If you’re looking to cozy up with a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with flavor and good-for-you ingredients, this Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe is your new go-to meal. Combining the warm spices of chili with the subtle sweetness and creaminess of pumpkin, this dish transforms traditional chili into a nourishing, vibrant feast. It’s hearty without being heavy, packed with protein and fiber, and perfect for those chilly days when you want something satisfying but still wholesome. Trust me, once you try this Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, using fresh vegetables, lean ground turkey, and pantry staples to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that signature rich, cozy chili that’s both healthy and delicious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds healthy fats and helps sauté the vegetables to release their flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the chili’s base.
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced: Adds a mild heat that wakes up your taste buds without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Offers crunch and vibrant color, plus a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 pound ground turkey: Provides lean protein, making this chili filling and nutritious.
- 1 (14 ounces) can pumpkin puree: Gives the chili a creamy texture and subtle earthiness, along with a boost of vitamins.
- 1 (14 ounces) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds fiber, heartiness, and balances the flavors with soft, tender beans.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomatoey richness and thickens the chili perfectly.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chili moist and infuses it with extra savory notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne: Delivers a gentle heat that harmonizes with the sweetness of pumpkin.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Classic chili spice that anchors the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky nuance for complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Surprising yet magical, it enhances the pumpkin and spices with warm undertones.
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper: Adds subtle heat and sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses the chili with that unmistakable earthy, woody aroma.
How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in the diced onions, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sautéing these together for about five minutes softens the veggies and unlocks their natural sweetness and vibrant flavors, which will build the foundation of this chili’s deliciousness.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Cooking it until browned ensures you get that rich meatiness with a little caramelization. This step enhances the chili’s hearty texture and develops layers of flavor that will shine through in the finished dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked turkey-vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the pumpkin puree, drained kidney beans, tomato paste, chicken broth, and all the spices: cayenne, chili powder, paprika, cinnamon, ground pepper, salt, and cumin. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, so the spices are evenly distributed and the richness of the pumpkin melds with the savory elements.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to high and cook the chili for 3 to 4 hours, or use the low setting and let it simmer for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows flavors to develop fully and the texture to deepen, creating a luscious, comforting chili that’s ready to warm your soul.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give the chili a quick stir and prepare to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The colors will be rich and inviting, the spices aromatic and perfectly balanced with the creamy pumpkin base.
How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The joy of chili is in the toppings, so take it up a notch with garnishes that add texture and freshness. Consider a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness. Crispy tortilla strips or thinly sliced green onions make a beautiful and tasty finish.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some warm cornbread to soak up every last drop. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or small bread bowls to make an eye-catching presentation perfect for cozy gatherings. You can also layer the chili over baked sweet potatoes or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers for a delightful variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Its flavors actually deepen after a day, so it’s perfect for making in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
This chili freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. If it seems a bit thick, splash in a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This will keep the texture just right and maintain that comforting, silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will give the chili a richer, more traditional flavor. Just keep in mind it will be higher in fat, so you might want to drain any excess grease before adding it to the slow cooker.
Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No, canned pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices, making it perfect for savory dishes like this chili. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, includes sweeteners and spices, so it’s best reserved for desserts.
Can I make this chili on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the turkey and sautéing the vegetables, add all ingredients to a large pot, bring to a simmer, then cook covered on low for about an hour, stirring occasionally until flavors meld and the chili thickens.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can reduce or omit the cayenne and jalapeño to keep the chili mild — it will still be deliciously flavorful from the other spices and pumpkin. You can always add a little hot sauce on the side for those who want a kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe reheats beautifully and keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal choice for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe enough if you want a comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple to make, packed with good-for-you ingredients, and has a unique twist that will surprise and delight your family and friends. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
Healthy Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This healthy pumpkin turkey chili combines lean ground turkey with nutrient-rich pumpkin puree and flavorful spices for a hearty, comforting meal. Slow-cooked to perfection, it blends sweetness from the pumpkin with savory and spicy elements, making it a perfect dish for cooler days and a great way to enjoy seasonal produce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (14 ounces) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 ounces) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing vegetables and meat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, finely diced jalapeño, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for about five minutes until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables soften, releasing their flavors.
- Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the turkey and vegetable mixture into a slow cooker. Then add the pumpkin puree, drained kidney beans, tomato paste, chicken broth, cayenne, chili powder, paprika, cinnamon, ground black pepper, salt, and cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook the Chili: Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, serve your pumpkin turkey chili warm. Optional toppings can be added for extra flavor and texture.
- Store Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for later enjoyment.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by reducing or omitting the jalapeño and cayenne pepper according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Make sure to rinse and drain the kidney beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
