Name: “Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained & rinsed); 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained & rinsed); 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt & pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, optional); Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

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There is just something magical about inviting autumn flavors into your kitchen, and Pumpkin Turkey Chili is pure, cozy magic in a bowl. This vibrant, nourishing chili brings together lean turkey, creamy pumpkin purée, hearty beans, and a warming blend of spices that practically beg you to curl up on the couch with a big, steamy mug. Not only is this recipe a go-to for chilly weather, but it’s also a showstopper for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or game day gatherings. Pumpkin Turkey Chili will quickly become a favorite—its rich, earthy flavor and healthy twist set it apart from any other chili you’ve tried!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Pumpkin Turkey Chili is how simple yet transformative the ingredients are. Each plays a key role in building that classic chili comfort while adding unique flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each ingredient matters:

Olive Oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and gives a rich base flavor to the chili.
Onion: Sweet and savory, it forms the essential flavor foundation you build upon.
Garlic: Adds an incredible savory depth and a hint of nuttiness.
Ground Turkey: Lean and hearty, it soaks up the chili spices beautifully without weighing down the dish.
Red Bell Pepper: Brings a pop of color and a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Pumpkin Purée: The star ingredient, it gives a velvety texture and subtle earthy sweetness—don’t skip it!
Diced Tomatoes: Add tang and help create the saucy chili base we know and love.
Black Beans: Offer a creamy bite and boost the nutrition factor.
Kidney Beans: Their robust texture and flavor balance out the other beans.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Brings everything together, adding savory notes and perfect consistency.
Chili Powder: The essential chili kick—we wouldn’t call it chili without it!
Ground Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, it rounds out every spoonful.
Smoked Paprika: Provides a smoky undertone that sets this chili apart.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): Add for gentle heat, or leave it out if you prefer a milder chili.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that brighten and balance all the flavors.
Corn Kernels (optional): Sweet, crisp pops of flavor you’ll love if you add them in the last few minutes.
Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro—each brings a fun finish and extra flavor!

How to Make

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a big, sturdy pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it soften for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t brown too much. Once it’s fragrant and translucent, add the minced garlic and keep stirring for another minute—just until the kitchen smells absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Next, crumble in the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks, letting all the flavors mingle. After 6–7 minutes, the turkey will be browned and ready, which locks in that savory taste that chili lovers crave.

Step 3: Add Vegetables & Base

Now, pile in the chopped red bell pepper, your precious can of pumpkin purée, diced tomatoes (juice and all!), both kinds of beans, and the broth. Give everything a hearty stir. The mixture will look beautifully rustic—don’t be afraid to admire those pops of orange and red!

Step 4: Season

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a dash of cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Season everything with salt and pepper. Stir again to mix those bold spices evenly—this is where Pumpkin Turkey Chili starts to come alive.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, put a lid on the pot, and let it simmer away for 25–30 minutes. Stir it a couple of times to make sure nothing sticks. If you like corn, toss in the kernels during the final 5 minutes so they stay sweet and juicy. This gentle simmer is what brings out that glorious, unified flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle generous portions of Pumpkin Turkey Chili into bowls and invite everyone to top as they please—think shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro. It’s comfort food at its very best!

How to Serve

Garnishes

The right topping can turn a good bowl of chili into something unforgettable. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese while the chili is piping hot so it melts just right, or go for a dollop of tangy sour cream. Slices of avocado add creamy freshness, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro instantly brightens every spoonful. Don’t be afraid to let everyone customize their own bowls with their favorite toppings!

Side Dishes

Pumpkin Turkey Chili is hearty all on its own, but pairing it with simple side dishes makes dinner feel extra special. Think warm, crusty bread for dunking, a pan of classic cornbread, or even tortilla chips for a bit of crunch. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply so the chili can really shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel free to have some fun! Try serving Pumpkin Turkey Chili in small pumpkins (just hollow and roast them first) for an adorable, seasonal presentation. Ladle it over baked sweet potatoes for an even cozier meal, or scoop it into mugs for a fireside movie night. Don’t be surprised if your friends snap a photo or two before digging in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Pumpkin Turkey Chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will happily keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Plus, the flavors just get better as they meld together overnight, so leftovers are truly something to look forward to!

Freezing

This chili is a meal-prep dream! Spoon cooled Pumpkin Turkey Chili into freezer-safe containers or zip bags (flattened for faster thawing). It keeps fantastic flavor and texture for up to two months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers—you’ll want to find this one again!

Reheating

Reheating is easy and fuss-free. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it’s thickened a bit, and top again with your favorite garnishes.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked turkey instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Swap in leftover cooked turkey (like from Thanksgiving) for the ground turkey. Just chop or shred and stir it in after sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds even more flavor and is a great way to reduce food waste.

Is Pumpkin Turkey Chili spicy?

It’s mild as written, but you can turn up the heat! Add more cayenne pepper, toss in a chopped jalapeño, or offer hot sauce on the side for those who love extra spice.

Can I make Pumpkin Turkey Chili vegetarian?

Definitely. Simply skip the meat and add an extra can of beans or throw in quinoa for protein. Use vegetable broth and keep your toppings vegetarian-friendly for a satisfying, meatless version.

What kind of pumpkin purée should I use?

Use pure canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling (which is sweet and spiced). You can also use homemade pumpkin purée if you have some on hand!

Does it freeze and reheat well?

Yes, Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a freezer-friendly superstar. Store it in individual containers and thaw overnight for quick lunches or dinner on busy days. The flavor holds up beautifully and sometimes tastes even better after a freeze-thaw cycle.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with a new autumn staple, Pumpkin Turkey Chili is here to make your dinner table cozy, vibrant, and delicious. Don’t wait for the leaves to turn—give this recipe a try and share a bowl with someone you love!