Pumpkin chili is a cozy choice for a fall or winter meal. I made a large batch for my daughter’s pumpkin-themed baby shower, and there was still enough left for a few bowls at home. It was a fitting option for the “little pumpkin is coming” theme and a practical dish for serving a group.
As written, this chili can work for a low-carb approach or with the Trim Healthy Mama way of eating. It is also simply a good option for anyone who enjoys a hearty bowl of chili.
Why Add Pumpkin to Chili?
The pumpkin blends into the chili rather than giving it an obvious pumpkin flavor. It also helps thicken the chili, making this a simple way to add body without complicating the recipe.
This version does not include cinnamon or similar warm spices because that is not how we prefer our chili. If your family enjoys those flavors, pumpkin pie spice can be added to suit your taste.
A Simple Pumpkin Chili for Fall and Winter
This pumpkin chili belongs in the simple recipe collection. It is especially handy when you want a comforting meal that can be made for a family dinner, a gathering, or a Halloween menu.
Because it can be prepared in the crockpot, it is also a convenient choice when you want a warm pot of chili ready for everyone to enjoy.
How to Customize Pumpkin Chili
As written, the chili is fairly mild, so it is easy to adjust for your family. You can make it spicier, change the amount of beans, or serve it with different toppings.
– Add more beans if you want to move it toward a Trim Healthy Mama E meal.
– Keep the bean amount low and use meat that is not lean if you want it to fit a Trim Healthy Mama S meal.
– Add jalapeños or other preferred seasonings for more heat.
– Include pumpkin pie spice if you enjoy warm spices in savory pumpkin recipes.
Pumpkin Chili Topping Ideas
Toppings make it easy for everyone to finish a bowl the way they like it. I served the chili with oyster crackers and shredded cheddar at the shower. At home, I enjoyed it with cheese, jalapeños, and avocado.
Other serving options can include your usual favorite chili toppings or low-carb cornbread on the side.
What Does Pumpkin Chili Taste Like?
This recipe tastes like a mild, hearty chili rather than a sweet pumpkin dish. The pumpkin stays in the background and helps create a thicker texture. If you prefer a stronger seasonal flavor, the optional pumpkin pie spice provides an easy way to adjust it.
When to Serve Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin chili is well suited to cool-weather occasions, including:
– Fall family meals
– Winter dinners
– Halloween gatherings
– Pumpkin-themed parties or showers
– Casual meals served from the crockpot
It is a simple, adaptable recipe that can be served with toppings and sides that fit the occasion.
The Best Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients
- 2 Lb Ground Beef
- 1 L Onion, Diced
- 1 M Bell Pepper, Diced
- 1 M Jalapeno, deseeded and diced
- 2 T Minced Garlic
- 1 1/2 T Chili Powder
- 1 T Ground Cumin
- 2 t Salt
- 1 t Pepper
- 1 T Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 T Sweetener, I used swerve
- 28 oz Can Crushed Tomatoes
- 14 oz Can Petite Diced Tomatoes
- 2 Heaping T Tomato Paste
- 15 oz Can of Pumpkin Puree Not the pie filling
- 2- 15 oz Cans of Black Beans, Rinsed
- 1 Crushed Tomato can filled with water
Instructions
- Brown meat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno (if using) to a large skillet to brown.
- When brown, pour skillet contents into a crockpot. Add all of the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high 2-4 hours.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
