Description
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring the warmth of pumpkin, perfect for a cozy autumn meal. This recipe combines classic chili ingredients with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin for a unique and comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey or beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the rinsed and drained kidney beans and black beans, pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can add extra beans or a plant-based protein substitute.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper and jalapeños.
- This chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- The pumpkin puree adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess; ensure you are using 100% pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American