This Flavorful Pumpkin Chili is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pumpkin puree, beans, and spices, it’s both hearty and healthful. Plus, the autumn flavors are so inviting!
Every spoonful feels like a cozy fall day. I love to add some crunchy tortilla chips on top. Who doesn’t enjoy a little extra crunch? 🍂
Making this chili is a breeze! Just mix everything in one pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the lovely smell filling your kitchen. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Great for sautéing, but feel free to use other oils like avocado or vegetable oil if you prefer. Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but any cooking oil will work fine!
Ground Beef or Turkey: If you want a vegetarian option, replace it with lentils, quinoa, or extra beans for protein. I often use a mix of black beans and kidney beans for a hearty twist!
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star ingredient! Make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling. You can use butternut squash puree as a good substitute if you can’t find pumpkin.
Beans: Use any beans you love! Black, kidney, or even chickpeas work amazingly. No beans? You can even add more veggies like corn or zucchini instead.
Spices: Don’t skip the cumin and smoked paprika—they add depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too. Love spicy? Toss in some jalapeños or hot sauce!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili Comes Out Perfectly Thick?
Achieving the right thickness is essential for great chili! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cook it uncovered: Allow some liquid to evaporate, which thickens the chili.
- Add more pumpkin or beans: This not only thickens the chili but also boosts nutrition!
- Simmer longer: Cooking for extra time helps flavors meld and the chili to reduce.
For best results, let it simmer gently. If it gets too thick, you can add a bit more broth. It’s all about finding your perfect texture! Enjoy your cozy chili!
Flavorful Pumpkin Chili for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers or diced sweet potatoes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced red onion or pickled red onion
- Tortilla chips or toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy chili recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy! Perfect for a chilly evening at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This will build a lovely foundation flavor for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Meat
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing. If you’re using ground beef or turkey, add it now. Cook the meat until it’s browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, don’t forget to drain it off!
3. Spice It Up
Time to add some spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let these toast for 1-2 minutes; this really brings out their flavors!
4. Combine the Ingredients
Now it’s time to make it chili! Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, pumpkin puree, and broth. Give everything a good stir to mix it well until it looks vibrant and inviting.
5. Add Beans and Veggies
If you’re using beans and optional bell peppers or sweet potatoes, toss them into the mix now. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the chili thicken and develop its delicious flavors!
6. Final Touches
Once it’s been simmering and smells heavenly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the chili into bowls. Top each bowl with your favorite garnishes—shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, diced red onions, and some crunchy tortilla chips or toasted bread on the side!
This pumpkin chili is not only packed with flavor but is also nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy your warm meal while cozied up at home!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef or turkey and replace it with more beans or hearty vegetables like lentils, quinoa, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. This will still give you a rich and satisfying chili!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just roast or steam the pumpkin until soft, then puree it before adding it to the chili. You’ll want about 1 cup of pureed fresh pumpkin to match the canned puree in the recipe.
What Can I Serve With Pumpkin Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. Enjoy your cozy bowl of chili!