What does pumpkin add to Pumpkin Chili?

Pumpkin brings a rich, velvety texture and mild sweetness that balances the spices in Pumpkin Chili. It also boosts nutrition without overpowering the classic chili taste.

How spicy is Pumpkin Chili?

Pumpkin Chili is mildly spicy, but you control the heat with your spice blend. Add more chili powder, cayenne, or fresh peppers to dial up the fire. For more ideas, check out our guide on Pumpkin Pie Crisp Recipe.

Can I make Pumpkin Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the meat and use extra beans or add lentils for protein. Pumpkin Chili is endlessly adaptable to various diets.

Is Pumpkin Chili freezer-friendly?

Yes, Pumpkin Chili freezes beautifully. Store cooled portions in freezer bags or containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Do kids like Pumpkin Chili?

Kids usually enjoy Pumpkin Chili because it’s creamy and just a little sweet. Add toppings like cheese or tortilla strips for extra kid appeal.

When is the best time to serve Pumpkin Chili?

Pumpkin Chili shines during fall and winter, but it’s crowd-pleasing at any time of year—especially at gatherings or game nights.

Where can I find pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Chili?

You’ll find canned pumpkin puree in most grocery stores, especially in autumn. Always choose plain puree for Pumpkin Chili, not pumpkin pie filling.

Ultimate Pumpkin Chili: 7 Delicious Secrets

Name: Ultimate Pumpkin Chili: 7 Delicious Secrets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, pork, or plant-based substitute); 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with liquid); 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 2–3 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional); 1–2 teaspoons salt, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup low-sodium broth or water (adjust for desired thickness); Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado, tortilla strips

Ultimate Pumpkin Chili: 7 Delicious Secrets

Print Recipe

Pumpkin Chili is a cozy, hearty, and nutritious twist on classic chili—perfect for fall and winter meals, game days, or weeknight dinners. Loaded with beans, spices, and pumpkin puree for a rich, flavorful bowl.

Author: Julia Monroe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef (or turkey, pork, or plant-based substitute)

1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with liquid)

1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

2–3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

1–2 teaspoons salt, to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup low-sodium broth or water (adjust for desired thickness)

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado, tortilla strips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped bell pepper. Sauté 4–5 minutes until soft.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

3. Drain excess fat. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.

4. Add diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, beans, brown sugar (if using), and broth. Stir to combine.

5. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add more chili powder or salt as desired.

7. Serve hot with favorite toppings. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Notes

Use only pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for best results.

Customize with ground turkey, lentils, or go vegetarian by skipping the meat.

Tastes even better the next day—ideal for meal prep.

Add more broth if chili becomes too thick after storing.

Garnish with cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips for extra flavor and texture.

Find it online: https://www.musttryrecipe.com/pumpkin-chili/