Description
Pumpkin chili is a cozy, bold mashup that blends creamy pumpkin with classic chili ingredients for a deeply comforting, gut-friendly meal. Perfect for fall and easily customizable for any diet.
Ingredients
1 pound Ground beef or turkey
1 medium Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) Pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1 can (28 oz) Crushed tomatoes
1 can Kidney beans, drained
1 can Black beans, drained
1 tbsp Chili powder
2 tsp Cumin
½ tsp Cinnamon (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, crushed tomatoes, beans, and all your spices. Stir until well combined.
4. Let it simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust thickness by adding water or broth if needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings. Add a pinch more cinnamon if you’re feeling spicy.
6. Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado for extra indulgence.
Notes
Try lentils or jackfruit for a plant-based option.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes or add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for depth.
Freeze portions for easy weeknight dinners.
Serve over rice, fried rice, or as chili mac.
Top with lime crema, tortilla chips, or roasted peppers for added flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: pumpkin chili, fall recipes, comforting chili, easy chili