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Pumpkin Chili

Cozy Pumpkin Chili for Heartwarming Fall Nights

A delicious Pumpkin Chili that's hearty, comforting, and perfect for fall evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
  • 1 lb Ground Spicy Italian Sausage Substitute with ground turkey or meat alternative for a leaner option.
  • 1 Onion, chopped Yellow or red onions can be used interchangeably.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped Green bell peppers can be substituted for a bolder taste.
  • 3 Garlic Cloves, chopped Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
For the Spices
  • 2 tsp Ground Cumin Fennel seed can be an alternative.
  • 1.5 tbsp Chili Powder Increase for more heat or use smoked chili powder for a deeper flavor.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Enhance flavor, sea salt can also be used.
  • 0.75 tsp Ground Black Pepper Freshly cracked pepper intensifies flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon Nutmeg can be a different choice for a similar aromatic profile.
For the Chili
  • 2 cans Fire-Roasted Tomatoes, not drained 15 oz each.
  • 1 can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed Any other beans like pinto or black beans can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 can Black Beans, drained and rinsed Similar to kidney beans.
  • 1 can Pumpkin Puree 15 oz; fresh roasted pumpkin can also work.
  • 2.5 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan option.
For Garnishes
  • Roasted Pumpkin Seeds For added crunch.
  • Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be a healthy alternative.
  • Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • Avocado Can substitute with guacamole for extra flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 pound of ground spicy Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 10–12 minutes until they soften. Stir occasionally for added sweetness.
  3. Stir in 3 chopped garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 ½ tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Gently fold in 2 cans of fire-roasted tomatoes, 1 can each of drained kidney and black beans, and 1 can of pumpkin puree. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot.
  5. Pour in 2 ½ cups of chicken broth, stirring to blend. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Check for seasoning and adjust if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with roasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream, cheddar cheese, or avocado as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Allow the chili to sit for a day in the fridge before serving for enhanced flavors. Portion into airtight containers for freezing; it keeps for up to three months.

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