Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Now that fall is officially here, I’ve been making a lot more soups and stews. Whether they’re in the slow cooker, the stovetop, or cooking away in the Instant Pot, there are plenty of different options. This pumpkin chili makes a hearty weeknight meal and it’s packed with fall flavor (and nutrition!).

I originally created this pumpkin chili as a way to use up the 100-pound pumpkin we bought at the farmer’s market. My kids really enjoyed it, and I love that it’s packed with veggies. When my son was on the GAPS protocol to reverse his allergies, I just gave him some of the browned meat with broth and pumpkin. Tomatoes are nightshades so he couldn’t have those at the time.

We cook this on the stovetop, but it would also work in a crockpot.

How to Make Pumpkin Chili

It’s not that different than traditional chili, but it’s a tasty twist on a classic. I’ll often use spices like smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne in my everyday chili. This pumpkin chili has some of the same flavors, but it also features cinnamon. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy optional (just omit the cheese)

The optional hint of cinnamon adds a winter warmth, and the pumpkin sneaks in some added nutrition. If you don’t have fresh available then a can of pumpkin will work, or even butternut squash or sweet potato.

Ingredient Options

I like using ground beef, but you could also use ground chicken or ground turkey if preferred. And while most chili recipes rely heavily on beans, I omitted them here. If you prefer your chili with beans though, then feel free to add some to the recipe. Black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans are all good options.

Pumpkin Chili Toppings

Here are some topping ideas for your chili. My kids love choosing their own toppings to really customize their bowls!

• Jalapeño

• Crispy tortilla strips (these homemade chips are delicious!)

• Cheese

• Cilantro

• Diced bell pepper

• Avocado

• Sour cream or plain yogurt

• Chopped yellow onion

• A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice

Even if you aren’t a fan of pumpkin, I’d encourage you to try this recipe. It is simple, delicious, and definitely kid-approved at our house! It also reheats well the next day, since the flavors have had even more time to meld.

Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Katie Wells

A hearty and delicious chili with a hint of pumpkin flavor (and all the added nutrients of delicious pumpkin!).

4.05 from 24 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 35 mins

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 12 cups

Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (or other ground meat)
• 2 medium onions
• 2 bell peppers
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 15 oz canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed, optional)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 TBSP chili powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Optional toppings

• avocado
• shredded cheese
• sour cream
• green onions
• sliced jalapeños
• crispy tortilla strips

Instructions

 

• In a large pot or dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
• When the beef is almost completely cooked, add the onions and saute until soft.
• Add the diced tomato and tomato sauce, pumpkin, broth, beans if using, and spices and stir to combine.
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes on medium-low or until heated through and flavors are incorporated.
• Top with desired toppings and enjoy!

Notes

Like any soup, toppings are optional, but they add freshness and fun. Plus my kids love that they can customize their chili!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 130kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 12gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 624mgPotassium: 525mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 7470IUVitamin C: 32mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

 Do you add pumpkin to any unusual dishes? Ever tried it in chili? Share below!