Pumpkin Chili Turkey | 7 Cozy Secrets for Fall Comfort
Pumpkin Chili Recipe Turkey is the kind of dish that feels like fall in a bowl. The first time I made it, the kitchen filled with the scent of garlic, onion, smoky paprika, and pumpkin simmering together. It reminded me of chilly autumn nights when comfort food brings everyone closer to the table. The flavor is hearty yet balanced with the creamy texture of pumpkin and the lean taste of turkey. If you love Pumpkin Main Dish Recipes that are both cozy and easy, this chili will become your new seasonal favorite.
Pumpkin Chili Recipe Turkey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, black beans, cannellini beans, and chicken broth.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, or pumpkin seeds.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love this pumpkin chili turkey
Pumpkin Chili Turkey is flavorful, nourishing, and perfect for weeknight dinners or Fall Potluck Recipes. The pumpkin puree gives the chili a silky texture that balances the spice, while beans and ground turkey make it filling. This is one of the most versatile Easy Pumpkin Chili Dinner ideas because it works for meal prep, family meals, and gatherings. If you have been looking for Easy Turkey Pumpkin Chili that is simple to freeze and reheat, this one delivers every time.
Ingredients for the perfect chili pumpkin dish
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes and Substitutions |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Avocado oil works too |
| Ground turkey | 1 lb | Can swap with ground chicken |
| Onion | 1 large | Yellow or white onion works |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Fresh garlic gives best flavor |
| Pumpkin puree | 1 (15 oz) can | Use fresh pumpkin for Pumpkin Chilli |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (28 oz) can | Fire-roasted tomatoes add smokiness |
| Black beans | 1 (15 oz) can | Omit for Pumpkin Chili No Beans |
| Cannellini beans | 1 (15 oz) can | Great Northern beans also work |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Vegetable broth for vegetarian option |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | Adjust for heat preference |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | Brings earthy flavor |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp | Regular paprika can substitute |
| Dried oregano | ½ tsp | Adds savory depth |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ tsp | Optional for extra spice |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Balance is key |
How to make pumpkin chilli step by step
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ladle Chili Pumpkin into bowls and serve with sour cream, cheese, cilantro, or pumpkin seeds.
How to serve easy pumpkin chili dinner
- Pair with cornbread or pumpkin biscuits for a hearty meal.
- Serve in bread bowls for a fun presentation.
- Offer toppings like avocado, lime wedges, or tortilla chips.
- At gatherings, make a chili bar for Fall Potluck Recipes where guests can add their favorite toppings.
Pro tips for the best pumpkin chili recipe turkey
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smoky flavor.
- Roast fresh pumpkin for richer taste if you want Pumpkin Recipes With Fresh Pumpkin.
- If you want Pumpkin Chili No Beans, add more turkey or vegetables.
- Let the chili rest for 10 minutes after simmering to deepen the flavor.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree.
- Do not skip browning the turkey because it builds flavor.
- Avoid under-seasoning since pumpkin needs spice and salt.
- Do not rush the simmering process because the flavor improves with time.
Storage and reheating instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 4 days.
- Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make pumpkin chili turkey in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the turkey and onions first then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
What if I want pumpkin chili no beans? You can omit the beans and double the turkey or add zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.
Does chili pumpkin taste sweet? The pumpkin adds mild sweetness and creaminess but the spices balance it for a savory finish.
Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, skip the turkey and add extra beans or lentils with vegetable broth.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Chili Recipe Turkey is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for autumn meals. Whether you need Pumpkin Main Dish Recipes for a weeknight dinner or Pumpkin Chilli for Fall Potluck Recipes, this easy dish always satisfies. Save this recipe and enjoy Easy Turkey Pumpkin Chili whenever the season calls for warmth and comfort.
