turkey pumpkin chili slow cooker

This turkey pumpkin chili slow cooker recipe is the perfect comfort food. The combination of ground turkey, pumpkin purée, and chili spices creates a unique and delicious flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. Not only is this chili flavorful and easy to make, but it's also healthy and low in calories. It's the perfect way to enjoy a warm bowl of chili without feeling guilty about it.

Ingredients for Turkey Pumpkin Chili Slow Cooker Recipe

This turkey pumpkin chili slow cooker recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. You will need:

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped bell pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 bay leaf

Instructions for Turkey Pumpkin Chili Slow Cooker Recipe

Before you start cooking, be sure to read through the instructions and gather all the ingredients listed above. Also, make sure you have a slow cooker that is at least 6 quarts in size.

Add the ground turkey, diced tomatoes, pumpkin purée, black beans, kidney beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
When the chili is finished cooking, remove the bay leaf and discard.
Serve the chili in individual bowls with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Making Turkey Pumpkin Chili Slow Cooker Recipe

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add 1/4 cup of tomato paste when you add the other ingredients to the slow cooker.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. If you like it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
You can use any type of beans you prefer. Pinto, white beans, or black-eyed peas all work well in this recipe.
If you don't have fresh bell peppers, you can use a can of diced bell peppers instead.
If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use a teaspoon of garlic powder instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of pumpkin purée?

No, canned pumpkin is not suitable for this recipe. Canned pumpkin is much sweeter and will alter the flavor of the chili. Be sure to use plain pumpkin purée.

Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can use ground beef instead of ground turkey. If you do, make sure to drain off any excess fat before adding the beef to the slow cooker.

Can I make this chili in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this chili in the Instant Pot. Simply add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally and serve.

Can I make this chili on the stovetop?

Yes, you can make this chili on the stovetop. Simply brown the ground turkey in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer the chili for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. When it's finished cooking, serve and enjoy.