Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

$- Ground turkey - Pumpkin puree - Kidney beans - Black beans - Diced tomatoes with green chilies - Onion - Garlic - Chicken broth - Olive oil - Chili powder - Cumin - Smoked paprika - Cayenne pepper - Heavy cream - Fresh cilantro In my kitchen, I love using ground turkey as my main protein. It adds great flavor while keeping the dish light. Pumpkin puree is essential for that creamy texture and fall vibe. I always include kidney and black beans for fiber and heartiness. Diced tomatoes with green chilies contribute spice and color. I chop a medium onion and mince a few garlic cloves for a strong base. Chicken broth gives depth to the chili. Olive oil helps sauté the onion and garlic perfectly. For seasoning, I rely on chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. These spices create that warm, comforting taste. Heavy cream at the end makes the chili rich and luscious. Finally, I garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. This blend of ingredients ensures a tasty, comforting dish every time. - Other bean varieties (e.g., pinto beans) - Vegetable broth for a lighter option - Corn for added sweetness If you want to mix it up, try using other beans, like pinto beans. They add a different texture and taste. For a lighter version, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. If you like a hint of sweetness, throw in some corn. Each option can enhance your chili in fun ways. - First, chop the onion and mince the garlic. - Gather your pot, spatula, and measuring cups. - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. - Once the onion is translucent, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. - Add the ground turkey to the pot and brown it for 5-7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks. - After the turkey is browned, mix in the pumpkin puree, kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes. - Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together. - Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. - Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. - Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. - After simmering, stir in the heavy cream and heat through for another 5 minutes. - Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. To change the heat level of your chili, you have options. If you like it mild, skip the cayenne pepper. You can also reduce the chili powder. For more heat, add extra cayenne or use a hotter chili powder. This way, you control the spice to fit your taste. You can even try smoked paprika for a nice kick without adding too much heat. Making this chili ahead of time has many perks. It allows the flavors to meld together. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. Use airtight containers for best results. If you want to freeze it, keep it in freezer-safe containers. It will last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Fresh herbs can really boost the taste of your chili. Consider adding chopped cilantro right before serving for a zesty touch. You can also sprinkle lime juice for extra brightness. When serving, cornbread or rice makes great sides. They soak up the creamy sauce. This adds texture and flavor, making every bite satisfying. {{image_2}} You can make a vegetarian version of this chili by using plant-based ground meat alternatives. Options like lentils or black bean crumbles work well. They add texture while keeping the dish hearty. To boost the veggie content, toss in more bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. This adds flavor and nutrition without losing the chili vibe. You can substitute chicken or beef for turkey if you prefer. Ground chicken is light and works well. Beef adds richness, but it changes the flavor. For a unique twist, try adding sausage. The spices in sausage add a different kick. Just make sure to drain the fat after browning it. If you want to skip dairy, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Coconut milk adds a slight sweetness. Cashew cream gives a rich, creamy feel without dairy. Adjust the amount to get the right texture. You can still enjoy a creamy chili without the cream! To store leftovers, let the chili cool first. Place it in airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to seal them tightly. This keeps the flavors fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. To freeze chili, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Pour the cooled chili into the bags. Squeeze out the air before sealing. This prevents freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat. Stir often to ensure even heating. Fresh chili lasts about four days in the fridge. Frozen chili can stay good for up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or notice a bad smell, throw it away. Always trust your senses; they are your best guide. Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. First, you must cook the pumpkin. Cut it into pieces, steam, or boil until soft. Then, blend it until smooth. This method takes more time. The texture will be chunkier than puree. If you want a creamy chili, stick with the puree. The chili can be mild or spicy. The recipe includes cayenne pepper for heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer less heat, use less cayenne. For more spice, add extra chili powder or hot sauce. Many sides work well with this chili. Here are some great options: - Crusty bread for dipping - Cornbread for a sweet touch - Fresh salad for crunch These sides add flavor and balance the meal. Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. First, brown the turkey in a pan. Then, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add all other ingredients, including the pumpkin, beans, and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the heavy cream before serving. Enjoy a warm bowl of chili! This blog covered everything you need for Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili. We discussed the key ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. I shared variations for different diets, plus storage info to keep leftovers fresh. Now you have the tools to make a delicious chili. Use the tips to make it your own. Get ready to enjoy a warm, flavorful dish that’s sure to please!$

Warm up your dinner table with this delicious Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili! Packed with wholesome ingredients like ground turkey, pumpkin, and beans, this dish combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s easy to make in one pot and ready in just 40 minutes. Click through to discover the full recipe and serve up a bowl of autumn goodness everyone will love!

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Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup heavy cream

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Stir in the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.

Once the turkey is cooked, add in the pumpkin puree, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and chicken broth.

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine well.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

After simmering, stir in the heavy cream and allow to heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6