Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

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Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate cozy weather dish that brings autumn straight to your dinner table. This recipe blends tender ground turkey with smooth pumpkin puree and warm spices, creating a chili that’s creamy, comforting, and just the right amount of hearty. It’s not your average chili—it’s a seasonal twist that feels just as at home during a weeknight dinner as it does for a fall gathering.

The magic is in the balance of savory and slightly sweet. Pumpkin adds a velvety richness without overwhelming the dish, and the combination of beans, chili powder, and a touch of cream cheese delivers that signature chili satisfaction. It’s family-friendly, easy to make in one pot, and it tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

This chili is perfect for anyone looking to shake up their fall meal routine. It comes together in about 30 minutes, packs in protein, and has a unique flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great meal prep option. The creamy texture, combined with classic chili elements, gives this dish a feel-good factor that warms you from the inside out.

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin or Fresh?

Canned pumpkin works beautifully for this recipe and adds rich texture without the need for long cooking times. If you have fresh pumpkin on hand, feel free to roast and puree it, but canned pumpkin saves time and still brings a smooth, luxurious base that makes this chili shine.

Ingredients for the Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

A few pantry staples and fridge finds come together to make this flavorful one-pot meal. Each ingredient brings its own comfort-enhancing quality, creating the kind of chili you’ll want to make again and again.

• Ground turkey – Lean and protein-packed, this is the main body of the chili.
• Onion – Adds that essential aromatic base and depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Brings bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.
• Canned pumpkin puree – The creamy star of this dish with subtle sweetness.
• Chicken broth – Helps thin out the chili and adds savory depth.
• Diced tomatoes – A bit of acidity to balance the creaminess.
• White beans – Adds creaminess and fiber for a heartier chili.
• Cream cheese – Melts into the chili to make it smooth and rich.
• Chili powder – The spice blend that brings warmth and flavor.
• Cumin – Adds earthiness and pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Salt & pepper – To season everything just right.
• Olive oil – For sautéing and building the flavor base.

How To Make the Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it browns. This adds hearty texture and locks in flavor.

Step 3: Build the Chili Base

Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and bring everything to a low boil.

Step 4: Let It Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This gives the flavors time to deepen and marry.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Cube the cream cheese and stir it into the hot chili until fully melted and incorporated. This is where the magic happens, transforming your chili into a creamy, dreamy bowl.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices if desired. It’s perfect as is or with cornbread on the side.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. It stores well in the fridge for up to four days and can be frozen for up to three months. The flavors actually get better as it sits, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

What to Serve With Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili?

Cornbread Muffins

Soft, buttery cornbread muffins make the perfect pairing with the creamy chili.

Avocado Slices

The cool creaminess of avocado brings balance and freshness to every bite.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

A sharp cheddar sprinkled on top melts into the chili, adding richness and tang.

Tortilla Chips

Scoop it up or crumble them over for added crunch.

Pickled Jalapeños

A tangy, spicy kick for those who like a little heat.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad dressed in vinaigrette provides contrast to the chili’s richness.

Garlic Bread

Not just for pasta—this is great for mopping up that extra creamy chili sauce.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

A dollop on top takes the creaminess to another level.

Want More Chili Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili, you’ll want to try these hearty comfort meals next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for pasta night done right.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you want a quick, rich dinner.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that delivers velvety satisfaction in each bite.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a comfort-food mashup you didn’t know you needed.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for easy cleanup and full flavor.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different bean or spice? Maybe added a swirl of hot sauce? I love hearing how you put your spin on it.

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