Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Table of Contents

Something magical about chilly evenings spent in the kitchen, and nothing quite captures that whimsical vibe than my Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili. One evening last autumn, as the leaves turned crinkly golden-browns and my kitchen filled with the aromas of warming spices, I stumbled upon this delightful combo. I mixed my usual chili fixings with the creamy goodness of pumpkin, and after a few bites, I knew we had a winner. The blend of savory turkey, sweet pumpkin, and wholesome white beans creates the coziest bowl of comfort imaginable. Trust me, you’ll love it just as much as I do—it’s rich, filling, and oh-so-satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients you can find in any pantry, you’ll spend more time celebrating than cooking!
• Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili will keep you feeling great without skimping on flavor.
• Full of Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin elevate this dish, enveloping you in a cozy hug with every single spoonful.
• Family-Friendly: This chili has the kind of flavors that both kids and adults rave about—perfect for cozy family dinners!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have hearty meals ready for busy days or surprise guests.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  Great for sautéing and adds a lovely richness to the chili’s base!

• 1 medium Onion (diced)
  Onions bring depth and sweetness to the dish as they cook down.

• 2 Carrots (peeled and chopped)
  Carrots give a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors!

• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  Garlic infuses the dish with a warm, savory essence that binds everything together.

• 1 tablespoon Ground Coriander
  This adds a lovely citrusy aroma and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.

• 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  Smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness that takes the chili to a whole new level.

• 1 teaspoon Cumin
  Cumin provides an earthy feel that warms you up with every bite!

• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
  A dash of pepper elevates the whole dish and enhances all those delicious flavors.

• 2 lbs Ground Turkey
  Lean and nutritious, turkey is the perfect hearty base for this chili.

• 2 tablespoons Thyme
  Thyme adds a lovely herby note that brightens up the dish so well!

• 1 teaspoon Salt
  Essential for balancing flavors; sprinkle away!

• 1 15-ounce can Pumpkin Puree
  Pure pumpkin purée provides creaminess while boosting nutrition!

• 2 15-ounce cans Cannellini Beans (drained)
  These beans add a wonderful creaminess and protein kick!

• 2 cups Chicken Broth
  A warm, flavorful broth is crucial to give your chili the perfect consistency.

• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  Finishing with cream gives an irresistible richness that you’ll adore.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Set Up Your Cozy Kitchen

Place a large stock-pot or a 4 or 5-quart Dutch Oven over medium-high heat and warm up those 3 tablespoons of olive oil. As it warms, you’ll start to smell that delicious aroma filling the air!

Sauté Your Veggies

Add the diced onion and chopped carrots, and let them sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften—this is where the magic begins! Stir occasionally, and enjoy the sweet smell that wafts through your cozy kitchen.

Embrace the Aromas

Now it’s time to add in the minced garlic, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Toss everything together and let it cook for one more minute. Don’t walk away! You want to capture those aromatic spices dancing together.

Brown the Turkey

Push the veggies to one side of the pot and add in 2 lbs of ground turkey. Use your wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns. You’ll want to cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes until there’s no pink left—this is where your pot will fill up with a savory scent.

Mix it All Together

Time to mix in the thyme, salt, pumpkin puree, cannellini beans, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Cover your pot with the lid slightly ajar and let all those flavors meld together for about 25 minutes. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself peeking in just to enjoy that cozy smell.

Finish with Creaminess

Finally, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. This is where it all comes together with that rich, velvety texture that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Allow your veggies to truly soften for that deep flavor!
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings to your liking—some spice lovers might want more heat!
• Use fresh herbs: If available, fresh thyme or even parsley can elevate your chili further.
• Let it rest: Flavors develop beautifully if you let your chili sit awhile before serving!

Flavor Variations

• Beans: Feel free to swap in black beans or kidney beans if you prefer!
• Spices: Kick it up a notch with some chili powder for an extra kick!
• Seasonal Twist: Try adding some diced sweet potatoes for a fall twist, or throw in some fresh spinach at the end for a green boost.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this warm bowlful with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for an added fill. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream can elevate each bowl beautifully! As for drinks, a crisp apple cider or a nice glass of red wine harmonizes well with the cozy vibes of this dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prepping ahead is a breeze! You can make this chili a day or two in advance—just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Enjoy it within 4-5 days for the best quality!

Leftovers

Don’t let those scrumptious leftovers go to waste! You can repurpose them by spooning them over nachos with cheese, or mix them into a flavorful pasta dish complete with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this delightful chili! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It lasts for about 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is either in a skillet over medium heat or in a pot on the stove. Of course, the microwave works too if you’re in a hurry—just be sure to stir halfway through to heat it evenly!

FAQs

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the turkey with a mix of additional beans or even lentils.

What if I don’t have ground turkey?
Feel free to substitute with ground chicken or even a plant-based ground meat alternative.

How spicy is this chili?
It’s mild, but you can easily customize the spice level to your liking by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, if you have fresh, roasted pumpkin, it’s a fantastic swap that will elevate your chili’s flavor!

Final Thoughts

There’s something so soul-soothing about a big pot of chili bubbling away on the stove, and my Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is a perfect fall companion. It’s a labor of love that brings family and friends together over warm, comforting bowls full of goodness. So grab your ingredients, turn on your favorite playlist, and create your own cozy kitchen atmosphere. You’ll be so glad you did! Happy cooking!