White Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili

This white bean pumpkin turkey chili is an easy and comforting dish that's perfect for fall! It's packed with flavor from savory ground turkey, creamy pumpkin, hearty white beans, and warming spices that come together for a delicious seasonal chili you'll want to make again and again.

This white bean pumpkin turkey chili is cozy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make-perfect for those crisp fall evenings. It's ideal for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep, with hearty white beans, savory ground turkey, and pumpkin all simmered in a spiced chili base.

If you love comforting, protein-packed chili recipes, make sure to also check out my white ground chicken chili and classic turkey chili for more delicious, Mexican-inspired options that are equally easy and satisfying.

White Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili Ingredients

To make this white bean pumpkin turkey chili, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean protein that makes this chili a lighter option without sacrificing heartiness. It soaks up the spices beautifully and keeps the dish filling yet balanced.
• White beans: I love to use two different types of white beans-like cannellini and great northern-for added texture and variety. They make the chili extra creamy and satisfying while adding plant-based protein and fiber.
• Aromatics: Yellow onion and garlic are classic aromatics that create a flavorful base for the chili. When sautéed, they bring out a natural sweetness and depth that complement the spices perfectly.
• Seasonings: Chili powder (the American spice blend-not to be confused with pure ground chiles) gives the chili that warm, familiar flavor. Paprika, ground cumin, and a touch of cayenne pepper round out the seasoning blend with smokiness, earthiness, and a gentle heat.
• Liquids: Canned tomatoes and pumpkin purée create the most delicious and creamy base, bringing together savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Chicken broth loosens everything up just enough to let the flavors meld while still keeping the chili thick and hearty.
• Tomato paste: Tomato paste adds extra depth and richness to the chili. It intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Bell pepper: Bell pepper adds a pop of color and extra vegetables to the mix. It softens as it cooks but still gives the chili a bit of bite and sweetness.
• Toppings (optional): Top your bowl with anything you love-sour cream, avocado, jalapeño slices, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese all work great. These optional toppings add freshness, creaminess, or a little kick depending on what you choose.

How to make this white bean pumpkin turkey chili

Sauté the aromatics. Preheat some olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until the onion turns translucent.

Cook the ground turkey. Next, add the ground turkey and sauté until it is fully browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Season. Add the tomato paste and all the spices. Sauté briefly until fragrant.

Simmer. Next, add all of the liquids and remaining ingredients. Stir until combined. Then cover the pot, bring the chili to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and let the chili cook for 20 minutes. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve. Serve the chili with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Tips & Notes

• Let it simmer longer (if you have time): While this chili comes together quickly, letting it simmer a bit longer allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Even an extra 10-15 minutes can make a noticeable difference in richness.
• Use two types of white beans: Mixing different types of white beans-like cannellini and great northern-adds more texture and flavor. Each variety brings its own creaminess, which makes the chili even more satisfying.
• Don't skip the pumpkin: Pumpkin puree might seem unexpected, but it adds a velvety texture and subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. It also helps create that rich, creamy base without any dairy.
• Add your favorite toppings: Toppings take this chili to the next level! Think sour cream, avocado, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro-each one adds a new layer of flavor and texture.
• Adjust the heat to your taste: The cayenne pepper gives it a gentle kick, but you can always dial it up or down. Want more heat? Add a pinch more cayenne or throw in some diced jalapeños with the bell pepper.

How to serve this white bean pumpkin turkey chili

• Load it up with toppings: A generous handful of toppings can completely elevate your bowl-try sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. It's the easiest way to add extra flavor and texture.
• Serve it with crusty bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of chili. It makes the meal feel extra cozy and complete.
• Spoon it over pasta: Serving the chili over pasta (like macaroni or rotini) turns it into a hearty, chili-mac style dinner. It's a fun twist that's especially great for kids or anyone who loves comfort food.
• Pair it with rice or quinoa: Scoop the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling, grain-based meal. This is also a great option for meal prep and adds a little more bulk to the dish.
• Use it as a baked potato topping: Top a baked potato with a generous scoop of chili and your favorite toppings for a super comforting and easy meal. It's a great way to turn simple ingredients into something special.

Frequently Asked Questions

More simple and delicious fall dinner ideas

If you're looking to add more tasty dinners to your fall meal rotation, be sure to check out these delicious recipes:

• Turkey Chili
• Vegetarian Chili
• Black Bean and Lentil Soup
• German Potato Soup
• Hamburger Stew