Crockpot Pumpkin Chili
If you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm your soul this fall, you’ve come to the right place! My Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a delightful combination of flavors that brings the essence of the season right into your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple but packed with wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of chili simmering away, ready to serve.
What makes this dish special is its ability to blend classic chili flavors with the warm, earthy taste of pumpkin. It’s a unique twist that adds a hint of sweetness and a touch of creaminess, making it a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together—just set it and forget it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time!
- Family-Friendly: The mild flavors are sure to please even picky eaters, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and enjoy leftovers!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and turkey, this dish is both hearty and nutritious.
- Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with cornbread or rice, allowing you to customize your meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. These items are easy to find at your local grocery store, ensuring that you can whip up this comforting dish anytime you crave a taste of fall.
For the Chili
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (canned)
- 15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned)
- 15 oz. chili beans (canned)
- 15 oz. black beans (canned or home cooked)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder
Variations
One of the best things about this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is how adaptable it is! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian option—both will work wonderfully!
- Add some heat: If you like things spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Mix up the beans: Use kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer; they’ll add their own unique flavor and texture.
- Top it off: Serve with avocado slices, shredded cheese alternatives, or fresh cilantro for added freshness!
How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili
Step 1: Brown the Turkey
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the ground turkey and chopped onion. Sauté until the turkey is crumbly and no longer pink. This step is key because browning adds depth and flavor to your chili! Be sure to drain any excess fat before moving on.
Step 2: Combine in the Crockpot
Transfer your cooked turkey and onions into your slow cooker. Next, stir in all remaining ingredients: diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Mixing these together ensures every bite bursts with flavor!
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Set your crockpot to low heat and cover it up! Let everything cook for about 3 hours. The magic happens here as all those amazing flavors meld together into one delicious bowl of comfort food.
Now that you’ve got everything set up perfectly, sit back and relax while your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili does its thing! Enjoy this heartwarming dish any night of the week—you deserve it!
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Pumpkin Chili
Making the perfect Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a breeze with a few handy tips!
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Choose lean ground turkey: Opting for lean ground turkey not only makes your chili healthier but also prevents excess grease, letting the flavors of the other ingredients really shine through.
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Use fresh spices: Fresh spices can uplift your chili, giving it a vibrant taste. If you have spices that have been sitting in your cupboard for a while, consider replacing them to get the most flavor out of your dish.
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Mix your beans: Combining different types of beans like chili beans and black beans adds variety in texture and flavor, making each spoonful exciting and hearty.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Since everyone’s palate is different, don’t hesitate to taste as you go! You might find that you prefer a bit more chili powder or brown sugar, so feel free to adjust according to your preferences.
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Let it rest before serving: Allowing your chili to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can help all the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!
How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili
When it’s time to serve up this cozy dish, there are plenty of ways to present your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili that will impress family and friends alike.
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh cilantro: This adds a bright, herbal note that complements the richness of the chili.
- Sour cream alternative: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream can provide creaminess and balance out the spiciness.
- Shredded cheese alternative: Sprinkle some plant-based shredded cheese on top for a melty touch that enhances the overall experience.
Side Dishes
- Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chili, soaking up all those fabulous flavors.
- Avocado salad: A simple avocado salad with lime dressing adds freshness and creaminess that cuts through the heat.
- Rice or quinoa: Serving your chili over rice or quinoa creates a filling meal. Both options absorb the chili sauce exceptionally well!
- Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips serve as an excellent sidekick. They add texture and are perfect for scooping up that delicious pumpkin chili!
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to enjoy a warm bowl of Crockpot Pumpkin Chili any day this fall!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is fantastic for meal prep! It’s not only easy to make but also gets even better as the flavors meld together over time. Here’s how to store and manage your leftovers for maximum enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Label containers with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I make this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground turkey with lentils or extra beans, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
How long can I store my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prep!
What can I serve with Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?
This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. Feel free to add toppings like avocado or dairy-free sour cream!
Can I adjust the spice level of my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?
Yes! You can easily modify the amount of chili powder or pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Crockpot Pumpkin Chili as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy fall evenings and gatherings with family and friends. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling—don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Crockpot Pumpkin Chili
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Warm up this fall with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Pumpkin Chili, a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This cozy dish combines the rich essence of pumpkin with classic chili ingredients, creating a unique and hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let the aromas fill your home while delicious flavors meld together. Packed with wholesome ingredients like ground turkey and beans, this recipe is not only filling but also nutritious. Serve it alongside cornbread or rice for a satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and even better as leftovers!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (canned)
- 15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned)
- 15 oz. chili beans (canned)
- 15 oz. black beans (canned or home cooked)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté ground turkey and chopped onion until the turkey is cooked through and crumbly. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the turkey mixture to your crockpot and add diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for about 3 hours until flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
