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As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, the desire for comforting, hearty meals grows stronger. One dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall is Cozy Crockpot Turkey Pumpkin Chili. This recipe not only celebrates the season’s flavors but also offers a nutritious twist on traditional chili. By combining lean ground turkey with rich pumpkin puree, this chili is both filling and packed with health benefits, making it the ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Cozy Crockpot Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Warm up your fall evenings with Cozy Crockpot Turkey Pumpkin Chili, a delightful twist on traditional chili that combines lean ground turkey and nutritious pumpkin puree. This hearty dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with health benefits, thanks to beans and vibrant spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, simply layer your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and let the flavors meld together while you go about your day. Enjoy a comforting bowl of autumn bliss!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)

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

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

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tbsp ground cumin

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges

Instructions
 

Sauté the Base: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the turkey and onion mixture into a crockpot.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, kidney beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

          Cook: Cover the crockpot and set on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.

            Taste and Adjust: Near the end of cooking, taste the chili and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you want it spicier, add your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

              Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6-8