If you’re searching for a soul-warming, hearty recipe that wraps you in cozy autumn vibes, look no further than this Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili. It blends tender ground meat, colorful bell peppers, creamy pumpkin, and warming spices to create a chili that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. You get rich depth from the tomatoes and beans, a mellow sweetness from the pumpkin, and just the right kick from those signature chili seasonings. This inviting bowl of goodness is perfect for family dinners, game days, or chilly nights craving something extra special!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili lies in its straightforward, no-fuss ingredients. Each item on the list plays a unique role—building body, color, hint of sweetness, or bold savoriness so every spoonful feels balanced and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables for a flavorful base.
- Large onion: Delivers aromatic sweetness and body to the chili.
- Garlic cloves: Infuses bold, savory notes that cozy up next to the spices beautifully.
- Red bell pepper: Offers a sweet crunch and vibrant color for visual appeal.
- Green bell pepper: Balances sweetness with a slight earthiness and crunch.
- Ground beef or turkey: Provides hearty protein—choose beef for richness or turkey for a lighter twist.
- Chili powder: Stars as the classic chili spice and brings a gentle smoky heat.
- Ground cumin: Layers in warmth and depth for that signature chili taste.
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smoky undertones that deepen the flavor profile.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Use for an extra pop of heat if you like your chili with a kick.
- Salt: Balances and brings out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
- Black pepper: Contributes earthy aroma and light heat.
- Pumpkin purée: The secret ingredient—adds creamy texture and gentle sweetness without overwhelming the chili.
- Diced tomatoes with juices: Provides acidity and depth while tying everything together.
- Black beans: Lend a creamy bite and extra heartiness.
- Kidney beans: Give body, flavor, and traditional chili authenticity with every spoonful.
- Beef or chicken broth: Adds moisture, flavor, and helps marry all the wonderful ingredients together.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and continue to cook for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant. This step sets a flavorful foundation that will infuse every bite of your Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili.
Step 2: Cook the Peppers
Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers. Sauté everything together for another 3 minutes. The peppers should soften slightly and begin to release their vibrant aroma, layering more color and natural sweetness into the chili base.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Add your choice of ground beef or turkey to the pot and use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. If needed, drain off any excess grease—it’s all about keeping the flavors hearty but not oily.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Once the meat is browned, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want extra heat), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so the meat and veggies pick up every bit of those dreamy spices.
Step 5: Stir in Pumpkin and More
Spoon in the pumpkin purée, add the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, pour in the drained black beans and kidney beans, and finally add the broth. Give it all a really good stir, making sure everything is evenly combined—this is where Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili truly comes together!
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it all cook together for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when the flavors meld, the pumpkin works its magic, and your kitchen fills with the most enticing aroma!
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if you’d like a punch more salt, spice, or depth. Ladle the Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings for a custom, comforting finish.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili
Garnishes
Toppings are where you can get creative and let everyone tailor their bowl to taste. Classic choices like a dollop of sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar, chopped green onions, or slices of spicy jalapeños really add flavor and fun to Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili. Try some avocado or a sprinkle of cilantro for freshness as well!
Side Dishes
This chili is rich and filling on its own, but serving it with a side of crusty bread, warm cornbread, or fluffy rice takes it to the next level. Even a simple green salad creates a lovely balance and makes it a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in the mood to impress, try serving Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls—perfect for chilly get-togethers or autumn-themed dinner parties. You can even set up a chili bar with a spread of toppings and sides so guests can build their own bowl just how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili keeps beautifully! Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a stellar option for meal prep or easy weekday lunches.
Freezing
This chili freezes like a dream. Divide it into portions, place in freezer-safe containers, and store for up to three months. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of each container for expansion, and don’t forget to label with the date!
Reheating
To reheat, simply let frozen chili thaw overnight in the fridge (if you planned ahead) or use the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re in a pinch. Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until it’s bubbly and hot, or microwave individual portions—just stir halfway through for even heating. Add extra broth if it’s thickened up too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute another type Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the black or kidney beans for pinto beans, cannellini beans, or whatever you prefer. The Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili is wonderfully adaptable—just keep the total amount of beans the same for best texture.
Is this chili very spicy?
The base recipe has a warm but mild heat. If you want a spicier chili, use the optional cayenne pepper or add extra chili powder. For an even milder version, reduce or omit those spicy ingredients altogether.
Does the pumpkin flavor stand out?
The pumpkin actually blends in subtly, offering creaminess and a gentle sweetness that rounds out the chili’s texture without making it taste like dessert. Even pumpkin skeptics will love the depth it brings to Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables and spices first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until flavors meld perfectly.
What protein works best besides ground beef or turkey?
You can use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that different proteins will bring slightly different flavors and textures, but Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili is delicious with almost any choice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bubbling pot of Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili, ready to ladle into bowls and share with people you love. Whether you’re making it for a big game day, a fall family dinner, or just a cozy night in, this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I hope you give it a try—your taste buds (and your guests) will be glad you did!
Print
Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili is a flavorful twist on classic chili recipes. The combination of savory spices, pumpkin puree, and beans creates a rich and comforting dish perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin purée
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the bell peppers and cook for 3 more minutes.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Add the pumpkin purée, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and broth. Stir everything well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- Pumpkin adds subtle sweetness and a creamy texture without overpowering the chili flavor.
- This recipe is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- You can swap ground turkey for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
