Pumpkin chili is a tasty twist on traditional chili that adds a mild sweetness and rich texture you might not expect. It combines pumpkin with ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and spices to make a warm, hearty meal perfect for fall or any chilly day. This recipe is easy to make and can be ready in under an hour.
This post may contain affiliate links.
You don’t have to wait for Halloween or Thanksgiving to enjoy pumpkin in your savory dishes. Pumpkin chili is a great way to use pumpkin beyond desserts, offering a comforting, flavorful dish that your whole family can enjoy. Whether you like spicy or mild, this chili can be adjusted to your taste.
If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy way to warm up your evenings, pumpkin chili could be just the answer. It’s a simple, cozy meal that brings together classic chili flavors with a hint of fall. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this cooks, and your bowl will be filling and satisfying.
Related Recipe: Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chili
How To Make Pumpkin Chili
You’ll need a few key ingredients, like beans, pumpkin, and spices, to start your pumpkin chili. The cooking steps are simple and include browning meat, adding veggies, then simmering everything with pumpkin and beans. Some easy tips can boost the flavor and make your chili even better.
Related Recipe: 6 Cozy Chili Recipes for Fall Nights
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound ground turkey, chicken, or beef (optional)
- 4 cups fresh pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) beans of choice, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in the ground meat if using and cook until browned. Add cubed pumpkin and cook for a few minutes to begin softening. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat.
Related Recipe: Authentic Texas Chili Recipe (No Beans)
Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer 25–30 minutes, or until pumpkin is tender and chili has thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, and add optional toppings like sour cream, cheese, or avocado.d let it cook for a few minutes to start softening. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together to coat.
Related Recipe: Hot Dog Chili: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite
Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the pumpkin is tender and the chili has thickened, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more spice or cayenne if you want extra heat.
Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro or parsley, and add optional garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Use fresh spices for the best taste; old spices can be dull.
Let your chili simmer low and slow to allow flavors to develop fully.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika for a warm, rich depth.
Taste as you go and adjust salt or chili powder to fit your preference.
If your chili is too thick, add more broth or water to loosen it up.
For a smoky hint, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked salt works well.
Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro to add texture and freshness.
Related Recipe: The Best Easy Cowboy Chili Recipe: A Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food
Variations and Serving Ideas
You can customize your pumpkin chili to fit your diet and taste. Adjust the heat level with different spices. There are many tasty ways to serve your chili that add color and flavor.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you want a meat-free chili, swap the ground meat for beans, lentils, or chopped vegetables like mushrooms. Black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas all work well and add protein.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. You can also choose plant-based meat substitutes if you want a similar texture to ground meat.
For a vegan version, skip cheese and sour cream toppings. Try avocado slices, chopped green onions, or dairy-free yogurt instead. These keep your chili creamy without dairy.
Related Recipe: White Chicken Chili: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Recipe
Spice Level Adjustments
Control the chili’s heat by changing the types and amounts of spices you add. Start with mild chili powder if you prefer less heat.
Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for medium spice. For more heat, use hotter peppers like serrano or habanero, but add them slowly to avoid making it too spicy.
You can always serve chili with toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream. These toppings help cool down the heat if you overdo the spices.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin chili tastes great on its own or with simple sides. Try serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or steamed rice for a filling meal.
For a fresh contrast, make a light salad with spinach, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds. These add crunch and keep the pumpkin theme going.
Top your chili with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream to add extra flavor and texture. You can also add avocado or fresh cilantro for a nice touch.
Follow my cozy fall recipes board on Pinterest.