Dinner

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili Recipe

ByHarper Ellington December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

This Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is a cozy and flavorful fall meal that blends lean turkey with creamy pumpkin and hearty beans. Infused with warming spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or holiday gatherings.

A white bowl filled with thick soup showing various layers including pieces of orange squash, light beige beans, small crumbles of cooked ground meat, diced red tomatoes, and dark green leafy vegetables all mixed in a rich orange broth. The ingredients are well blended but still distinct with a slightly chunky texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft beige cloth partially visible on the side and a blurred orange pumpkin in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
2 cans (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
Step 4: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
Step 5: Add the pumpkin puree, white beans, and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
Customize toppings with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or extra herbs for more flavor.
Add diced sweet potatoes or bell peppers along with the onion for extra veggies and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.