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Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili - featured image

A hearty and comforting chili recipe with a seasonal twist of pumpkin, perfect for cozy fall nights and busy schedules.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker.
  4. Add the pumpkin puree, crushed tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.
  5. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if you’re around.
  7. Once the chili is done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a thicker chili, let it cook uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Notes

Make this chili a day ahead for deeper flavors. Customize the heat level with jalapeños or hot sauce, and don’t skip browning the meat for added flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chili, slow cooker chili, fall recipes, hearty chili, comfort food, meal prep, kid-friendly chili