Pumpkin Chili is a cozy fall dinner made with ground beef, pumpkin puree, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices. The pumpkin adds subtle sweetness and richness while blending perfectly with the smoky chili flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect for fall: Pumpkin and warm spices make this chili ideal for chilly evenings.
- Hearty and filling: Ground beef and beans make it satisfying.
- Easy one-pot meal: Everything cooks together in one pot.
- Great for meal prep: The flavors become even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional
How to Make Pumpkin Chili
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the pumpkin and tomatoes: Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
- Add beans and seasonings: Add the kidney beans, black beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust the seasonings. If the chili is too thick, add a little more broth. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Chili
- Use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Add extra cayenne or chili powder for more heat.
- Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Chili is an easy and flavorful fall meal that combines classic chili ingredients with creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices. Serve it with cheese, sour cream, or crunchy tortilla chips for a comforting dinner.
