Cozy Pumpkin Chili That Feels Like a Hug in a Bowl

Okay, hear me out. Pumpkin… in chili? I know, I know. It sounds a little wild. But babe, once you try this, you’ll never go back to your old chili routine. This pumpkin chili is cozy, hearty, and secretly healthy — the kind of dish that makes you wanna curl up under a blanket with fuzzy socks and a big spoon.

The pumpkin doesn’t make it taste “pumpkin-y” like pie. Nope. It adds this creamy, slightly sweet depth that balances out the smoky spices and savory beans. It’s warm, comforting, and basically autumn in a pot. Whoa, I made this?! Yes girl, yes you did.

Why I Love This Pumpkin Chili Recipe

First, it’s a one-pot wonder. Less dishes = more cozy couch time.

Second, it’s protein-packed and veggie-loaded, but still tastes like comfort food. You know that rare combo where your taste buds are dancing but your body’s also like, “Thanks, bestie”? Yeah, that.

And third? It’s flexible. You can make it spicy, mild, thick, chunky, vegan, meaty — whatever your vibe is. This is one of those recipes that’s forgiving, like the chill friend who’s always down for anything.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pumpkin Chili Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken if that’s your style)
2 cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken or veggie broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt + pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella
Sliced avocado
Fresh cilantro
A squeeze of lime
Tortilla chips for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start with the Base

Heat olive oil in a big ol’ pot over medium heat. Toss in your onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until everything smells amazing and looks a little softened.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef (or turkey/chicken). Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This is where the savory vibes start building.

Step 3: Bring in the Pumpkin Magic

Stir in the pumpkin puree. Don’t panic — your pot will look like you just made baby food. Trust the process.

Step 4: Add the Beans & Tomatoes

Dump in the black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir until everything looks hearty and colorful.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste the air. Does it smell like fall yet?

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in broth, bring it all to a boil, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This is where the flavors marry and live happily ever after. Stir occasionally, dance in your kitchen, maybe sneak a taste.

Step 7: Serve & Top Like a Queen

Ladle that pumpkin chili into bowls, top with cheese, avocado, cilantro, or whatever makes your heart happy. Sit down, take a spoonful, and prepare for cozy vibes overload.

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin puree, not pie filling: I beg you, check the can. We don’t want cinnamon-sugar vibes here.
Thicker chili? Let it simmer longer so the liquid reduces.
Want more heat? Add cayenne or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the veggies.
Meal prep queen: This chili tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.

Variations You’ll Love

Vegan Pumpkin Chili: Skip the meat and use lentils or extra beans. Still hearty, still delicious.
White Pumpkin Chili: Swap red beans/tomatoes for white beans and use chicken for a creamier twist.
Extra Cozy Version: Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk at the end for a creamy, slightly sweet vibe.
Kid-Friendly: Go lighter on the chili powder, serve with lots of cheese and tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin chili is cozy enough to stand alone, but if you’re feeling extra:

With Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread + chili = soulmate energy.
With Tortilla Chips: Scoop it up like a dip — messy but fun.
With Rice or Quinoa: Perfect for stretching leftovers.
With Sparkling Apple Cider: Because we’re going full autumn aesthetic here.

This pumpkin chili is more than just dinner. It’s comfort in a bowl, a little fall magic, and a total crowd-pleaser. Make it for your next cozy night in, meal prep it for the week, or whip it up for friends and watch them say, “Wait, pumpkin in chili?!” right before they ask for seconds.

So grab your pot, light a candle, and let this pumpkin chili give you all the cozy feels.

Love you long time,
Maria

Pumpkin Chili

A cozy, hearty, and slightly sweet twist on classic chili. This pumpkin chili blends smoky spices, savory beans, and creamy pumpkin puree for the ultimate fall comfort food. Perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 Bowls

Calories 320 kcal