If you’re looking for a cozy meal that fills your home with the warm aromas of fall, then this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is just what you need! This recipe is a family favorite in my house, and I bet it will become one in yours too. It’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights or perfect for gathering friends and family around the table during chilly evenings. Plus, the combination of pumpkin and spices gives it a unique twist that makes it stand out from your regular chili.

The best part? Your slow cooker does all the hard work while you kick back and relax. Let’s dive into why this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is sure to warm your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super simple: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly for an effortless dinner.
Family-friendly: Kids love the slight sweetness from the pumpkin and brown sugar, making it a hit with everyone!
Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in the morning, set your crockpot, and come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Packed with flavor: The blend of pumpkin pie spice and chili powder creates a delightful mix that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Pumpkin Chili:

For the Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 onion (chopped)

For the Chili

14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (canned)
15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned)
15 oz. chili beans (canned)
15 oz. black beans (canned or home cooked)

For Flavor

3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to match your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Use lean ground beef or chicken instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
Add some heat: If you like spicy food, toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Go vegan: Replace ground turkey with lentils or extra beans for a hearty plant-based option.
Mix in veggies: Stir in bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

How to Make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Cook the Turkey and Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add in your ground turkey along with the chopped onion. Cooking them until the turkey is crumbly and no longer pink helps develop rich flavors right at the beginning. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward!

Step 2: Combine Everything

Next, transfer your cooked turkey and onions into your slow cooker. Now comes the fun part—stirring in all those delicious ingredients! Add in diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chili beans, black beans, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and chili powder. Make sure everything is well mixed; this will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crock pot to low heat and cover it up tight. Let it cook for about 3 hours—this is where all those lovely flavors meld together beautifully. The smell wafting through your home will be simply irresistible!

With these steps complete, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Crockpot Pumpkin Chili ready to enjoy! Serve with some crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will adore. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Making the perfect Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is all about a few key techniques that elevate the flavors and make cooking effortless. Here are some pro tips to help you create a deliciously cozy meal!

Sauté your veggies: Before adding them to the crockpot, sautéing the onions and ground turkey enhances their flavors, giving your chili a deeper taste.
Use fresh spices: If you have whole spices, consider grinding them fresh. It might seem like an extra step, but freshly ground spices can significantly boost the aroma and flavor profile of your chili.
Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar. A little more or less can customize the heat and sweetness balance perfectly for your palate.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing your chili to sit for 15-30 minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together even more, making every bite delightful.
Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans or even add some lentils for variety! Each type brings its unique texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

How to Serve Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Serving your Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is just as important as cooking it. The presentation can turn a simple meal into something special, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that perfectly complements the hearty chili.
Avocado slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture that balances the spicy notes of the chili.
Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that elevates each spoonful.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: Moist and buttery cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious chili flavors and adds a comforting touch.
Green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
Quinoa: Nutty quinoa is not only nutritious but also serves as a great base to scoop up your pumpkin chili while adding extra protein.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide texture and are perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of chili!

Enjoy this cozy meal on chilly days and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, healthy meals throughout the week. You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the chili cool down completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I make Crockpot Pumpkin Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground turkey with your favorite plant-based protein or 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, this chili will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it as leftovers or meal prep!

What can I serve with Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. You can also top it with avocado slices or dairy-free cheese for extra flavor!

Can I adjust the spices in my Crockpot Pumpkin Chili?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice and chili powder according to your taste preferences. Add more heat with cayenne pepper or keep it mild based on your family’s preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this cozy Crockpot Pumpkin Chili! It’s a delightful way to embrace fall flavors while providing warmth and nourishment. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll create wonderful memories around this dish. Happy cooking!