Name: Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups); 1 orange bell pepper, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 Tbsp. chili powder; 2 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon; 1 lb. ground turkey (93% lean); 2 (15.5-oz.) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 2 (14.5-oz.) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin puree; 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth); Kosher salt and black pepper to taste; 1/3 cup sour cream (plus more for garnish, if desired); Grated cheese; Toasted pepitas; Crushed tortilla chips; Green onions

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 84 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that delivers comfort, rich flavors, and a healthy twist, look no further than this Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of lean ground turkey, creamy pumpkin puree, hearty white beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, all simmered to perfection. Each spoonful wraps you in the warm spices of chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cinnamon, making this chili an ideal meal for cozy fall evenings or anytime you want a satisfying, nutritious bowl of goodness.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two white pots with handles on a white marbled surface, side by side. The left pot contains a cooked mix of finely chopped brown ground meat with small pieces of orange carrots and translucent diced onions, all combined and slightly browned, filling about three-quarters of the pot. The right pot holds a thick stew-like mixture with the same ground meat now simmered in a rich red tomato sauce, filled with whole white beans and chunky pieces of red and orange vegetables, spreading evenly to fill the pot almost to the top, with steam-like texture visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly in this recipe, each playing an important role in building classic chili flavors balanced by the smooth texture and subtle sweetness of pumpkin. With these essentials on hand, you’re all set to craft a memorable meal.

Extra-virgin olive oil (2 Tbsp.): Helps soften vegetables and infuse the chili with a rich, fruity base.
Yellow onion, diced (1 medium): Adds a sweet and savory foundation to the stew.
Orange bell pepper, diced (1): Provides a pop of color and a mild, fresh sweetness.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Imparts aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
Chili powder (1 ½ Tbsp.): Brings warmth and classic chili heat to the mix.
Ground cumin (2 tsp.): Offers an earthy, smoky undertone that complements the turkey perfectly.
Dried oregano (1 tsp.): Adds herbal complexity to the seasoning.
Ground cinnamon (½ tsp.): Provides a surprising hint of warmth and spice that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
Ground turkey (1 lb., 93% lean): Keeps the chili lean yet protein-packed for a healthy feel.
Cannellini beans (2 cans, 15.5 oz. each): Introduce creamy texture and boost fiber content.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 oz. each): Deliver smoky tomato flavor and a bit of tang.
Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz.): Adds subtle sweetness and velvety body, plus the fall vibe.
Vegetable or chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps the chili moist and flavorful without heaviness.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Sour cream (⅓ cup, plus extra for garnish): Adds creaminess and tang when stirred in and served on top.

How to Make Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your diced onion and orange bell pepper. Cook these gently until they become soft and translucent, around 6 to 7 minutes. This base is where the flavors really get cozy and start mingling beautifully.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes. You'll instantly notice the inviting aroma that signals your Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe is off to an amazing start.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6 minutes. Season generously with kosher salt and pepper at this stage to build the chili’s flavor foundation.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans, Tomatoes, and Pumpkin

Next, stir in the cannellini beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, and broth. Bring the entire mixture up to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help everything meld beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Sour Cream and Final Seasoning

Once simmered, turn off the heat and fold in the sour cream carefully. This step adds luscious creaminess and a touch of tang that sets this chili apart. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if you need it—you want the flavors to really shine through.

How to Serve Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick, chunky orange-red stew that contains pieces of beans, tomatoes, and ground meat. On top of the stew, there is a dollop of white sour cream, sprinkled with shredded yellow cheese, green chopped spring onions, and green pumpkin seeds. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a brown textured cloth nearby and a wooden bowl with green chopped spring onions in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The joy of this chili isn't just in the pot but also in the toppings. Offer sour cream or plain full-fat Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast. Toasted pepitas introduce crunch, while grated cheese adds melty richness. Don't forget crushed tortilla chips for that delightful texture and green onions for some fresh bite and color.

Side Dishes

This chili is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with warm cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even a simple scoop of fluffy rice makes the meal feel even more comforting and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners, ladle the chili directly into bowls with an artful sprinkle of your favorite toppings. Hosting a casual party? Serve the chili in small mason jars or cups with garnishes in mini bowls on the side so guests can customize their bowls. It’s both practical and charming!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili is even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and harmonize. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just let the chili cool before sealing it to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, transfer the cooled Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe to freezer-safe bags, flatten them, and store in the freezer. Chill for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a little extra broth or water if it seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between to ensure even warmth and prevent hot spots.

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 may be a bit higher in fat than the lean turkey version, but it’s a delicious alternative.

Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, canned pumpkin is pure pumpkin puree without added spices or sugar, whereas pumpkin pie filling includes sweeteners and spices. For this chili, make sure you use plain pumpkin puree for the best texture and flavor balance.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and consider adding extra beans or lentils for protein. You might also want to use vegetable broth to keep the flavors consistent.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe offers a mild to medium level of heat thanks to the chili powder. You can easily adjust the spice by adding cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chilies if you want a kick, or use less chili powder for a gentler flavor.

What makes the pumpkin a good addition to chili?

Pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that balances the savory and spicy notes of chili. It also boosts the nutritional content with fiber and vitamins, making the dish extra wholesome and comforting.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe is one of those rare finds that feels both nourishing and indulgent at the same time. It’s perfect for cool nights when you want something hearty but healthy, and it’s incredibly easy to make with pantry staples. I strongly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite in your fall and winter rotation, bringing warmth and joy to your table.