Pumpkin Chili : 5-Ingredient Comfort Bowl

If fall had a flavor, it would be this Pumpkin Chili. Picture this: a chilly evening, leaves dancing outside your window, and a bowl of rich, spicy, slightly sweet chili warming your hands (and heart). Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting game night, or just need a comforting one-pot meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Now, before you raise an eyebrow—yes, pumpkin in chili might sound a little out there, but trust me, it’s pure magic. The pumpkin doesn’t make the dish taste sweet or “desserty.” Instead, it adds a velvety texture and a subtle depth that turns an ordinary chili into something extraordinary. This is the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your family ask for seconds (and thirds).

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chili

Let’s be honest—life is busy. Between work, errands, and figuring out what to feed everyone, weeknight dinners can feel like a chore. That’s why this Pumpkin Chili is such a lifesaver. It’s hearty, quick to make, and full of cozy fall flavors that don’t require hours in the kitchen.

Here’s why this recipe will win you over:

• Ready in just 45 minutes – because nobody wants to spend the whole evening cooking.
• Packed with flavor – smoky, spicy, slightly sweet, and savory in every bite.
• Nutritious comfort food – full of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the pumpkin and beans.
• Perfect for leftovers – it tastes even better the next day.

And let’s not forget: this chili freezes beautifully. Make a big batch, stash some away, and future-you will thank you when dinner’s magically already done.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand for your Pumpkin Chili masterpiece:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground spicy Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 ½ tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ¾ tsp ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 (15-oz.) cans fire-roasted tomatoes, not drained
• 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin puree
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth

Optional garnishes: roasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, avocado

How to Make Pumpkin Chili

This recipe is a simple, one-pot wonder. Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Brown the Sausage
   In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon.
2. Sauté the Veggies
   In the same pot (no need to wash it—those sausage bits are flavor gold!), add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 10–12 minutes, until softened and slightly golden.
3. Add the Aromatics and Spices
   Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and a hint of cinnamon. Let them bloom for about 30 seconds. Your kitchen will smell heavenly—don’t be surprised if someone wanders in asking, “What’s cooking?”
4. Build the Base
   Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, both beans, pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and your browned sausage. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Simmer the Magic
   Bring it all to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and Adjust
   Before serving, taste your chili and adjust salt or pepper to your liking. Want more heat? A pinch of cayenne will do the trick.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle that gorgeous pumpkin chili into bowls and top it off with your favorite garnishes—crunchy pumpkin seeds, a dollop of sour cream, melty cheddar, or creamy avocado slices.

Aneta’s Little Storytime

This Pumpkin Chili started as an experiment on one of those crisp autumn nights when I couldn’t decide between soup or chili (so naturally, I made both in one pot!). My kids were skeptical—until they took the first bite. Now, it’s become a family tradition every October. The best part? It’s just as good reheated for lunch the next day, if not better.

Helpful Tips for the Best Pumpkin Chili

• Don’t skip the cinnamon! It sounds unusual, but it adds a cozy warmth that balances the spice perfectly.
• Make it milder: If your crew isn’t into heat, use mild Italian sausage or swap it for ground turkey.
• Add veggies: Toss in corn, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for extra texture and color.
• Pumpkin puree only, please! Avoid pumpkin pie filling—it’s sweetened and spiced for desserts.
• Thicker chili? Simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to let it reduce.

And one more tip from my kitchen to yours: pair this chili with a slice of buttery cornbread or a warm baguette. Trust me, it’s a combo made in fall heaven.

FAQs About Pumpkin Chili

Bring the Magic to Your Table

There’s something truly comforting about a pot of Pumpkin Chili simmering on the stove—it fills your home with warmth, comfort, and the promise of a delicious meal. Whether you’re savoring it solo on a cozy night in or sharing it with friends around the table, this recipe is proof that a simple twist can turn an everyday dinner into something special.

So go ahead—grab that can of pumpkin and make some magic happen

More Cozy Fall Recipes You’ll Love

If this Pumpkin Chili made your heart (and kitchen) warm, you’ll adore these other comforting, fall-inspired dishes! Here are a few delicious internal linking opportunities to help readers explore more seasonal recipes across Chicken Magic Recipes:

• Cozy up with a bowl of Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup — it’s velvety, rich, and perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something soothing and full of flavor.
• Looking for another creative way to enjoy pumpkin? Try this Pumpkin and Mushroom Spaghetti — a fall-inspired pasta dish that blends earthy mushrooms with creamy pumpkin sauce.
• For a hearty, oven-baked comfort classic, don’t miss the French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole — it’s cheesy, cozy, and made for family dinners.
• Planning your holiday menu? This Crockpot Turkey Breast makes a tender, juicy centerpiece with minimal effort — a true time-saver for busy cooks.

Each of these recipes pairs beautifully with the comforting vibe of your Pumpkin Chili, making it easy to build a full fall feast straight from your kitchen. Keep the cozy going all season long!

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