Easy Pumpkin Chili Recipe

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If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve got to try this Easy Pumpkin Chili. It brilliantly combines the hearty richness of ground turkey and sausage with the subtle sweetness and velvety texture of pumpkin purée, creating a chili that’s surprisingly fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe brings together bold flavors and seasonal ingredients in a way that feels both nourishing and exciting. Trust me, once you make this Easy Pumpkin Chili, it might just become your go-to for autumn and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Pumpkin Chili recipe uses simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each bring their own charm: from the savory meats to the colorful veggies and warming spices, everything works in harmony to deliver deep, comforting flavors and a stunning autumnal hue.

• 1 lb ground turkey: Choose extra lean for a healthier base with plenty of protein and mild flavor.
• 12 oz chicken maple sausage: Adds a hint of sweetness and a wonderful depth to the chili—slice or remove casing before cooking.
• 1 sweet onion: Chopped to provide a gentle, natural sweetness and texture.
• 4 garlic cloves: Minced, these bring that unmistakable aromatic punch every great chili needs.
• 1 yellow bell pepper: Diced for a pop of color and fresh sweetness.
• 1 orange bell pepper: Offers a vibrant hue and a subtly fruity flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans: Drained and rinsed, they add creaminess and a lovely bite.
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans: Also drained and rinsed, vital for classic chili texture and heartiness.
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée: The star ingredient, lending a rich, silky texture and a hint of natural sweetness.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and brightness that balance the pumpkin’s creaminess.
• 1 cup spiced apple cider: A surprisingly delightful addition that boosts warmth and complexity.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chili perfectly saucy without overpowering other flavors.
• 2 tbsp chili powder: Adds depth and that classic chili warmth.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers an earthy undertone that complements the spices beautifully.
• 1 tsp cumin: Essential for that nutty, smoky backbone in every bite.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances acidity and enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of heat that you can adjust to your liking.
• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided: For sautéing and browning, infusing layers of flavor.
• Sea salt and pepper: To taste, organically tying all the components together.
• Optional garnishes: Sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions for that perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Turkey

Start by slicing the chicken maple sausage or removing it from its casing. Set it aside with the ground turkey, so they’re ready to cook together later. This pairing ensures a perfect balance between lean protein and delicious, subtly sweet seasoning from the sausage.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sweet onion, cooking them until they turn translucent and fragrant—this builds the foundational flavor for your chili. Next, toss in the diced yellow and orange bell peppers and continue cooking for another 5 minutes to soften them slightly and bring out their natural sweetness. Set these sautéed veggies aside for now.

Step 3: Cook the Meats

In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brown the ground turkey and chicken maple sausage for about 10 minutes, breaking the meat apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. This caramelized meat layer is where much of the chili’s savory richness comes from.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Return the sautéed peppers, onion, and garlic to the pot with the browned meats. Stir in the diced tomatoes, pumpkin purée, drained cannellini beans, red kidney beans, chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This colorful and fragrant mix is where the magic begins, melding sweet, smoky, and spicy notes into a complex, layered chili.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the spiced apple cider and chicken broth, stirring everything thoroughly to combine. Lower the heat to low and let your chili simmer gently for one and a half to two hours, stirring occasionally. The slow simmer allows all the flavors to marry beautifully while the pumpkin purée melts into a silky, luscious texture that sets this chili apart.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjust

Once your Easy Pumpkin Chili has thickened and the flavors have deepened, taste it carefully. Adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed. This step is crucial to tailor the chili perfectly to your palate before serving.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Chili

Garnishes

Adding garnishes elevates your chili both visually and flavor-wise. A dollop of creamy sour cream cools the spicy notes, grated cheddar cheese introduces a comforting melty richness, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions adds fresh crunch and a mild oniony bite. These simple touches transform a bowl of chili into a feast for the senses.

Side Dishes

Easy Pumpkin Chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Cornbread, crumbly and buttery, complements the chili’s bold flavors beautifully. Alternatively, warm tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, or even roasted winter vegetables create a well-rounded meal. Choose sides that contrast the chili’s richness with either freshness or a touch of crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this chili inside hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls—this adds an autumnal touch that’s sure to impress guests. You can also layer your chili over cooked grains like rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl that stretches servings. Leftovers make fantastic chili-stuffed baked potatoes, giving this Easy Pumpkin Chili endless versatility.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your chili completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers an even better option for next-day meals.

Freezing

This Easy Pumpkin Chili freezes like a dream! Pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy a ready-made comforting dinner whenever you need it.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Microwave reheating works well too; just cover loosely and heat in bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat instead of turkey or sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute work well. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the meat is fully cooked and browned for the best flavor development.

Is the pumpkin purée flavor very strong in this chili?

The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture without overpowering the chili’s other flavors. It balances perfectly with the spices and meats, lending richness and a beautiful autumn vibe to the dish.

Can I make this chili spicy?

Definitely. The recipe includes cayenne pepper for optional heat, but you can easily add more chili powder, smoked paprika, or hot sauce to suit your spice level preferences.

What if I don’t have spiced apple cider?

No worries! Apple cider vinegar diluted with a little sugar can mimic some of the tanginess and sweetness, or you can simply increase the chicken broth and add a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup to compensate.

Can Easy Pumpkin Chili be made in a slow cooker?

Yes! Follow the initial browning steps, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Chili is everything a weeknight meal should be: simple, satisfying, and bursting with cozy autumn flavors that remind you of home and good company. If you’re ready to impress your taste buds and warm your soul, give this recipe a try—it’s a delightful spin on a classic dish that you and your loved ones will want to make again and again.

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