Name: Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Olive oil spray; 2 lbs 99% lean ground turkey; 1/2 teaspoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder, to taste; 2 bay leaves; 1 1/2 tbsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; 2 (15 oz) cans white northern or navy beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree, or homemade; 1 (4.5 oz) can chopped green chile; 2 cups low sodium chicken broth, check labels for gluten-free; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped cilantro; Chopped red onion or chives; Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream; Cheddar cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 74 reviews

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing dish that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, you’ve got to try this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe. This hearty chili brings together lean ground turkey, creamy white beans, and the subtle sweetness of pumpkin puree, all seasoned with fragrant spices and a touch of green chili for a bit of warmth. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully filling, and packs a punch of protein and fiber, making it an ideal meal for cooler evenings or anytime you crave a comforting bowl of chili with a twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a black slow cooker filled with separate layers of ingredients before mixing. There is a bottom layer of white beans with a smooth texture, occupying the bottom right section. Cooked ground meat is placed on the left side with a crumbly texture in light brown color. On top of the meat is a layer of finely chopped cooked onions in off-white color. Above the beans is a dollop of thick, bright orange sauce. Next to the onions and sauce is a layer of green chopped peppers, beside a cluster of various dried spices in shades of brown, beige, and dark red, with two large bay leaves placed on top. The slow cooker is resting on a white marbled surface, with a black and white striped cloth partially visible on the bottom side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a rich, balanced flavor and satisfying texture. From the lean ground turkey to the creamy white beans and the luscious pumpkin puree, every ingredient adds its own special touch to this fantastic chili.

Olive oil spray: Helps to sauté the turkey and aromatics without adding excess fat.
2 lbs 99% lean ground turkey: A lean protein that forms the hearty base of the chili.
1/2 teaspoon olive oil: Adds a bit of richness when cooking onions and garlic.
1 small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds pungency and warmth.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild spicy kick to the chili.
2 bay leaves: Infuse subtle herbal notes into the broth.
1 1/2 tablespoons cumin: Adds an earthy, smoky undertone.
1 teaspoon oregano: Offers a nice Mediterranean herbal balance.
2 15 oz cans white northern or navy beans, rinsed and drained: Bring creaminess and fiber to the chili.
15 oz can pumpkin puree (or homemade): Adds a unique sweetness and silky texture that makes this chili vibrant and full-bodied.
4.5 oz can chopped green chili: Contributes just the right amount of chili zing.
2 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chili flavorful and helps blend all the ingredients together.
Kosher salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Chopped cilantro, red onion or chives for topping: Fresh garnishes brighten the dish before serving.
Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream for topping (optional): Adds creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spice.

How to Make Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the ground turkey

Start by heating a large skillet over high heat with a light spray of olive oil. Add the 99% lean ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks until it turns white and is no longer pink. This step ensures your chili has plenty of lean, well-cooked protein before moving on to the next layers of flavor. Once cooked, transfer the turkey to your slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic with spices

In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Then sprinkle in the cumin and continue to sauté for about one more minute. This step unlocks the bold aromas and builds a rich flavor base that complements the pumpkin and beans perfectly. Transfer this mixture to your cooking vessel with the turkey.

Step 3: Add beans, pumpkin, and seasonings

Now it’s time to bring all the star ingredients together. Add the rinsed and drained white beans, pumpkin puree, chopped green chiles, and chicken broth to the pot. Sprinkle in your chili powder, oregano, and tuck in the bay leaves. Stir everything so that these wonderful flavors start mingling and becoming one savory, cozy mix.

Step 4: Cook the chili

If you’re using a slow cooker, cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. For the Instant Pot, seal the lid, set it to high pressure, and cook for 25 minutes with a natural release. This gentle, slow cooking lets all the flavors deepen and marry beautifully, while the turkey stays tender and the pumpkin infuses a subtle sweetness that’s unexpected but absolutely delightful.

Step 5: Final touches

Before serving, remove the bay leaves and taste the chili. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to perfectly suit your palate. This is your moment to make it just right, so don’t be shy with the seasoning.

How to Serve Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe

A close-up view of a slow cooker filled with thick chili, showing one main layer of chunky texture with brown ground meat mixed with light beige beans in a rich reddish-brown sauce, sprinkled with small pieces of chopped green herbs on top. The slow cooker has a shiny black rim and sits on a white marbled surface with a black and white striped cloth beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When serving this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe, fresh toppings make a world of difference. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, red onion, or chives for a burst of freshness. For a creamy contrast that complements the chili’s warmth, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. A few sliced jalapeños can amp up the heat, if you like it spicy.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with crispy baked chips, toasted cornbread, or a simple green salad. The crunch of baked chips balances the silky texture of the pumpkin and beans, while a lightly dressed salad brings brightness to the meal. These sides help round out the dish for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins to enhance the pumpkin theme. Another idea is layering the chili over cooked quinoa or brown rice to bulk it up and create a chili bowl feeling. Or simply serve it in rustic bowls with colorful ceramic spoons to showcase its vibrant orange hue — presentation counts to make it feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better than the day it was made.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your chili, let it cool completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover so it heats evenly and retains moisture.

FAQs

Can I use turkey breast instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey breast works perfectly for this recipe, offering a lean protein option that complements the mild flavors of the pumpkin and beans well.

Is canned pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, you want to use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sweeteners and spices that could change the flavor of the chili.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. Just swap the ground turkey for extra beans or a plant-based protein. You may want to adjust the seasonings slightly to your taste.

How spicy is this chili?

This chili has a mild to medium heat level from the chili powder and green chiles, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding more jalapeños or hot sauce if you like things fiery.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and cook it later?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in your slow cooker or Instant Pot the night before. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe a try because it’s one of those rare, comforting dishes that feels both wholesome and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers rich flavors, hearty nutrition, and pure, fall-season joy. Grab your slow cooker or Instant Pot and enjoy this rewarding bowl of chili soon!

Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need