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Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili: A Cozy Bowl of Fall Comfort

There are some recipes that instantly feel like a warm hug, and Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is one of them. When the air turns crisp and leaves crunch beneath your feet, nothing beats a hearty bowl of chili to warm you from the inside out. This version adds a seasonal twist with creamy pumpkin puree, making it not just cozy and filling but also nourishing and full of flavor.

Unlike traditional beef-based chili, this recipe uses lean ground turkey, which keeps things light while still delivering that rich, savory taste you crave. The pumpkin doesn’t overwhelm the dish with sweetness but instead adds creaminess, earthiness, and depth to the broth. Paired with beans, spices, and a touch of cream, you get a chili that’s perfect for fall gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even as part of a holiday spread.

What Is Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili?

Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is a fall-inspired chili recipe that combines lean ground turkey, white beans, and pumpkin puree with warming spices and a touch of cream. Unlike classic red chili, which often relies heavily on tomatoes and beef, this version has a creamy base that’s earthy, slightly sweet, and deeply savory thanks to garlic, onion, and chili spices.

this Recipe

The result is a dish that feels like the perfect marriage of comfort food and seasonal cooking. It’s filling enough for a main meal but balanced enough that you won’t feel weighed down.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

  • Fall in a bowl: Pumpkin adds a cozy, seasonal touch that makes this chili perfect for autumn.
  • Lean yet hearty: Turkey is lighter than beef but still satisfying.
  • Creamy without being heavy: Pumpkin puree and cream give richness without excess fat.
  • Easy one-pot recipe: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Great for family dinners, tailgates, or meal prep.

How Does It Taste?

This chili strikes a beautiful balance of flavors. The ground turkey provides savory richness, while the pumpkin adds a creamy, slightly nutty sweetness. The beans bring creaminess and texture, while the chili spices add just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the dish. A swirl of cream at the end ties everything together, making it silky and luscious.

Each bite is hearty, comforting, and subtly spiced, with just enough pumpkin flavor to remind you that this is a seasonal dish.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Not only is this chili delicious, it’s also packed with health benefits:

  • Turkey: A lean source of protein that’s lower in fat than beef.
  • Pumpkin: Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Beans: Add fiber and plant-based protein for satiety.
  • Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and garlic boost both flavor and nutrition.
  • Cream (or coconut milk): Adds a silky finish while balancing spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Substitutions & Additions

  • Use ground chicken instead of turkey.
  • Swap white beans for chickpeas or black beans.
  • Add jalapeños for spice.
  • Stir in kale or spinach at the end for extra greens.
  • Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice for brightness.

How to Make Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

  1. Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Stir in onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook until softened.
  3. Add spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables and turkey.
  4. Add pumpkin and beans: Stir in pumpkin puree, beans, and chicken broth. Mix until combined.
  5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Finish creamy: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Serve: Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

What to Serve With Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

  • Crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
  • A simple side salad for freshness.
  • Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans.
  • Tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa.
  • Pair with apple cider or a crisp white wine.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t rush the sautéing softening onions, garlic, and peppers builds flavor.
  • Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end; pumpkin can mellow spices.
  • For extra depth, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
  • Make it ahead of time chili always tastes even better the next day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using too much pumpkin, which can make it overly sweet.
  • Skipping the cream or coconut milk, which balances the spices.
  • Not draining beans extra liquid can water down the chili.
  • Cooking on high heat the whole time low simmering develops richer flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, stirring often. Add broth if needed to thin.
  • Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the pumpkin make the chili taste sweet? Not overly pumpkin adds earthiness and creaminess more than sweetness.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the turkey first, then add everything to the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in cream before serving.
Is this spicy? It’s mild as written, but you can increase chili powder or add hot sauce.
Can I meal prep this? Absolutely it reheats beautifully and makes great leftovers.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving, 6 servings)

  • Calories: 360
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Sugar: 6g

Conclusion

Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is everything you want in a fall comfort dish: hearty, flavorful, seasonal, and nourishing. It takes the familiar coziness of chili and elevates it with pumpkin’s creamy texture and autumnal flavor. Easy to make, versatile with toppings, and perfect for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly weeknight, serving it at a fall gathering, or making a big batch to freeze for later, this dish is guaranteed to warm hearts and bellies alike.

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Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili: A Cozy Bowl of Fall Comfort


  • Author: Melissa
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
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Description

A creamy, savory pumpkin chili made with ground turkey, white beans, and warming spices. Perfect for fall and winter comfort food.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground turkey

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 cans white beans, drained

1 can pumpkin puree

2 cups chicken broth

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk

Parsley or cilantro, for garnish


Instructions

1. Cook turkey in olive oil until browned.

2. Add onion, garlic, peppers, and carrots. Cook until softened.

3. Stir in spices and cook 1 minute.

4. Mix in pumpkin puree, beans, and broth. Bring to boil, then simmer 20–25 minutes.

5. Stir in cream or coconut milk. Adjust seasoning.

6. Garnish and serve hot.

Notes

Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk.

Add jalapeños or cayenne for spice.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex Inspired

Keywords: creamy turkey pumpkin chili, fall chili recipe, pumpkin chili with beans, healthy turkey chili, cozy fall dinner

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  • “Tried this recipe? Tag @MelissaRecipes — we’d love to see your creation!”

August 30, 2025 by Melissa

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