There is something incredibly cozy and delightfully surprising about a warm bowl of Pumpkin Chili that makes it a standout in the world of comfort foods. This dish perfectly balances hearty, savory flavors with the subtle sweetness and creamy texture of pumpkin puree, providing a rich depth like you’ve never experienced in a classic chili before. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite or a crowd-pleaser for fall gatherings, Pumpkin Chili is a must-try recipe that brings warmth and nutrition to the table all in one pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Chili is simple yet essential, each adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully. From the robust spices to the creamy pumpkin, these staples keep the recipe both approachable and delicious.

1 pound ground turkey or beef: Choose your favorite protein to add depth and heartiness to the chili.
1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a savory base that’s impossible to skip.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant punch that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz): The star ingredient, smooth and subtly sweet, giving the chili its unique twist.
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Brings acidity and freshness to balance the creaminess of the pumpkin.
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a creamy texture and protein-packed goodness.
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Brings hearty, chewy bites that contrast beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Creates a rich, simmered base and keeps the chili perfectly saucy.
2 tablespoons chili powder: The quintessential chili spice that layers on warmth and complexity.
1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy depth that complements the pumpkin and tomatoes perfectly.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky note that makes every spoonful uniquely comforting.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together to perfection.

How to Make Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Start by cooking the ground turkey or beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding the diced onion and minced garlic. This mixture forms the savory foundation of your Pumpkin Chili, so be sure to cook until the meat is nicely browned and the onions are softened. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the chili balanced and not greasy.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

After browning your meat and aromatics, transfer everything to your crockpot. This is where the magic begins — add the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chicken or vegetable broth, and your perfectly measured spices: chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Give it a thorough stir to ensure every bite will be infused with those warm, hearty flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the pumpkin puree to integrate seamlessly with the chili, creating a silky, comforting texture that is so satisfying on a chilly day.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Just before serving, taste your Pumpkin Chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. This final seasoning step is crucial because it ties together all the flavors, making each spoonful burst with savory, slightly sweet warmth. Now your Pumpkin Chili is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chili

Garnishes

Enhance your Pumpkin Chili with garnishes like a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for richness, or fresh chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for a bright, fresh contrast. A squeeze of lime juice also works wonders by adding a tangy kick that elevates the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, serve your Pumpkin Chili with simple but satisfying sides like warm cornbread, crusty bread for dipping, or a vibrant green salad. The balance of a fresh side offers a nice contrast to the hearty, spiced chili, making the meal feel complete and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your Pumpkin Chili into a loaded chili bowl by topping it with crunchy tortilla chips, diced avocado, and jalapeño slices. Alternatively, scoop it onto baked potatoes or stuff it into bell peppers for a colorful, hearty presentation that’s sure to impress family or guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin Chili stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often develop even further overnight, making your leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.

Freezing

This chili freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect recipe for batch cooking. Portion your chili into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen Pumpkin Chili in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from fresh, microwave or stove-top warming works just fine. Add a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick while reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Chili without meat?

Absolutely! You can turn this Pumpkin Chili into a vegetarian or vegan delight by skipping the ground meat and adding extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini instead. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

Is canned pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, canned pumpkin puree is plain cooked pumpkin without added spices or sugar, which is perfect for savory dishes like Pumpkin Chili. Pumpkin pie filling contains spices and sweeteners and should be avoided in this recipe.

Can I adjust the spice level in Pumpkin Chili?

Definitely! If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili powder or omit any extra hot spices. For more heat, add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree makes a great substitute. They offer a similar creamy texture and subtle sweetness to your Pumpkin Chili.

Is Pumpkin Chili suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prepping! Prepare a big batch and portion it into containers for easy, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

There you have it — a cozy, flavorful recipe that turns classic chili into something truly special with the addition of pumpkin. Pumpkin Chili is one of those comforting dishes that warms your soul and tastes like home. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate seasonal flavors. Give it a try, and I promise, it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!