why make this recipe
Turkey Pumpkin Chili is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort, especially on chilly days. It is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrition. Ground turkey is a lean protein, while pumpkin adds fiber and vitamins. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, family meals, or meal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
how to make Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
how to serve Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Turkey Pumpkin Chili is best served hot. You can enjoy it in bowls and top it off with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair it with warm bread or cornbread for a complete meal. It’s also great with tortilla chips for dipping!
how to store Turkey Pumpkin Chili
If you have leftovers, you can store Turkey Pumpkin Chili in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make Turkey Pumpkin Chili
- To add extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
- If you like a thicker chili, reduce the amount of chicken broth or let it simmer a little longer.
- Experiment with different beans, like kidney or pinto beans, for variety.
variation
For a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground turkey with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or add more beans and vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Turkey Pumpkin Chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the turkey and sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Is this chili spicy?
A: The spice level can vary based on the chili powder you use. If you prefer it milder, use a mild chili powder and adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or corn. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Equipment
- large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned, drained
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground turkey over medium heat; drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add the rinsed kidney beans and corn; cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
