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Ultimate Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Turkey and Black Beans

Close-up of a steaming white bowl filled with rich, meaty pumpkin chili topped with melted cheese and black beans.

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Make a satisfying dinner easily using your slow cooker for this hearty pumpkin chili. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings and requires minimal effort for a cozy fall favorite.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs ground turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the turkey. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
  5. Add the pumpkin puree, crushed tomatoes, rinsed beans, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Season the chili with salt and pepper.
  7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
  8. Taste the chili before serving and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with 1 pound of mushrooms and an extra can of mixed beans.
  • This chili freezes well for convenient meal prep; cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
  • Serve this hearty chili with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

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