If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal to enjoy during those crisp fall evenings, then this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is just the thing! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home because it’s both hearty and vibrant, perfect for serving to family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili warms the soul and brings everyone together. Plus, cooking it in the crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making your day just a little easier!

The blend of pumpkin and spices gives this chili a unique twist that makes it stand out from the crowd. You’ll love how easy it is to put together and how deliciously fragrant your kitchen will smell as it cooks. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With just a bit of chopping and sautéing, this recipe comes together easily. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and relax!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory flavors of this chili. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, beans, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that warms you from the inside out—perfect for fall!
Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are simple and easy to find. You can even customize them based on what you have at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a lot of flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

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! Here are some tasty variations to switch things up:

Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even quinoa for a vegetarian option that still packs protein.
Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch!
Top it off: Serve with your favorite toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese alternatives, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Onions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add ground turkey and chopped onion. Cook until the turkey is crumbly and no longer pink; draining any fat afterward is essential for keeping your chili light while still flavorful.

Step 2: Combine Everything in the Crockpot

Transfer your cooked turkey and onions into your slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients: diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Stir well so everything is nicely blended.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Set your crockpot to low heat and cover it up! Let it cook for about 3 hours. The magic happens here as all those wonderful flavors meld together into something truly delightful.

And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Crockpot Pumpkin Chili that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Making the perfect Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you get the most out of your cooking adventure!

Sauté before slow cooking: Searing the ground turkey and onions enhances their flavors, providing a deeper taste profile for your chili. It also adds a lovely texture that makes every bite enjoyable.
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantity of pumpkin pie spice and chili powder based on your heat preference. A little extra spice can bring out the warmth and complexity of this dish!
Use quality canned ingredients: Opt for high-quality diced tomatoes and beans. This can make a significant difference in flavor, ensuring your chili tastes fresh and vibrant.
Let it rest: After cooking, let your chili sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive dish.
Make it ahead: This chili actually gets better with time! Prepare it the day before serving; flavors deepen and develop overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Serving up your delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this cozy dish that will surely impress family and friends.

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the chili.
Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness and provides a lovely texture contrast.
Crushed tortilla chips: Adding some crunch with tortilla chips not only looks appealing but enhances each bite with additional flavor.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of chili. Its buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the spices in your dish.
Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chili.
Rice or quinoa: Serving your chili over cooked rice or quinoa can transform it into a hearty meal while adding fiber and nutrients.
Stuffed bell peppers: These colorful veggies can be stuffed with leftover chili for an exciting twist that elevates leftovers to new heights.

Enjoy crafting this recipe and feel free to explore these serving suggestions to create a hearty meal that warms both body and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves time during busy weeks, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when enjoyed later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Leave some space at the top of containers or bags for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, microwave in a safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili without meat?

Absolutely! You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the ground turkey and adding more beans or even some quinoa for added protein.

How long does Crockpot Pumpkin Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili will last up to 4 days in the fridge. Enjoy it throughout the week!

What can I serve with Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

Crockpot Pumpkin Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or cilantro!

Can I add more spices to my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Add more chili powder for heat or cumin for depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy and flavorful Crockpot Pumpkin Chili as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to warm up on a chilly day while savoring all those delicious fall flavors. Don’t hesitate to make extra so you can enjoy it throughout the week or share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!