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 rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a favorite for chilly evenings and busy weeknights. The best part? You can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you sip on something warm.

This recipe quickly became a go-to in my kitchen for family gatherings and casual dinners alike. There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin and spices that warms not just your belly but your heart as well. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into this delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to prepare: Just a little chopping and sautéing, and then let the crockpot do its magic!
Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this hearty chili packed with flavor.
Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just reheat leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner.
Deliciously satisfying: The combination of pumpkin, beans, and spices makes every bite comforting and fulfilling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili are simple and wholesome. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, making it easy to whip up this delightful dish anytime.

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

This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations that suit your taste buds:

Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
Spice it up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch.
Top it off: Garnish with avocado, cilantro, or dairy-free cheese for added flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add in the ground turkey along with chopped onions. This step is important because cooking them together allows the onions to soften and sweeten while also browning the turkey until it’s crumbly and no longer pink. Afterward, drain any excess fat before moving on!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Once your turkey and onions are ready, it’s time to transfer them to your slow cooker. Stir in all remaining ingredients—diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Make sure everything is well mixed; this ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Let It Cook

Set your crock pot to low heat and cover it up! Allow it to cook for 3 hours while the flavors meld beautifully together. It’s hard to beat that wonderful aroma wafting through your home as you wait—and trust me; it’s worth every minute!

Now you’re all set! Enjoy serving this delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili straight from the pot. Whether it’s a family meal or a cozy evening solo on the couch with some crusty bread—this dish is bound to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Creating a delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is easy, but these tips will elevate your dish to the next level!

Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance the flavor of your chili significantly. They provide a more vibrant taste compared to pre-ground versions.
Adjust the heat: If you like a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will give your chili an extra kick that’s perfect for those cool fall evenings.
Let it rest: After cooking, let your chili sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish.
Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on what you have on hand or prefer. Kidney beans or pinto beans can add variety and texture to your chili.
Add veggies: Incorporating bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can add color and nutrition. Plus, they make your chili even heartier!

How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Serving your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the hearty chili perfectly.
Sour cream alternative: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spices in the dish.
Shredded cheese substitute: Sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top for an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is a classic companion for chili. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory spices.
Rice: Serve the chili over cooked rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs all those amazing flavors while adding a comforting base.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun side. They’re perfect for scooping up that delicious chili and add an enjoyable crunch!
Garden salad: A light garden salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chili nicely, offering a refreshing contrast.

Now that you have everything you need to create an unforgettable Crockpot Pumpkin Chili experience, gather your ingredients and enjoy this warm, hearty dish with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a fantastic option for meal prep! This hearty dish not only tastes even better the next day, but it also makes a substantial batch, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Label your container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags.
Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best flavor and quality.

Reheating

Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
For microwaving, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Pumpkin Chili that might help you out!

Can I make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or simply add more beans and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.

How long does Crockpot Pumpkin Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili should last about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If you have access to fresh pumpkin, feel free to roast and puree it for this recipe. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without any added ingredients.

What sides go well with Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You could also enjoy it over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together flavors of fall while being easy enough for any night of the week. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!