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Pumpkin Chili (Hearty Fall Comfort Bowl)

Pumpkin Chili (Hearty Fall Comfort Bowl)
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This Pumpkin Chili delivers everything you love about classic chili with a cozy seasonal twist. Pumpkin purée adds a velvety texture and subtle natural sweetness that perfectly balances the heat from spicy Italian sausage and the smokiness of chili powder. It’s a one-pot, deeply comforting meal that’s ideal for crisp autumn evenings, casual gatherings, or make-ahead dinners during the busy fall season.

Ingredients

Scale

Chili

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 lb ground spicy Italian sausage

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1½ tablespoons chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

  • ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 2 (15-oz) cans fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained

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

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

  • 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin purée

  • 2½ cups chicken broth

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Roasted pumpkin seeds

  • Sour cream

  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • Avocado slices

Instructions

  • Brown the Sausage
    Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until fully browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

  • Cook the Vegetables
    In the same pot, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized.

  • Bloom the Spices
    Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Build the Chili
    Add fire-roasted tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pumpkin purée, chicken broth, and the cooked sausage. Stir well to combine.

  • Simmer
    Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Season & Serve
    Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.

Notes

  • Pumpkin Purée Only: Be sure to use plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.

  • Heat Control: Use mild sausage for a gentler chili or add cayenne for extra spice.

  • Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 5–10 minutes if you prefer a thicker texture.

  • Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/pumpkin-chili-hearty-fall-comfort-bowl/