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Pumpkin Chili

Savory Pumpkin Chili: Your Ultimate Fall Comfort Bowl

This comforting Pumpkin Chili blends pumpkin puree with spicy Italian sausage for a cozy fall meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables.
  • 1 pound Ground spicy Italian sausage Provides meaty flavor and a delightful kick.
  • 1 Onion Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with shallots.
  • 1 Red bell pepper Contributes sweetness and texture.
  • 3 Garlic cloves Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is preferable.
Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Ground cumin Provides warmth and earthy flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili powder Key ingredient for classic chili flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances all flavors; add more to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper Adds a spicy kick.
  • 1 pinch Ground cinnamon Offers warmth and sweetness to balance flavors.
Chili
  • 1 can Fire-roasted tomatoes Adds brightness and acidity.
  • 1 can Kidney beans Contributes protein and fiber.
  • 1 can Black beans Adds texture and extra protein.
  • 1 can Pumpkin puree Thickens the chili and adds natural sweetness.
  • 2 cups Chicken broth Adds depth; substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian.
Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Roasted pumpkin seeds Add a delightful crunch.
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream Brings creaminess and balances spiciness.
  • 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar Offers richness and extra flavor.
  • 1 Avocado Provides freshness and creaminess.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked.
  2. In the same pot, add finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until softened and translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic cloves, ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and ground cinnamon. Cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add in fire-roasted tomatoes, drained kidney and black beans, pumpkin puree, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Consider stirring in maple syrup for sweetness.
  7. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and avocado.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This chili is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare in advance and simply warm it up on busy weeknights.

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