Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili: 7 Ingredients, 1 Cozy Meal

There’s something about the crisp air of autumn that makes you crave hearty, comforting meals—something that warms your soul, fills your kitchen with incredible smells, and leaves you feeling like you’ve just been wrapped in a cozy blanket. Enter Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili. This recipe is a perfect twist on your classic chili, full of rich fall flavors that will make you feel all the autumn vibes.

Whether you’re trying to get ahead on meal prep for a busy week or you want a dish that will impress your guests at a casual gathering, this chili is the answer. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with lean protein, fiber, and the nutritional goodness of pumpkin and white beans. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

• A Flavor Explosion: The rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin perfectly balances the savory spices and hearty turkey, creating a chili that’s anything but ordinary.
• Perfect for Fall: With pumpkin, cinnamon, and warming spices, this chili captures the essence of autumn in every spoonful—ideal for those cozy, crisp evenings.
• Healthy Yet Hearty: Packed with lean turkey, protein-rich white beans, and fiber-filled pumpkin, this chili is as nourishing as it is satisfying.
• Easy to Make: This one-pot wonder is simple, quick, and requires just a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
• Great for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner all week.
• Customizable: Want more heat? Add extra cayenne. Not a fan of corn? Skip it! This chili is as flexible as it is delicious, allowing you to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

How to Make Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics and Turkey
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened. You want them nice and translucent—this is where the flavor magic starts! Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant (because who doesn’t love the smell of garlic cooking?).

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 7-10 minutes, until browned, and then drain any excess grease. We’re going for lean and mean here, so no need for extra fat in the chili!

Season the turkey with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat), oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and cook for another minute to let those spices really get going. The spices are the secret to making this chili pop!

Step 2: Add Pumpkin, Beans, and Tomatoes
Now for the fun part—add in the pumpkin puree, great northern beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir it all together, letting the pumpkin’s creaminess come through. It’s not just for pies, folks!

Pour in the chicken broth, give it a good stir, and bring everything to a simmer. This is where the chili starts to come together and all those flavors mingle. You’ll want to stir occasionally, just to keep things from sticking.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together and the chili will thicken. (Pro tip: if you can let it go for an hour, do it—it really enhances the flavor!)

Add the frozen corn during the last 10 minutes of simmering. This adds a sweet crunch and extra texture, and trust me, it’s the perfect addition.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust
This is the time to taste and adjust your seasonings. You might need a pinch more salt or pepper, or maybe an extra sprinkle of chili powder. Remember, you’re the chef here, so make it just how you like it!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything’s done, ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional), and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended). Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Tips for Making the Best Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

• Don’t skimp on the spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key here. They give the chili that cozy, warming flavor that will have you reaching for seconds.
• Make it your own: This chili is super flexible. Add a little more heat with extra cayenne or swap out the beans for what you have on hand. It’s all about what works for you.
• Leftovers: This chili only gets better with time. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner for the next few days. It freezes beautifully, too!

FAQs About Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Wrap-Up: Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili—A Fall Classic You Can’t Miss

If you’ve been looking for the perfect chili to curl up with on a cool autumn night, this Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is it. It’s a warm, comforting dish with all the flavors you crave, and it’s so easy to make! From the lean turkey to the creamy pumpkin and hearty beans, this dish will quickly become a fall favorite.

So, grab your ingredients and start simmering up a pot of this cozy, flavor-packed chili. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to enjoy the magic of autumn in every bite.

Enhance Your Fall Feast with These Delicious Recipes

After enjoying the comforting flavors of Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili, why not keep the cozy vibes going with some more tasty dishes? Here are a few recipes that will complement your meal:

• If you’re in the mood for another hearty soup, try the Autumn Wild Rice Soup. It’s the perfect companion for any fall dinner.
• Pair your chili with a warm, savory Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread—perfect for dipping!
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for a delightful dessert that screams fall.
• Looking for something with a little more kick? Try the Cajun Chicken Soup for a spicy twist to round out your meal.

These dishes will keep the fall flavors flowing all week long and make your meals even more memorable!

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