Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

The Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate comfort food for those chilly fall evenings. This dish combines the warmth of spices with the creamy richness of pumpkin, creating a delightful meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep for the week, this chili is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, you’ll enjoy a delicious bowl of goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a depth of flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own, over rice, or with cornbread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and turkey, this chili provides protein and nutrients while being low in fat.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful Crockpot Pumpkin Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows you to set it and forget it, ensuring perfectly cooked chili every time.
• Skillet: Searing the turkey enhances its flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 onion (chopped)

For the Chili

• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (canned)
• 15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned)
• 15 oz. chili beans (canned)
• 15 oz. black beans (canned or home cooked)

For Flavoring

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Sauté Ground Turkey and Onions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground turkey and chopped onion once the oil is hot.
3. Cook until the turkey is crumbly and no longer pink; drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked turkey and onions to your slow cooker.
2. Stir in all remaining ingredients: diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder.
3. Mix everything well to combine.

Step 3: Cook Your Chili

1. Set your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Cover and let it cook for 3 hours to allow all flavors to meld together.

Enjoy this comforting Crockpot Pumpkin Chili as a satisfying meal anytime!

How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives offer a subtle onion flavor that complements the chili beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• White Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy white rice for a filling meal.
• Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, try quinoa which adds protein and texture.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy Topping: Use tortilla chips as a crunchy topping. They add fun texture and are perfect for scooping.
• Dipping Option: Serve the chili alongside tortilla chips for dipping during casual gatherings.

As a Stuffed Pepper Filling

• Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with leftover chili for a delicious stuffed pepper dish.
• Baking Tip: Bake in the oven until the peppers are tender for added flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

To ensure your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices; adjust the chili powder and pumpkin pie spice to match your taste preference.
• Texture Balance: For a chunkier chili, reserve some beans and mash them before mixing back in.
• Slow Cook Time: Allow enough cooking time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and vegetables when possible for enhanced flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet bread complements the savory flavors of the chili. Serve warm with butter.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chili.
3. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness; serve sliced or mashed on top of each bowl of chili.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and flavors that pair well with chili.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is great for dipping into the chili, adding both flavor and texture.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and zest, making it an excellent side option.
7. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a hearty twist on traditional toppings.
8. Cheese Quesadilla: A cheesy quesadilla can be cut into wedges for easy dipping into your flavorful chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Crockpot Pumpkin Chili. Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Many recipes recommend browning meat and onions before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances flavor, so don’t skip it.
• Overloading with Beans: While beans add protein, using too many can change the chili’s texture. Stick to recommended amounts for a balanced dish.
• Ignoring Spice Adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Be sure to taste your chili during cooking and adjust spices as needed for your preference.
• Not Using High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients lead to better flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and beans for the best results.
• Rushing Cooking Time: Chili benefits from slow cooking. Don’t be tempted to speed up the process, as it could affect the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili special?

This recipe combines traditional chili flavors with pumpkin, making it both hearty and unique. The pumpkin adds richness while keeping it light.

Can I customize the spices in my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Add more chili powder for heat or extra pumpkin pie spice for sweetness.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

Cook on low heat for about 3 hours. This allows all ingredients to meld beautifully together.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s cooked and pureed before adding it to the chili for consistency.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a delightful dish perfect for fall evenings. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients based on your cravings or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!

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Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up this fall with our comforting Crockpot Pumpkin Chili, a delightful blend of spices, pumpkin, and turkey that creates a hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make dish is not only packed with flavor but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep. Simply sauté your turkey and onions, add the rest of your ingredients to the slow cooker, and let it simmer while you enjoy your day. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, this chili will quickly become a favorite for anyone looking to cozy up with a bowl of goodness.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. Sauté ground turkey and chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until the turkey is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked mixture to a slow cooker and stir in diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder.
3. Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook for 3 hours.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg