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Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe

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4.5 from 146 reviews

This Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful twist on classic chili, combining lean ground turkey with seasonal pumpkin puree and a blend of warming spices. Perfect for cooler weather, this recipe offers a comforting and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and can be adapted for slow cooking.

Ingredients

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Meat and Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey (96% lean)

Spices and Seasonings

  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 (14 ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or brown sugar
  • 3/4 to 1 cup chicken stock

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Season with a big pinch of kosher salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables are softened, approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  3. Add spices and cook: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this spice mixture with the turkey for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
  4. Combine pumpkin and liquids: Mix in the pumpkin puree, fire-roasted tomatoes, pinto beans, maple syrup or brown sugar, and chicken stock. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Simmer the chili: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings such as tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, avocado, or sour cream.

Notes

  • You can easily double this recipe to make a larger batch for a crowd.
  • This chili can simmer covered on the stove for several hours if you want deeper flavors.
  • For a convenient alternative, brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours.