This Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is a cozy hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender turkey, creamy pumpkin, and spices that bring warmth and flavor. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how this chili is not just tasty but also easy to whip up. Plus, who doesn’t love that it’s a one-pot meal? Less mess means more time to enjoy it with friends! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, ground turkey is a fantastic base for chili. If you prefer, you can substitute it with lean ground beef or plant-based protein to suit dietary needs.
Pumpkin Puree: This gives the chili its creamy texture and a touch of sweetness. Be sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not the spiced pie filling. If pumpkin isn’t available, sweet potato puree works great too.
Beans: White and kidney beans add protein and texture. If you can’t find them, chickpeas or black beans can easily replace them. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
Heavy Cream: For richness, I like to use heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, like coconut cream, can also work well here.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Flavor in Your Chili?
The secret to a flavorful chili lies in the spices and how you cook them! This step is crucial for developing depth.
- Start by sautĂ©ing your onions and bell peppers until they’re soft. This builds a great foundation for the flavor.
- Add garlic and your spices (chili powder, cumin, cinnamon) and cook for an extra minute. This toasts the spices, bringing out their flavors before you add liquid.
- Don’t rush. Let the chili simmer for about 20 minutes to let all the ingredients meld together. This patience will pay off in a flavorful bowl!
How to Make Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy, quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes. This will create a delicious base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Turkey:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Then, add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
3. Spice It Up:
Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for 1-2 minutes. Toasting the spices enhances their flavors!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, rinsed white beans, rinsed kidney beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. Add Pumpkin and Cream:
After 20 minutes, stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream (or half-and-half) until fully combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow the chili to thicken slightly.
6. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves for a lovely touch!
This creamy turkey pumpkin chili is not just packed with flavor; it’s also warm and comforting—perfect for any occasion!
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Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the fat content—lean ground beef is a great option to keep the chili from becoming too greasy.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk, though note that it will slightly alter the flavor.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your creamy turkey pumpkin chili will last in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just add them during the cooking process so they have time to soften.
