Cozy Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans for Autumn Nights

Picture a chilly autumn evening, the kind that makes you want to curl up under a cozy blanket with a steaming bowl of comfort. Enter Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans, the warm hug your taste buds have been craving. This dish is not only a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors. The moment you take your first spoonful, you’ll be enveloped in the rich aroma of spices mingling with the sweet notes of pumpkin, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate.

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable Friendsgiving last fall when I made this chili for the first time. My friends couldn’t stop showering me with compliments—it was like I had discovered the secret to life itself! The laughter and joy around the table were infectious; it felt like every spoonful carried our stories and memories. Trust me, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than sharing this mouthwatering dish with loved ones on a cozy evening.

I remember my cousin trying it for the first time and declaring he’d never eat regular chili again—it was that good!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Turkey: A lean protein that adds heartiness to your chili without overwhelming flavors.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree for richness; avoid spiced blends to control flavor.
• Black Beans: These add fiber and a lovely texture, making every bite satisfying.
• Kidney Beans: Their slightly sweet flavor complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes: Look for fire-roasted varieties for extra depth in flavor.
• Onions: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully and bring out their natural sugars.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch; minced or chopped works well.
• Chili Powder: A robust blend will elevate your chili’s heat level—adjust according to preference!
• Cumin: This spice brings an earthy warmth that balances the sweetness of pumpkin.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding moisture.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing vegetables, choose high-quality olive oil for richer flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional): For garnish; adds creaminess and cuts through spiciness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans

Sauté the Vegetables : Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Ground Turkey : Toss in ground turkey next, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. The turkey should be no longer pink.

Spice It Up : Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—and watch those spices release their glorious aromas.

Add Remaining Ingredients : Pour in canned pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Mix everything together until well combined.

Simmer It Down : Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally—this step allows flavors to meld beautifully!

Taste Test & Serve : Before serving, taste your chili and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle into bowls topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired—and enjoy!

This Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans will not only warm your insides but also provide you with delightful leftovers perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the turkey beans before adding spices, veggies, and pumpkin puree to build flavors efficiently. This order helps create a rich base while ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the turkey for chicken or add black beans for extra texture. Spice lovers can throw in jalapeños or cayenne for an extra kick, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.

Cooking this pumpkin chili reminds me of my first attempt at dinner parties; I had friends raving about how unique and comforting it was!

FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree saves time and delivers great flavor without the fuss.

How spicy is this pumpkin chili with turkey beans?

The spice level varies based on your choice of peppers; adjust accordingly to suit your taste.

What can I serve with pumpkin chili?

Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Chili with Turkey Beans is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines lean ground turkey with sweet pumpkin and a medley of colorful beans, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Richly spiced and visually appealing, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Each bowl is a warm hug, making it an ideal choice for sharing with loved ones.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onions and bell peppers; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Add ground turkey to the pot; cook until browned (7-10 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
4. Add pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth; mix well.
5. Bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg