Description

This Creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate cozy dinner idea. With lean ground turkey, velvety pumpkin purée, white beans, and warming spices all swirled together in a rich, creamy broth—this dish is a fall and winter favorite. It’s perfect as a quick dinner, healthy meal prep, or hearty lunch. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack alternative or comfort food that satisfies, this easy recipe ticks every box. It’s gluten-free, high in protein, and big on flavor—making it one of the best food ideas for chilly evenings. A warm bowl of this chili feels like a hug in food form.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, diced

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

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée (100% pure pumpkin)

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)

1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for extra creaminess)

1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper, shredded cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes.

2. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.

3. Stir in pumpkin purée and white beans. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.

4. Add chicken broth and stir. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

5. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted. Add heavy cream or half-and-half. Warm through gently for 5 minutes more. Adjust seasoning.

6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley. Add optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or a dash of cayenne if desired.

Notes

Always use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid unwanted sweetness or spices.

If you’re dairy-free, substitute the cream and cheese with coconut milk and vegan cream cheese.

This chili thickens over time; add broth or milk when reheating to get the original creamy texture back.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 360
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: creamy turkey pumpkin chili, fall chili recipe, healthy comfort food, easy dinner, quick chili