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Cozy Pumpkin Chili

Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 6 hearty bowls

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Can opener
  • Ladle for serving

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey or beef
  • 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cinnamon optional, but adds warmth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
  • Brown the meat: Add ground turkey or beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  • Add the pumpkin and spices: Stir in pumpkin puree, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
  • Add liquids and beans: Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and kidney beans. Stir everything together.
  • Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Taste and adjust: Give it a taste test and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Chili

  • Use real pumpkin puree: Make sure you’re not using pumpkin pie filling—it’s sweetened and spiced.
  • Simmer longer for richer flavor: Letting the chili simmer an extra 10–15 minutes deepens the taste.
  • Don’t skip the cinnamon: A small pinch adds that signature fall warmth without making it sweet.
  • Add a splash of lime: Right before serving, a little lime juice brightens up the entire pot.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add an extra can of beans or lentils.
  • Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for extra richness.
  • Different meats: Try ground chicken, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Sweet potato addition: Diced sweet potato adds texture and natural sweetness.

 

Keyword comfort food, Cozy, Healthy, Homemade