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–+ servings
Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin Chili: Your Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food Fix

Experience the warm flavors of Pumpkin Chili, a comforting twist on classic chili that's perfect for cozy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Great for sautéing; a neutral vegetable oil can be used for a lighter flavor.
  • 1 pound Ground Spicy Italian Sausage Adds a hearty kick; can substitute with ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter dish.
  • 1 Onion This aromatic is key for depth; shallots can be used if you prefer a milder taste.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Contributes sweetness and vibrant color; green bell pepper offers a less sweet alternative.
  • 3 Garlic Cloves Enhances overall flavor; garlic powder (1 tsp per clove) works in a pinch.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin Infuses earthy warmth; coriander can be a good substitute if you don’t have cumin.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adds a spicy kick and smokiness; use paprika and cayenne for a unique heat mix.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for flavor enhancement; consider using less if substituting with table salt.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds a touch of heat; white pepper can be used for a milder option.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Gives warmth and complexity; feel free to omit if desired.
For the Chili
  • 2 cans Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Provides acidity and a rich base; regular canned tomatoes are a suitable substitute.
  • 1 can Kidney Beans Brings heartiness; you can easily swap for black or pinto beans.
  • 1 can Black Beans Adds protein and texture; any similar bean can be used if necessary.
  • 1 can Pumpkin Puree Thickens and enriches; fresh pumpkin can be roasted and used as an alternative.
  • 2.5 cups Chicken Broth Adds body; vegetable broth can be a perfect choice for a vegetarian version.
For the Garnish
  • 0.5 cup Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Adds a delightful crunch; optional toppings like sour cream and shredded cheddar enhance flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Sour Cream Creaminess that complements the chili; consider avocado or tortilla chips for added richness.

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground spicy Italian sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes.
  3. Sauté 1 diced onion and 1 diced red bell pepper for 10–12 minutes.
  4. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Cook for about 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in two 14.5-ounce cans of fire-roasted tomatoes, 1 can of drained kidney beans, 1 can of drained black beans, 1 can of pumpkin puree, and 2½ cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together.
  6. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot in bowls garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream, or shredded cheddar.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Letting the Pumpkin Chili sit overnight improves the flavors. Portion leftovers for quick reheating on busy nights.

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