Pumpkin Chili

If you try to contain your pumpkin obsession to fall recipes like PSLs and homemade pie, you are seriously missing out! Here, pumpkin gives an otherwise traditional chili a ton of body while also adding a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. It's the ingredient you never knew your homemade chili was missing! This savory pumpkin recipe comes together in under an hour but tastes like it’s been simmering all day. In other words, it's the perfect weeknight dinner when the weather starts to turn chilly. Pop a batch of corn muffins in the oven, set out your favorite fixings, and cozy up to a bowl. If you're looking for the perfect Halloween dinner idea, there's nothing more festive!

What does pumpkin chili taste like?

Don't be worried that this chili tastes like a slice of pumpkin pie—the pumpkin flavor is subtle. As with most chili recipes, the classic chili seasonings are what really shine through. This recipe does have a few twists, including cinnamon that works in harmony with the pumpkin and complements the smoky chili powder and cumin, and spicy Italian sausage that balances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.

Can you make pumpkin chili vegetarian?

Yes, to transform this chili into a vegetarian recipe, just leave out the spicy Italian sausage. Consider adding an extra can of beans or your favorite vegan ground meat substitute instead.

Can you make pumpkin chili ahead of time?

Certainly! The thing about chili is that it tastes better the longer it sits. With this recipe, you can get away with a shorter simmer time because the pumpkin adds such delicious body and thickness to the chili. However, if you have the time, let it go a little longer. Or better yet, make it a day ahead of time and let it hang out in the fridge until you're ready to eat! Allowing time for the flavors to meld will result in a more flavorful chili.

What kind of beans do you use in pumpkin chili?

The recipe calls for kidney and black beans, but you could use all kidney beans, all black beans, or even swap in pinto beans. Use whatever variety of canned beans you like best!

Is pumpkin puree really pumpkin?

You bet—but probably not the sugar pumpkin you’re thinking of. The brand Libby, which dominates the canned pumpkin market, produces their own proprietary kind of pumpkin—one that has been compared to a butternut squash. To avoid the hassle of chopping, cleaning and roasting a whole pumpkin, using the store-bought puree is highly recommended for this recipe. 

What makes chili taste like chili? 

With countless versions, it's hard to define what exactly the dish is. In most cases, chili peppers, meat, beans, and tomatoes are cooked slowly together. Your spice mix (most often inclusive of warm and earthy flavors) is key, as is your combination of mix-ins for the perfect thick and chunky consistency. 

What toppings can you pair with pumpkin chili?

Classic chili toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado are right at home with pumpkin chili. Try sprinkling on a few pepitas for crunch!