Pumpkin Chili

This Pumpkin Chili brings all the comfort of your favorite chili with a seasonal twist. The pumpkin puree adds velvety body and just a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the heat from the Italian sausage and the smokiness of the chili powder.

Perfect for crisp evenings or fall gatherings, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s both hearty and full of flavor. Serve it with a side of cornbread or over rice for a filling meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re prepping for a Halloween party or just want something cozy to curl up with, this bowl checks all the boxes for autumn comfort food.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb ground spicy Italian sausage

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, chopped

• 2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 ½ tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste

• ¾ tsp ground black pepper, plus more to taste

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• 2 (15-oz.) cans fire-roasted tomatoes, not drained

• 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin puree

• 2 ½ cups chicken broth

• Garnishes: roasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, avocado

Directions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking it into pieces, until browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove it and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 10–12 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

5. Add the tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and browned sausage. Stir to combine.

6. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

8. Serve hot with garnishes like sour cream, cheddar cheese, avocado, and pumpkin seeds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Flavor Profile: Earthy, Spicy, and Subtly Sweet

One of the most exciting aspects of this pumpkin chili is the complexity of its flavor. Pumpkin puree contributes a gentle sweetness and an earthy undertone, but it’s the seasoning blend that really brings this dish to life. Smoky chili powder and cumin form the backbone, while cinnamon sneaks in a warming depth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Italian sausage adds a spicy, meaty bite that contrasts perfectly with the creamy base. Fire-roasted tomatoes add brightness and acidity, while kidney and black beans introduce both texture and heartiness. Together, these ingredients deliver a full-bodied, spicy-sweet bowl that’s perfect for cold evenings.

And don’t worry—the dish doesn’t taste like dessert. The pumpkin flavor is subtle and savory, not sugary or cloying. It’s balanced, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.

Why Pumpkin Works in Chili

Pumpkin isn’t just an aesthetic seasonal addition—it actually serves multiple functional purposes in this chili. First and foremost, it acts as a natural thickener, creating a creamy, luxurious texture without the need for cream or roux. It also adds essential nutrients and enhances the body of the chili, allowing it to simmer and develop deeper flavors in a shorter time.

Canned pumpkin puree is especially convenient, as it saves time while offering the same benefits as fresh roasted pumpkin. And unlike more aggressive vegetables, it blends seamlessly into the base, enriching it rather than taking over the dish.

Pumpkin also pairs exceptionally well with chili’s classic spices. When combined with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and cinnamon, it becomes part of a well-rounded flavor experience that feels both familiar and new.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals and Meal Prep

Chili is one of those meals that tastes even better the next day, and pumpkin chili is no exception. The spices have more time to meld, the beans soak up more flavor, and the overall consistency improves with rest. That makes it an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time—either for a busy weeknight or for a gathering where you want to minimize kitchen time.

It also freezes incredibly well. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready for a comforting, fuss-free meal.

Meal preppers will especially appreciate how one pot of pumpkin chili can serve multiple meals with minimal effort. It reheats beautifully and can be paired with different sides or toppings each time for variety.

Serving Suggestions: Top It Your Way

One of the joys of chili is the toppings—and this version provides a perfect canvas for personalization. Traditional favorites like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced avocado complement the pumpkin’s creamy richness and the sausage’s spice.

Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are an especially inspired topping here, adding crunch, color, and a continuation of the pumpkin theme. You might also serve it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over a bed of rice for an extra-filling option.

If you want to elevate the meal, serve it in small bread bowls or mini pumpkins for a festive fall presentation. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests at autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or cozy weekend dinners.

Easy to Make Vegetarian or Vegan

If you’re looking to cut down on meat or prepare this dish for plant-based guests, it’s incredibly simple to adapt. Just omit the sausage and replace it with a second can of beans, lentils, or a meat alternative like vegan ground “beef” or crumbled tempeh.

Since the base relies on beans, tomatoes, and pumpkin puree, the flavor remains robust even without the meat. Make sure to use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and you’ll have a fully vegetarian—and potentially vegan—version that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

This versatility makes pumpkin chili an inclusive dish that can accommodate a range of dietary needs without extra work or unfamiliar ingredients.

Customizing Your Pumpkin Chili

Like all great comfort food, pumpkin chili is open to interpretation and customization. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add Corn or Sweet Potatoes: For extra sweetness and color contrast.

• Try Ground Turkey or Chicken: As a leaner meat alternative to sausage.

• Add a Splash of Maple Syrup: To enhance the natural sweetness of pumpkin.

• Spice It Up: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a touch of cayenne for more heat.

• Make it Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a silkier finish.

• Use Different Beans: Pinto, navy, or cannellini beans can all work beautifully.

• Add Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice to bulk it up further.

Because the pumpkin base is so forgiving, you can experiment without worrying about ruining the dish. It’s a great platform for creativity.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Chili

This dish isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s low in calories but high in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and the immune system.

The beans provide plant-based protein, iron, and fiber, while tomatoes bring vitamin C and lycopene. Even the spices like cumin and chili powder have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

And if you opt for lean meats or a vegetarian version, you can make this dish even healthier without losing any of its appeal. It’s one of those rare comfort foods that’s genuinely good for you.

Great for Entertaining

Pumpkin chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at fall parties, tailgates, or Halloween gatherings. It’s easy to scale up for a large group and doesn’t require special equipment or cooking skills.

Serve it buffet-style with a toppings bar so guests can customize their own bowls. Pair it with apple cider, mulled wine, or craft beer for a cozy autumnal vibe.

Because it holds its temperature well and doesn’t require constant attention, it’s a stress-free centerpiece for casual hosting.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Chili is a modern twist on a beloved classic. It combines the comforting depth of chili with the smooth, sweet earthiness of pumpkin to create a bowl of food that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s quick enough for weeknight dinners, flavorful enough for special occasions, and versatile enough to meet a wide range of dietary needs.

Whether you’re a pumpkin skeptic or a superfan, this dish is worth a try. It offers everything you love about chili—heat, spice, and heartiness—with the added benefit of seasonal charm and added nutrition. Serve it once, and it might just become your go-to fall favorite.