If you’re craving a dish that’s cozy, nutritious, and bursting with unique flavors, let me introduce you to the Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili. This vibrant chili brings together tender ground turkey, creamy white beans, and the unexpected delight of pumpkin puree, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any chilly day. The perfect balance of smoky spices, hearty textures, and subtle sweetness transforms a classic chili into something truly special and memorable.

Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is all you need to craft this deeply satisfying Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili. Each element adds a vital layer of flavor, color, and texture that elevates this dish beyond your average chili.

Olive oil spray: Helps in sautéing ingredients without excess fat for a lighter chili.

2 lbs 99% lean ground turkey: Provides lean protein with a tender, mild flavor perfect for soaking up spices.
1/2 teaspoon olive oil: Adds richness for cooking aromatic vegetables.

1 small onion (chopped): Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the chili with robust, savory notes.

1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds warm, smoky heat; adjust to your liking.
2 bay leaves: Impart subtle herbal earthiness during simmering.
1 1/2 tbsp cumin: Gives the chili its distinctive, aromatic base flavor.

1 tsp oregano: Contributes a slightly peppery, herbal tone.
2 15 oz cans white northern or navy beans, rinsed and drained: Creamy beans offer hearty texture and soak up flavors beautifully.
15 oz can pumpkin puree: Adds natural sweetness and a luxurious, silky body.

4.5 oz can chopped green chile: Introduces a mild kick and bright green color.
2 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chili moist and infuses savory depth, with a careful choice ensuring gluten-free status if needed.
Kosher salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.

Chopped cilantro, red onion, or chives for topping: Fresh garnishes add pops of color and brightness.
Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream for topping (optional): Provides a cool, creamy contrast to the warm spices.

How to Make Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Brown the Turkey

Start by heating a large skillet over high heat and lightly spraying it with olive oil. Add your ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s completely white and no longer pink—this usually takes about five minutes. This browning process seals in the meat’s juices and creates a foundation of flavorful protein for your Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Next, add a bit more olive oil to the skillet and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these fragrant aromatics for three to four minutes until they soften and release their sweetness. Sprinkle in cumin and continue cooking for another minute. This step awakens the spices, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent that signals good things ahead.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the cooked turkey and sautéed onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed white beans, pumpkin puree, chopped green chiles, chicken broth, chili powder, oregano, and bay leaves. Give everything a gentle stir to combine all those bold, complementary flavors that make the Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili so unique.

Step 4: Slow Cooking Magic

Cover your slow cooker and cook the chili on high for about four hours or low for up to eight hours. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a thicker, richer chili that tastes like it’s been simmering for days.

Alternative: Instant Pot Method

If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot method is just as rewarding. After sautéing the turkey, onion, and garlic with spices using the “sauté” function, add all remaining ingredients to the pot. Seal and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then let the pressure naturally release. You get that deep flavor in a fraction of the time.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove your bay leaves, taste the chili, and add kosher salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance the flavors. This final seasoning step lets you customize the dish exactly to your preference, making this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili truly your own.

How to Serve Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Garnishes

The best Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili comes alive with fresh garnishes. A handful of chopped cilantro adds a refreshing brightness, while diced red onion or chives introduce a pleasant crunch and color contrast. For that creamy, cooling finish, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream is the perfect topper to soften spicy edges and add luscious texture.

Side Dishes

Want to round out your meal? Serve this chili alongside warm, crusty bread to mop up every delicious drop, or a scoop of fluffy rice to make it extra filling. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables add a crisp, fresh counterpoint to the hearty chili, balancing out the meal wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun dinners or casual entertaining, ladle your Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili into mini pumpkin bowls or bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation. You can also serve it over baked sweet potatoes for a comforting twist. Sprinkle crumbled cheese or crushed tortilla chips on top for that extra textural delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve all of the complex flavors and hearty texture. It’s a perfect option for ready-to-eat lunches or quick dinners during busy weekdays.

Freezing

You can also freeze the chili for up to three months without loss of flavor. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a convenient and comforting meal on demand.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chili gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave single servings in a microwave-safe bowl, uncovered, for one to two minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili has thickened too much in storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey in this chili?

Absolutely! Ground beef works well and gives a richer flavor, but using lean ground turkey keeps the dish lighter and is still delicious with all the spices and pumpkin.

Is pumpkin puree necessary in this recipe?

Yes, pumpkin puree is a key ingredient that adds moistness, natural sweetness, and a creamy texture that makes this chili stand out from traditional versions.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or add more beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version, though it won’t have quite the same savory base.

What kind of beans are best in Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili?

White northern or navy beans are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to soak up flavors, complementing the turkey and pumpkin perfectly.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! Start with the suggested chili powder and green chiles, then add more or less according to your heat preference. The chili is quite forgiving and easy to customize.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili delivers just that. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s packed with comfort, flavor, and nutrition. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own love for this cozy, colorful twist on chili.