If you’re craving a cozy, hearty dish that bursts with comforting flavors and a hint of seasonal warmth, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili. It’s the perfect marriage of lean ground turkey, rich pumpkin puree, and classic chili spices that come together slowly in your crockpot for a smooth, flavorful chili experience. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, this recipe delivers a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and smoky notes that will make your kitchen smell incredible and your taste buds sing.

Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can gather them easily, yet each one plays a crucial role in making this chili uniquely delicious.

Ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the chili hearty without heaviness, and browns beautifully with onions.
Pumpkin puree: Adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture while giving the chili a gorgeous autumnal color.
Black beans: Provide a lovely earthiness and hearty texture, plus a great source of fiber and protein.
Diced tomatoes: Bring juicy acidity that brightens the whole dish and enhances all the spices.
Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the turkey.
Garlic: Infuses the chili with that essential savory punch that lingers in every bite.
Chili powder: The star spice, offering warmth and a subtle kick that defines the chili’s bold flavor.
Cinnamon: A surprising but perfect addition that complements the pumpkin and spices with gentle sweetness and warmth.
Salt and pepper: To elevate and balance all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Brown the Turkey and Onion

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey along with the chopped onion, cooking until the turkey is nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor foundation for your chili by caramelizing the onion and creating savory bits of turkey. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and transfer this flavorful mixture into your crockpot.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Next, open your cans of pumpkin puree, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Add them directly into the crockpot with the browned turkey and onions. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly combined. This blend of ingredients is where the magic begins to happen as all the flavors marry slowly during the cooking process.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crockpot to cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for about 4 hours if you’re short on time. During this long, slow cooking time, the turkey becomes tender and the spices infuse every ingredient, while the pumpkin lends natural creaminess. You’ll want to just let it be and fill your home with the tempting aromas as it simmers gently.

How to Serve Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili

Garnishes

A dollop of sour cream on top adds a cooling tang that beautifully contrasts the warm spices. Fresh cilantro sprinkled over the chili adds a bright, herbal freshness that lifts each bite. You can also include shredded cheese, diced avocado, or even a squeeze of lime juice for extra layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with simple baked cornbread or warm tortilla chips that let you scoop every last bit from the bowl. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the hearty, cozy chilli perfectly for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili in a hollowed-out pumpkin bowl for seasonal flair. You can also spoon it over cooked rice or quinoa for a filling twist or top it with crunchy corn fritters to add delightful texture contrasts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day, making leftovers just as good — if not better — than the initial meal.

Freezing

Looking to save some for later? Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal to pull out on busy nights.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short increments and stirring between to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey in this chili?

Absolutely! Ground beef will add a richer, heartier flavor, but keep in mind it’s fattier than turkey so you might want to drain more fat after browning.

Is the pumpkin puree flavor very strong? Will kids like this chili?

The pumpkin puree adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess but it’s not overpowering at all. Most kids won’t even notice it, especially with the chili spices balancing it out.

Can I make this Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Brown the turkey and onions using the sauté function, then add all the other ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes.

What if I don’t have cinnamon? Can I skip it?

While cinnamon adds a lovely warmth, you can leave it out if you prefer. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can be a nice substitute too.

How spicy is this chili? Can I adjust the heat?

This recipe is mild and warming, but you can easily add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want it spicier to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about coming home to a Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple to prepare, wholesome, and packed with unforgettable flavors that make it a standout in any chilly season. Trust me, once you try this cozy recipe, it will become a treasured favorite in your meal rotation. So grab your crockpot and give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!