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One-Pot Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, orange-red pumpkin chili containing ground meat and kidney beans.

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Make this hearty, high-protein pumpkin chili in one pot for an easy, comforting fall dinner. This recipe uses ground turkey and creamy pumpkin puree for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup half-and-half or evaporated milk (for creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned completely. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the turkey. Cook until the onion softens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rinsed beans, pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with liquid), and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to blend.
  7. Remove the lid. Stir in the half-and-half or evaporated milk for a creamy texture. Heat through for another 5 minutes, but do not allow it to boil after adding the dairy.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with 1 cup of cooked lentils or an extra can of mixed beans.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes before adding the dairy component.
  • Top servings with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

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