If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this chili combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with hearty beans and turkey. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

I love how this recipe fills the room with an enticing aroma as it simmers away in the crockpot. Whether it’s a chilly evening at home or a gathering with friends, this dish brings everyone together around the dinner table. Plus, it’s wonderfully nutritious and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to make: Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work!
Family-friendly appeal: Packed with flavors that even picky eaters will love.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Deliciously comforting: The combination of pumpkin and spices warms you up inside.
Versatile and flexible: Customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili. You probably have most of them on hand already!

For the Chili

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 onion (chopped)
14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (canned)
15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned)
15 oz. chili beans (canned)
15 oz. black beans (canned or home cooked)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Use ground chicken, lentils, or even leave out the meat for a vegan option!
Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and color.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Top it off: Serve with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or dairy-free cheese for extra flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Brown the Turkey and Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your ground turkey and chopped onion. Cooking them together until the turkey is crumbly and no longer pink not only enhances their flavor but also ensures everything melds perfectly later on. After cooking, drain any excess fat before moving on.

Step 2: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Transfer your cooked turkey and onions into your slow cooker. Now it’s time to stir in all those wonderful remaining ingredients: diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Mixing them well will allow all those flavors to blend beautifully while they cook.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Set your crockpot to low heat and cover it up! Let it simmer for about 3 hours. This patience will be rewarded as all those delightful aromas fill your kitchen and create an irresistible atmosphere for dinner time.

And there you have it! Your very own Crockpot Pumpkin Chili ready to warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every spoonful of this fall favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you create the most delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili possible!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, herbs, and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili. They add a vibrant taste that canned or dried alternatives cannot replicate.
Customize the beans: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of beans! Using a variety like kidney beans or pinto beans along with black and chili beans adds texture and depth to your dish.
Adjust the spice level: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Adjusting the spice level allows you to tailor the chili to your taste preferences.
Add more veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider tossing in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. These veggies complement the pumpkin beautifully and bring extra color to your bowl.
Let it sit: If you have time, let the chili rest for an hour after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in an even tastier dish!

How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Presenting your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to serve this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a lovely burst of flavor and color.
Sour cream alternative: Use a dairy-free sour cream for a creamy contrast that complements the spiciness.
Shredded cheese alternative: Dairy-free cheese shreds can add an enjoyable meltiness and richness on top.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili goodness. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with the spices in your pumpkin chili.
Avocado salad: A refreshing avocado salad with lime dressing provides a cool contrast to the warm chili. The creaminess of avocado balances out the dish nicely.
Vegetable sticks with hummus: Crisp vegetable sticks such as carrots or celery served with hummus make for a crunchy side that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Quinoa or rice: Serving chili over quinoa or brown rice adds an extra layer of nutrition while giving you a wholesome meal that’s filling and comforting.

Enjoy making this delightful Crockpot Pumpkin Chili! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze it for later. Here’s how to store your delicious leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Leave some space at the top of the containers as chili may expand when frozen.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating if frozen.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a lid, and heat in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this wonderful recipe!

Can I make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace ground turkey with plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does Crockpot Pumpkin Chili take to cook?

This comforting dish takes about 3 hours on low heat in the crockpot, making it a great option for busy days!

What can I add to my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili for extra flavor?

You can toss in more veggies like bell peppers or corn, or add fresh herbs such as cilantro for a pop of freshness!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If you have fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then puree it for that homemade touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Crockpot Pumpkin Chili! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavors that celebrate the season. Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience – I would love to hear how yours turns out!