When the weather turns crisp, nothing warms the soul like a hearty bowl of Pumpkin Turkey Chili. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with fall goodness. The pumpkin adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory turkey and spices. This chili is the perfect balance of comfort food and seasonal flair, making it a go-to dish for chilly nights and holiday gatherings.
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The Story Behind My Pumpkin Turkey Chili
The first time I made Pumpkin Turkey Chili, it was a few days after Thanksgiving. We had leftover pumpkin purée and some ground turkey in the fridge, and Elizabeth suggested we turn it into something warm and filling. I simmered the turkey with onions, garlic, beans, and spices, then stirred in pumpkin purée. The smell alone was incredible—savory, a little sweet, and so cozy.
Emily loved that it was “pumpkin in a bowl,” Marek asked for seconds with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top, and Elizabeth said it reminded her of rustic fall stews from her childhood in Greece. From then on, it became a fall tradition, something we look forward to every year once pumpkins appear at the market.
A Chili with a Fall Twist
Creamy pumpkin makes this chili both hearty and unique, with a comforting autumn flavor.
A Weeknight-Friendly Meal
Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Turkey Chili
This Pumpkin Turkey Chili comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips
Emily likes hers with extra tortilla chips for dipping, Marek insists the smoked paprika gives it depth, and Elizabeth swears the hint of cinnamon ties it all together.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili
- Use pure pumpkin: Be sure to use plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.
- Brown the turkey well: Take time to sauté the turkey until golden—it builds flavor at the base of the chili.
- Layer spices early: Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika with the onions and garlic to toast them and release their aroma.
- Simmer gently: Once everything is combined, let the chili simmer for at least 25–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust thickness: Add more broth if you like a thinner chili, or simmer longer for a thicker, heartier texture.
With these ingredients and tips, your Pumpkin Turkey Chili will be a fall favorite that’s both nourishing and flavorful.
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Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe: Hearty and Cozy Fall Dinner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a hearty, flavorful fall dish made with ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and pumpkin purée. Creamy, cozy, and perfect for weeknights or seasonal gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add pumpkin purée, diced tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in lime juice before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Use plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or coconut milk. This chili can be made ahead, refrigerated for 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Turkey Chili, fall chili recipe, healthy turkey chili, cozy pumpkin dinner
Serving Pumpkin Turkey Chili
This Pumpkin Turkey Chili is hearty enough to be the star of the meal, but it shines even brighter with the right toppings and sides.
Serving Ideas
Serve hot in large bowls with your favorite garnishes—shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or tortilla chips. Cornbread or crusty bread makes the perfect companion for soaking up the flavorful broth.
For a casual family dinner, set up a chili bar with toppings in small bowls so everyone can customize their bowl. Emily always piles hers high with cheese, Marek adds jalapeños for spice, and Elizabeth likes a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
For gatherings, keep the chili warm in a slow cooker and let guests serve themselves. It’s filling, comforting, and festive enough for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any fall celebration.
Flavor Variations
The beauty of Pumpkin Turkey Chili is how flexible it is. Try these easy variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, chipotle in adobo, or extra chili powder.
- Sweet and Savory: Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for balance.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the turkey and add extra beans, corn, and zucchini.
- Creamy Chili: Stir in cream cheese or coconut milk for a silky texture.
- Turkey Swap: Ground chicken or even shredded leftover turkey works just as well.
These variations make it easy to enjoy Pumpkin Turkey Chili all season long without it ever feeling repetitive.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage for Pumpkin Turkey Chili
One of the best things about Pumpkin Turkey Chili is how well it keeps, making it a great option for meal prep or holiday planning.
Preparing Ahead of Time
You can cook the chili completely 1–2 days before serving. In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. Simply store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.
For busy weeknights, prep the vegetables and measure out the spices ahead of time. You can even brown the turkey in advance and store it separately. When it’s time to cook, just combine everything in the pot and simmer.
For parties, prepare the chili earlier in the day and keep it warm in a slow cooker. Guests can serve themselves, and the chili stays hot and flavorful throughout the evening.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pumpkin Turkey Chili keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
This chili also freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened.
With these tips, you can always have a hearty bowl of Pumpkin Turkey Chili ready to warm you up on a chilly fall evening.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Turkey Chili
Does the chili taste like pumpkin?
Not strongly. The pumpkin purée adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, but it doesn’t overpower the savory flavors of the turkey, beans, and spices.
Can I make Pumpkin Turkey Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the turkey and sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely. Roast and mash fresh pumpkin, then use it in place of canned purée. Make sure it’s well blended for a creamy consistency.
Is Pumpkin Turkey Chili freezer-friendly?
Yes. It freezes very well. Store cooled chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a little broth if needed.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Turkey Chili is more than just a fall recipe—it’s a bowl of comfort that brings together the best of the season. The creamy pumpkin, hearty beans, and savory turkey create a dish that’s flavorful, nourishing, and perfect for cold nights.
In our home, this chili has become a seasonal favorite. Emily loves topping hers with tortilla chips and cheese, Marek always squeezes in extra lime for brightness, and Elizabeth insists the hint of cinnamon makes it special. For me, it’s about more than just dinner—it’s about gathering around the table and enjoying a cozy moment together.
The best part is how flexible this recipe is. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, vegetarian, or classic, Pumpkin Turkey Chili adapts to fit your taste and your schedule. It’s easy to make ahead, simple to freeze, and always a crowd-pleaser.
So grab a can of pumpkin, a pound of turkey, and a few pantry staples, and let this chili become part of your fall traditions. Each spoonful is like a taste of autumn in a bowl.
👉 I hope you loved digging into this Pumpkin Turkey Chili—it’s hearty, protein-packed, and full of cozy fall flavors with a hint of sweetness from the pumpkin. Perfect for game day, meal prep, or warming up on a crisp autumn night. 🍂
Want more cozy bowls of comfort? Try our Tex-Mex Ground Beef Potato Skillet—it’s bold, filling, and weeknight-friendly. Or pair your chili with some freshly baked Homemade Angel Biscuits—soft, buttery, and just right for soaking up every last bite.
Over at Cozy Family Recipes, you’ll love their Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup—a comforting dish that’s every bit as hearty as chili.
And if you want another twist on cozy, spice-forward soups, SantMD’s Green Chili Chicken Soup is a delicious option with a creamy kick.
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