Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is a fantastic dish for so many reasons. First, it’s packed with protein from the ground turkey and beans, making it a filling choice. Second, pumpkin adds a wonderful creaminess and a boost of nutrients, including fiber and vitamins. Third, this chili is very easy to make and can be a warm, comforting meal during chilly days. And let’s not forget that it’s all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chili is sure to please everyone.

How to Make Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Ingredients:

Here is what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot but not smoking.

2. Cook the Onion: Next, add the chopped onion. Cook it until softened, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add Garlic: Once the onions are ready, add the minced garlic and cook it for about another minute. You want it fragrant but not burned.

4. Brown the Turkey: Now, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes. If there’s any excess grease, drain it off.

5. Seasoning: Season the turkey mix with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, optional cayenne pepper, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir it well to combine everything, and cook for another minute to let the spices release their flavors.

6. Add Pumpkin and Beans: It’s time to add in the pumpkin puree, great northern beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes (including their juice). Stir everything together.

7. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring your mixture to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or for up to 1 hour if you have the time. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

8. Add Corn: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen corn. This gives it a nice sweetness and texture.

9. Final Taste Check: Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You may want a little more salt or spice, depending on your preference.

10. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls. You can garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, and serve lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Serving Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili can be as simple or as fancy as you like. This hearty chili makes a great main course, and it pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
• A side salad for a fresh balance.
• Tortilla chips for added crunch.
• Rice or quinoa if you want a more filling meal.

The garnishes make a big difference too! A sprinkle of cheese or a swirl of sour cream enhances the flavor even more. The lime wedges add a zesty touch, cutting through the richness nicely.

How to Store Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Storing your chili is easy! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the chili cool down to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.

2. Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers, and make sure to leave a little space at the top as chili can expand when frozen. Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Reheating: To reheat, you can warm it up in a pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. Alternatively, microwave portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tips to Make Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

1. Brown the Turkey Well: Ensure the turkey is browned well before adding the spices. This adds flavor and depth to your chili.

2. Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor. If they’ve been in your cupboard for a while, consider buying new ones.

3. Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preference. If you’re serving it to kids or sensitive palates, skip it altogether.

4. Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies to the mix! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can all complement the flavors nicely.

5. Don’t Skip the Garnishes: They really elevate the dish. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime add a lovely zing to the chili.

6. Make It a Day Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the day after it’s made. This gives the flavors a chance to meld.

Variation

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can modify it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with a meat alternative like lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• Spicy Version: For a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or more cayenne pepper.

• Different Beans: You can mix and match beans according to what you have on hand. Black beans or pinto beans are great alternatives.

• Add Different Vegetables: For more nutrients, try adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can definitely use ground chicken in place of ground turkey. It will work similarly, and you’ll still have a tasty chili.

Is pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, pumpkin puree is just pure pumpkin with no added sugar or spices. Pumpkin pie filling is sweetened and spiced, so make sure to choose the right one for this recipe.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! If you want to make it in a slow cooker, brown the turkey and onion first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours.

How can I make this chili dairy-free?

To make the chili dairy-free, simply skip the cheese and sour cream garnishes and use avocado instead for creaminess.

How long does it take to make this chili?

From start to finish, this chili takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you let it simmer. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just be cautious with the size of your pot, as you need sufficient space for the ingredients to mix and simmer properly.

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is a comfort food that is healthy, filling, and bursting with flavors. You can easily change it to match your tastes, making it a versatile go-to dish for any occasion! Whether you enjoy it on game day or as a cozy weeknight meal, you’ll find that this recipe quickly becomes a favorite.

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