Pumpkin Chili: The Perfect Fall Recipe!
Warm up this fall with a delicious Pumpkin Chili Recipe. This hearty, savory chili combines ground meat, beans, and pumpkin for a cozy, nutritious meal perfect for cool autumn days. Easy to make and ideal for game days or weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey/plant-based meat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon optional, for a subtle warmth
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
- Tortilla chips optional for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Pumpkin and Spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Let the mixture cook for 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and infuse the meat with flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and the drained kidney and black beans. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Add the broth, stir to combine, and bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season to Taste: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the pumpkin chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions. Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch!