As autumn leaves start to blanket the ground, I find myself reaching for cozy recipes that wrap me in warmth—like this Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili. The combination of lean turkey, creamy white beans, and the earthiness of pumpkin creates a nourishing dish that’s perfect for brisk evenings. What I love most about this recipe is its delightful balance of hearty satisfaction and healthy goodness, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings with friends. Plus, you can easily adapt it to fit your taste with different beans or spices! Curious to discover how this comforting chili can become your new fall favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Chili a Must-Try?

Hearty and Wholesome: This Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili delivers a nourishing bowl of goodness that warms the soul on chilly evenings.

Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with lean turkey and fiber-rich beans, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can feel good about serving.

Flavors that Shine: The unique blend of pumpkin and spices creates a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor profile perfect for the season.

Versatile Options: Easily customize with your choice of beans or spices; add chipotle for a smoky kick or swap turkey for vegetable options!

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve alongside cornbread or tortilla chips, and watch everyone come back for seconds! It’s a surefire hit, much like my Creamy Turkey Stroganoff Comfort or Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers.

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili Ingredients

For the Chili

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics.
Yellow Onion – Provides essential base flavor and sweetness; use white onion as a substitute.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with a savory aroma; fresh garlic is best for maximum impact.
Ground Turkey – The main protein source, lean and versatile; can substitute with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
Chili Powder – Adds warmth and spice, essential for chili flavor.
Cumin – Contributes a nutty, earthy base; no direct substitution without altering flavor.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a smoky depth; regular paprika works as a lighter alternative.
Cayenne Pepper – Optional heat element; adjust based on personal preference, or omit for no spice.
Dried Oregano – Offers herbaceous notes, and fresh oregano can be substituted but used in larger quantities.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.

For the Base

Pumpkin Puree – Provides creaminess and a natural sweetness; do not confuse with pumpkin pie filling.
Great Northern Beans – Contributes creaminess and fiber; substitute with other white beans if necessary.
Cannellini Beans – Adds texture and additional protein; other varieties can also be used.
Diced Tomatoes – Provides acidity and moisture; fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred.
Chicken Broth – Base for the chili to absorb flavors; vegetable broth can replace it for a vegetarian version.
Frozen Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh corn can be used if in season.

For Serving

Fresh Cilantro – Garnish that adds brightness and is optional based on taste preferences.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess when serving; an optional garnish.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Classic topping for chili; optional for additional richness.
Lime Wedges – Serves as a fresh citrus accent when serving; optional.

This Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is sure to be a staple in your autumn recipe collection! Enjoy every warm spoonful with family and friends.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow it to warm for about 1-2 minutes until shimmering, which indicates it’s ready for the aromatics. This olive oil will add a rich foundation for your Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili and help sauté the vegetables evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add a finely chopped yellow onion to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once you achieve that fragrant sweetness, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic is golden and aromatic.

Step 3: Brown the Turkey
Incorporate 1 pound of ground turkey into the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the turkey for about 7-10 minutes until no longer pink, ensuring it has a lovely golden hue. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili lean, then continue to enhance the flavors with the seasonings.

Step 4: Season the Turkey
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and optionally, cayenne pepper for extra heat. Also add 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and ground cinnamon, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and mingle with the turkey.

Step 5: Add the Base Ingredients
Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 can of great northern beans, 1 can of cannellini beans, and 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well, ensuring the beans and pumpkin are evenly distributed. This forms the creamy, hearty backbone of your Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili.

Step 6: Pour in the Broth
Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Add the Corn
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of frozen corn, which will add a touch of sweetness and texture to your chili. Continue to simmer uncovered for those final minutes, letting the corn cook through while soaking up the delicious essence of the Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference. This step is crucial to enhance the flavors further and ensure your Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is truly delightful.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm chili into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing citrus twist to complement the comforting flavors of your cozy dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the onions, garlic, and any other vegetables up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can brown the ground turkey and sauté the aromatics, then refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before adding the remaining ingredients. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the turkey mixture to the pot, incorporate the rest of the components, and simmer as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal warming on your stove with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Fridge: Store leftover Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: This hearty chili freezes beautifully! Transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, where it will last for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave’s defrost setting.

Reheating: Gently reheat the thawed chili in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and steaming to maintain its creamy texture.

Tips for the Best Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Perfect Texture: For a thick and creamy chili, ensure your pumpkin puree is smooth, and use dried beans that are fully cooked for optimal texture.
Spice it Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Start with a little and increase gradually—this will help avoid an overly spicy dish!
Vegetarian-Friendly: To make a delicious vegetarian Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili, simply replace the turkey with more beans or roasted vegetables, and switch to vegetable broth.
Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, brown the turkey and onions, then transfer to a slow cooker with other ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Flavor Boosting: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or smoked paprika alongside the spices—this will elevate your chili to new savory heights!
Chili Essentials: Ensure you’re using genuine pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your cozy chili.

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this comforting dish to suit your taste buds!

Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with extra beans or vegetables and use vegetable broth for a delightful meat-free version. This swap doesn’t compromise on the hearty richness!
Beans Galore: Swap out great northern or cannellini beans for kidney or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor. Each bean offers its unique touch to the chili!
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked sausage or diced chipotle peppers to introduce a smoky dimension that elevates the whole pot. They bring a delightful kick that pairs well with pumpkin!
Hearty Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach or kale to pack in more vitamins and brighten the dish. They wilt beautifully and add a lovely color contrast!
Creamy Twist: For a silkier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. This enriches the chili and adds a delightful creaminess!
Sweet Spice: Enhance with a pinch of brown sugar or maple syrup to balance out the savory flavors, especially if you love a touch of sweetness in your chili.
Zesty Kick: Garnish with diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to turn up the heat. It’s the perfect way to spice up your bowl on a chilly evening!
Flavorful Variations: Explore international flavors by adding curry powder or ginger for an exotic twist, transporting your taste buds to another corner of the world!

Enjoy discovering the endless possibilities with this Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili! For more cozy recipes, try my Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells or the comforting Cranberry Turkey Grilled Cheese.

What to Serve with Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

As the autumn chill settles in, pair this comforting chili with delightful sides that enhance its rich flavors and warm your heart.

Cornbread: The sweet, buttery taste of cornbread is the perfect accompaniment, soaking up the chili and adding a delightful contrast.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, they provide a fun texture; perfect for scooping up spoonfuls of chili for an interactive dining experience!
Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, green salad with seasonal veggies adds brightness and freshness, balancing the hearty chili with invigorating flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: The mild, earthy flavor of steamed broccoli complements the chili nicely while providing a wholesome, healthy touch to the meal.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread offers a satisfying bite that perfectly pairs with the spices in the chili.
Apple Cider: This warm or chilled drink highlights the fall theme and provides a sweet contrast to the savory chili.
Chocolate Chip Muffins: For a sweet ending, serve warm muffins as dessert; their chocolatey goodness rounds out the meal with a cozy finish.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens every bowl, enhancing the chili’s flavors while adding a refreshing citrus note to the mix.

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for this chili?
I recommend using canned pumpkin puree for convenience and consistency in flavor and texture. If using fresh pumpkin, choose a smaller variety like sugar pumpkin. Look for smooth skin, and avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. The pumpkin should feel firm and dense, which indicates ripeness.

What are the best storage methods for leftover chili?
Store your leftover Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for meal prep! When reheating, just warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes wonderfully. Pour your cooled chili into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Before serving, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.

What if my chili is too thick or too thin?
If your chili comes out too thick, you can add a bit of chicken or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in slowly and heat for an additional 5-10 minutes. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while longer until it thickens, or stir in a slurry made of cornmeal and water.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For allergies, ensure that none of your guests are sensitive to ingredients like beans or dairy if you’re using cheese or sour cream. To make it gluten-free, just be cautious with any broth you select. If you have vegetarian or vegan friends, simply substitute the turkey with extra beans or roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.

How do I make this dish kid-friendly?
To make this Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili more appealing to kids, consider reducing the spices, especially cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with fun toppings like tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or dollops of sour cream on the side. Kids love being able to customize their bowls!