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The magic of Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Chili begins with its carefully selected ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building depth of flavor and creating a satisfying meal.

Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

Warm up this autumn with a delicious bowl of Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Chili. This hearty recipe combines traditional chili flavors with creamy pumpkin puree, making it perfect for cool evenings at home. With options for both meat-lovers and plant-based eaters, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Packed with spices, beans, and fresh vegetables, it's a comforting meal that nourishes. Follow the simple steps to create a fall favorite that your family will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey or beef (or a plant-based substitute)

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium bell peppers (any color), diced

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, including their juices

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

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

1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat (Optional): In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey or beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and then transfer the browned meat to a crockpot. If using a plant-based substitute, skip this step.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Incorporate the diced bell peppers, cooking for an additional 2 minutes, until softened. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the crockpot.

      Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

        Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is ready when the flavors have melded beautifully and it’s heated through.

          Serve: Once the cooking time is up, give the chili a taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the steaming chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings such as a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado.

            Enjoy: For a heartwarming meal, serve your pumpkin chili hot alongside cornbread or crispy tortilla chips!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours cook time | Servings: 6-8