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One-Pan Pumpkin Turkey Chili: Easy & Cozy Fall Dinner

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This One-Pan Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a cozy fall dinner that comes together in about 40 minutes. The pumpkin adds a velvety richness without making it sweet, and the whole dish is made in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pie filling)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, tortilla chips or crusty bread

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes, then break it into smaller pieces. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper over the turkey and vegetables. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  4. Add the pumpkin puree and stir until well combined. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained black beans and kidney beans. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  6. Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened and the pumpkin has dissolved into the broth.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

Don’t rush the simmer; the pumpkin needs time to meld. For best flavor, make a day ahead. Start with less heat than you think you need—you can always add more at the table.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin turkey chili, one-pan chili, fall dinner, easy chili recipe, healthy chili