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Autumnal Pumpkin Chili: The Cozy Slow Cooker Innovation

Written by

EllaDavis

in

As the leaves turn and there’s a chill in the air, I crave something that wraps me in warmth and nostalgia. This Slow Cooker Fall Chili with Pumpkin sparks a new love for seasonal ingredients, transforming a classic into a cozy masterpiece that simmers all day. It’s surprisingly simple to throw together and feels like a warm hug in every bite.

The scent of spices blending with roasted pumpkin is enough to make anyone pause and start dreaming of sweater weather. I’ve discovered that adding pumpkin not only enhances flavor but also ensures each spoonful feels comforting and hearty without being heavy. It’s perfect for those busy autumn days when you want incredible flavor without the fuss.

Slow Cooker Fall Chili with Pumpkin

This hearty chili combines ground meat, beans, and roasted pumpkin with warming spices, simmered slowly to develop deep flavors. The final dish has a thick, comforting texture with a vibrant orange color and fragrant aroma of fall spices and pumpkin.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey or beef or your preferred ground meat
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup roasted pumpkin pureed or finely chopped
  • 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add diced onion. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    1 pound ground turkey or beef
  2. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
    1 pound ground turkey or beef
  3. Turn up the heat slightly and add ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
    1 pound ground turkey or beef
  4. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the slow cooker, then add the roasted pumpkin, diced tomatoes with juice, drained beans, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
    1 pound ground turkey or beef
  5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth to help create a flavorful, simmering base, then stir everything together well.
    1 pound ground turkey or beef
  6. Set the slow cooker to low and cook uncovered for 6 hours, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken and the flavors will meld beautifully.
  7. Once the cooking time completes, give the chili a good stir, check the seasoning, and adjust salt or spices if needed. It should be rich, thick, and fragrant, with a vibrant orange hue from the pumpkin.
There’s something about the way this chili fills the kitchen with a sweet, smoky aroma that reminds me of steamy afternoons at fall fairs. It’s a rustic dish that brings a sense of celebration to any table, especially during cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—change the beans, adjust the spice, or top with crunchy cornbread for new adventures in each batch.

Making this recipe is a small ritual that honors the fleeting beauty of fall. It captures the essence of season—earthy, spicy, and sweet—while offering comfort that lasts through the coldest nights. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the little moments of autumn.

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