There’s something so comforting about a bowl of chili, especially when the air turns crisp and pumpkins start appearing on doorsteps. This Turkey Pumpkin Chili has been a hit at our table for years. I remember making it one chilly evening when I wanted something warm and hearty but didn’t want the heaviness of beef. I tossed in some ground turkey, a can of pumpkin purée I had leftover from pie season, and crossed my fingers. The result? My husband looked up after the first bite and said, “Now that’s fall in a bowl.”

This dish quickly became a staple in our home; a little spicy, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner, this pumpkin-infused twist on classic turkey chili is your new go-to.

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Why You’ll Love This Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Nutritious, flavorful, and easy to make. This turkey and pumpkin chili recipe is protein-packed, loaded with fiber, and uses simple pantry staples. The pumpkin doesn’t taste like pie; instead, it adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess that thickens the chili without any dairy.

You’ll also love that this recipe:

Comes together in one pot
Is freezer-friendly for batch cooking
Offers a healthy spin on traditional chili
Pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice

If you’re a fan of simple fall meals like this Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, you’ll appreciate how this dish turns ordinary ingredients into a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this recipe is easy to find, affordable, and shelf-stable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful turkey pumpkin chili:

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cinnamon (trust me!)
Salt & pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For extra flavor, try topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips.

Need a cozy bread to serve on the side? Try this moist Pumpkin Bread; perfect for dipping.

How to Make It

Making turkey pumpkin chili is easy and requires minimal hands-on time. Here’s how to get it done:

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Brown the turkey
Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes.
Step 3: Add spices and liquids
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat, then pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and pumpkin purée.
Step 4: Add beans & simmer
Stir in both types of beans. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.

For another hearty fall dish, you’ll love our creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup, perfect as a starter or cozy lunch.

Tips and Variations

Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Go vegetarian: Skip the turkey and double up on beans or add lentils.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn work well here.
Batch cooking: This chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Want something a little creamier? Check out this family-favorite White Chicken Chili for a different cozy spin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze turkey pumpkin chili?
Yes! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Does the pumpkin taste sweet?
Not really. It adds a subtle richness but doesn’t make the chili taste like dessert.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely. Roast and purée fresh pumpkin for a more homemade feel, just make sure it’s unsweetened.

What toppings go best with this chili?
Shredded cheese, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt add great texture and flavor.

Craving more hearty meals? Don’t miss our simple and filling Easy Chili Recipe for a classic version.

Conclusion

This turkey pumpkin chili is the kind of fall recipe you’ll keep coming back to. It’s quick, wholesome, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or planning meals ahead of time, this is one pot of goodness that ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a fun way to use up that extra can of pumpkin sitting in the pantry.

So go ahead, make a batch, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to cold weather dish. From our kitchen to yours – enjoy every spoonful!

For more easy and satisfying recipes, don’t hesitate to join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!

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Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Pumpkin Chili