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Creamy Pumpkin Turkey Chili

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A savory, creamy pumpkin turkey chili that’s perfect for fall. This easy recipe comes together in about 40 minutes with simple ingredients, offering a healthy and comforting meal that’s surprisingly rich and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pie filling)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime juice

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned, with some golden-brown bits.
  5. Season the meat with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  6. Add the pumpkin puree and stir until fully incorporated. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  7. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir well.
  8. Add the chicken broth and stir. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  9. Stir in the kidney beans until evenly distributed.
  10. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and looks rich and creamy.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or a pinch of cayenne if desired.
  12. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, let the pumpkin cook with the spices before adding liquid to create a silky texture. This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeño with the onion or cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, skip the turkey and add an extra can of beans or diced sweet potatoes. To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chili, turkey chili, creamy chili, fall chili, easy chili recipe, healthy chili, comfort food