Pumpkin Chili is the cozy hug you never knew your taste buds needed. Picture a warm bowl filled with vibrant orange goodness, where sweet pumpkin meets hearty beans and spices that dance with joy on your palate. sweet potato chili recipe The aroma wafts through your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around, eager to share in this delightful experience.
As I ladled my first serving of Pumpkin Chili, I could almost hear my taste buds cheer. This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of chilly autumn days spent with loved ones, huddled together over steaming bowls of comfort food. pumpkin carrot soup Whether it’s a crisp fall evening or a festive gathering, this chili is guaranteed to warm not just your belly but also your soul. gluten free chicken noodle soup chicken wild rice soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pumpkin Chili is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests
- Its unique blend of flavors creates a deliciously comforting experience that’s visually appealing in its warm orange hue
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main or side dish at any gathering
I remember the first time I made this Pumpkin Chili; my friends could not stop raving about how tasty it was! For more inspiration, check out this pumpkin whipped feta dip recipe.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Pumpkin Puree: Look for 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor.
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Black Beans: Canned black beans save time; just rinse them well before adding.
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Kidney Beans: These add a hearty texture and are packed with protein.
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Onion: A sweet onion will caramelize beautifully and enhance the overall flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh cloves provide a fragrant aroma; don’t skimp on this one!
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Cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth to the chili; use ground cumin for best results.
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Chili Powder: Adjust according to your heat preference; feel free to spice things up!
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Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your chili.
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Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add sweetness and crunch; choose red, yellow, or green based on preference.
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Olive Oil: Use for sautéing vegetables until they’re perfectly tender and aromatic.
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Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional): A dollop adds creaminess and balances out the spices beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare for some kitchen magic—let’s whip up this Pumpkin Chili together!
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable as you go along.
Sauté Your Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Add Your Peppers and Spices: Toss in chopped bell peppers along with cumin and chili powder. Stir everything until you can smell those spices mingling delightfully.
Mix in Pumpkin and Beans: Pour in the pumpkin puree along with drained black beans and kidney beans. Stir until everything is mixed together nicely.
Pour in Vegetable Broth: Add vegetable broth gradually while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; let those flavors meld beautifully for about 20 minutes.
Taste Test Time!: After simmering, take a moment to taste your creation! Adjust seasoning as needed—more salt? A splash of lime juice? You’re the chef here!
Now you have an aromatic bowl of Pumpkin Chili ready to serve! Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious creation that warms both heart and home!
You Must Know
- Pumpkin chili is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The creamy texture and fragrant spices make it irresistible
- Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced pumpkin and spices. Let them mingle before adding beans and broth for a hearty result.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beans for lentils or add roasted corn for extra sweetness. A sprinkle of cheese on top adds delightful richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store pumpkin chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Choose a sugar pie pumpkin for the best flavor; its sweetness complements the spices beautifully
- Experiment with your favorite beans to customize texture and taste, ensuring everyone loves it
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor satisfaction
Cooking this pumpkin chili brings back memories of autumn family gatherings, where laughter blended with the aroma of spices. It’s become my go-to comfort food that warms both belly and soul.

FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pumpkin works great; just reduce cooking time slightly.
Is pumpkin chili spicy?
The spice level is adjustable; add more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
How can I thicken my pumpkin chili?
Simmer longer to reduce liquid or add mashed beans for thickness without changing flavor.
Pumpkin Chili
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Pumpkin Chili, a dish that marries sweet pumpkin with hearty beans and aromatic spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will embrace your taste buds in a delightful hug, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends. With its vibrant orange hue and rich flavors, this pumpkin chili is not just a meal—it’s an experience that nourishes both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can canned pumpkin puree
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter for a smooth cooking process.
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in diced bell peppers along with cumin and chili powder; cook until the spices release their aroma.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree, black beans, and kidney beans; combine well.
- Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Taste your chili; adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg




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