Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili: A Cozy Fall Favorite

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As the leaves turn gold and the air becomes crisp, there's one dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall: Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili. This savory and slightly sweet chili combines the wholesome flavors of ground turkey and creamy pumpkin, bringing warmth to any chilly evening. A comforting bowl of this chili is like a hug from home, filled with seasonal vegetables, tender turkey, and a hint of sweetness from the pumpkin and honey.

A Fall Favorite with a Twist

This recipe takes traditional chili and gives it a delightful autumn twist by adding pumpkin puree, giving the dish an extra layer of creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and earthy beans. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel cozy from the inside out, and it’s perfect for using up any leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. Whether you're cooking it fresh or repurposing holiday leftovers, this chili offers a flavorful escape from the ordinary.

The vibrant mix of carrots, celery, and onions brings a fresh, hearty crunch, while spinach and thyme add an extra depth of flavor. The blend of navy and cannellini beans ensures a rich texture, making each spoonful satisfying. And to finish it off, a dollop of sour cream stirred in at the end creates a velvety smoothness that ties everything together.

Recipe: Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey or leftover Thanksgiving turkey
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 15 oz pumpkin puree
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 15 oz navy beans, drained
• 15 oz cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
• 2 tablespoons sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the celery and cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Add the diced onions and cook until the onions turn translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. If you're using ground turkey, add it now and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart as it browns (about 8-10 minutes). If using leftover cooked turkey, skip this step and add it later.
6. Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, navy beans, cannellini beans, and chicken broth.
7. Add the chopped spinach, fresh thyme, chili powder, and your choice of sugar or honey.
8. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once everything is heated through and the flavors have blended, stir in the sour cream for added creaminess.
10. Remove from heat, taste, and add salt as needed.
11. Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy its warmth and comforting flavors.

A Cozy Meal for Chilly Evenings

Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the season. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or enjoy a quiet bowl on your own, this dish brings the coziness of fall to your kitchen. The combination of tender turkey, creamy pumpkin, and the hearty beans creates a satisfying experience with every bite. Plus, it’s a healthy way to celebrate the harvest season, packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein.

So, as the weather cools and you crave something warm and hearty, this Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is the perfect go-to recipe. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit with your family.

The Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is a delightful fall recipe that combines the heartiness of turkey with the smooth, subtle sweetness of pumpkin. It's the perfect dish to warm up those cooler evenings. This chili balances savory and sweet flavors, featuring ground turkey (or leftover Thanksgiving turkey), nutritious beans, and the comforting touch of pumpkin puree. The addition of fresh vegetables like spinach and a medley of beans makes it both filling and wholesome. To top it off, a spoonful of sour cream adds a creamy finish that ties all the flavors together.

How to Prepare: Start by sautéing the vegetables (carrots, celery, and onions) in butter. Afterward, brown the turkey (or add cooked turkey) and mix in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, beans, and seasonings like fresh thyme and chili powder. Let it simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, and then stir in sour cream at the end to give it a rich texture.

The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for various dietary preferences, and you can customize it by adjusting the spices or beans based on what you have on hand. Many versions of this recipe also suggest topping the chili with fresh cilantro, avocado, or shredded cheese for added flavor​(Allrecipes)​(Mighty Mrs | Super Easy Recipes).

Enjoy this comforting, nutritious dish as part of your autumn meal rotation!