free chili and white chicken chili.
Why You'll Love This Chili
It is hearty, cozy and packed with flavor!
This pumpkin chili is so easy to make.
This dish is easily customizable.
It is a twist on your typical chili recipe!
This meal is perfect for meal prep or freezer prep.
This recipe is kid-friendly!
Pumpkin chili is packed with nutrients.
Equipment Needed
All you need to make this pumpkin chili is a cutting board, knife, spoon and a pot. I love using my Staub Cast Iron.
Ingredients Needed
Ground Turkey: I used ground turkey in this recipe. Adding meat to this chili adds protein and flavor!
Canned Tomatoes: Tomatoes in chili add a vibrant, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the meat and beans.
Broth: Broth provides liquid to create a stew-like consistency. I used chicken broth, but feel free to use any type of broth you love!
Beans: Beans in chili add a hearty texture, protein, and fiber.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin in chili adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess.
Bell Pepper: Peppers in chili add a spicy, pungent flavor!
Onion: Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to this chili!
Spices: I used cinnamon, chili powder, garlic and salt in this chili. Feel free to experiment with spices too!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Chop peppers, onion and mince garlic.
Step 2: Add onion, meat and spices to oiled stock pot and cook over medium heat until browned.
Step 3: Stir in peppers. Add in broth, beans, canned tomatoes and pumpkin.
Step 4: Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes. Serve out of mini pumpkins if you want to make it super fun!
Storage
This pumpkin chili can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. This is a great dish for meal prepping. It also is the perfect make-ahead freezer meal to have on hand for long winter days.
Variations
Meat: I used ground turkey in this recipe, but feel free to use ground chicken or ground beef instead.
Spices: I used garlic, cinnamon and chili powder in this recipe. Feel free to get creative! Try adding cumin, paprika, onion powder, oregano, black pepper and more!
Vegetables: I used onion, pepper and beans in this recipe. Try adding celery, corn, squash, zucchini or green beans to switch it up!
How to Serve
This pumpkin chili tastes delicious served on its own as a meal! Feel free to top it with yogurt, cheese, or herbs! I love serving my pumpkin chili with cornbread or a side salad!
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, potluck, dinner party or meal prep!
Recipe FAQ
What does pumpkin chili taste like?
Pumpkin chili has a slightly sweet flavor from the pumpkin!
Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make this vegan or vegetarian, omit the meat.
Is pumpkin chili spicy?
This pumpkin chili uses chili powder for a slight kick.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the ground turkey for ground beef or ground chili instead.
What should I pair with this pumpkin chili?
I love pairing my chili with a side salad or cornbread!
Does this work in an Instant Pot?
I have not yet tried this recipe in an Instant Pot, but I definitely think it would work!
What do people put in chili?
This chili is made with delicious flavors of tomato, pumpkin and veggies!
What is the secret to really good chili?
Spices for flavor!
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these dinner ideas next:
Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
Gluten Free French Onion Soup with Chicken
Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole
If you make this pumpkin chili and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.
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Pumpkin Chili
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 pot
- 1 spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 sweet onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 carton broth
- 2 cans beans or chickpeas
- 1 can pumpkin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or use fresh garlic)
- dash salt
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Chop peppers and onion and mince garlic.
- Add onion, meat and spices to oiled stock pot and cook over medium heat until browned.
- Stir in peppers. Add in broth, beans, canned tomatoes and pumpkin.
- Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes. Serve out of mini pumpkins if you want to make it super fun!
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