Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Introduction
This creamy turkey pumpkin chili is a comforting and nutritious twist on classic chili, perfect for cozy evenings. Combining savory ground turkey with smooth pumpkin puree, it creates a rich texture and subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with hearty beans and warming spices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups cooked beans (such as black beans or kidney beans)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- Step 3: Add the pumpkin puree, cooked beans, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld together.
- Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving.
- Use canned beans for convenience, and rinse them well to reduce sodium.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers with the turkey for more texture and flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting cayenne pepper.
Storage
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the chili. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and provides a smooth texture ideal for this chili.
What beans are best for turkey pumpkin chili?
Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans all work well. Choose your favorite or a combination for varied texture and flavor.
PrintCreamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe
This creamy turkey pumpkin chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Ground turkey is cooked to perfection and combined with smooth pumpkin puree, beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, then simmered until thick and comforting. It delivers a warm, nutritious twist on traditional chili with a subtle sweetness from the pumpkin and a satisfying creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add spices and pumpkin: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor. Then add the pumpkin puree and mix well to combine.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything together ensuring the pumpkin and spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let the chili simmer for 30-40 minutes or until thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed. Serve warm with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Use fresh pumpkin puree if available for a more vibrant flavor.
- To make this chili spicier, increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce more liquid.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Keywords: turkey chili, pumpkin chili, creamy chili, ground turkey recipe, healthy chili, fall recipes, comfort food
