Turkey Pumpkin Chili
This Turkey Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate fall comfort meal — hearty, flavorful, and packed with lean protein and seasonal goodness. The pumpkin puree adds a creamy texture and natural sweetness that balances the savory spices and ground turkey. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd during chilly evenings.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup pumpkin puree unsweetened
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 can tomato sauce 8 oz
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon optional, for warmth
- Salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 tbsp lime juice to brighten flavor
- 1 chipotle chili in adobo finely chopped (for heat)
Optional Toppings:
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened — about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
Brown the Turkey
- Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
Add Pumpkin and Tomatoes
- Stir in pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Mix well to combine — this forms the base of your chili and adds creaminess.
Add Beans, Broth, and Spices
- Pour in black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Simmer
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors blend and the chili thickens.
Adjust and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add lime juice or chipotle for extra depth if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.
Notes
Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Add a touch of maple syrup or honey for subtle sweetness if you prefer.
Simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
Store leftovers for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer — the flavor gets even better over time!
Nutrition
Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 28gFat: 10gSodium: 480mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6g
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