Spicy Pumpkin Chili

Name: Spicy Pumpkin Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your autumn evenings with this vibrant Spicy Pumpkin Chili recipe. Bursting with flavor, this hearty dish combines tender pumpkin, zesty beans, and a kick of chili spice, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it's also a great way to enjoy seasonal produce while keeping your meal healthy and nutritious.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-13T13:23:10.245Z

This Spicy Pumpkin Chili is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for autumn. Not only does it warm you up, but it also serves as a canvas for seasonal ingredients.

The Perfect Fall Comfort Food

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Spicy Pumpkin Chili to embrace the season. This dish is rich with the flavors of autumn, featuring the earthy sweetness of pumpkin combined with a medley of hearty beans and zesty spices. Each spoonful offers a satisfying depth that is perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings. It's not only a heartwarming meal but also a celebration of seasonal ingredients that are both nutritious and filling.

Pumpkin is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, along with fiber, making this chili not just a delicious dish but a healthy one as well. By including a variety of beans, you're adding protein and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied. This Spicy Pumpkin Chili is an ideal recipe for those looking to enhance their diet with wholesome, plant-based ingredients while enjoying the rich flavors of fall.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Spicy Pumpkin Chili is its remarkable versatility. It can be served as a filling main course or a scrumptious side dish for gatherings and celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a warm meal for a busy weeknight dinner, this chili fits the bill. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it an impressive dish to share, sure to please both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.

You can easily customize this recipe too! Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking by adding more chili powder or including other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn. This flexibility allows you to make this chili your own and cater to various tastes, ensuring it becomes a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin, diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings such as avocado, cheese, or cilantro.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

Add the Pumpkin and Spices

Stir in the diced pumpkin, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pumpkin is tender.

Serve

Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Spicy Pumpkin Chili!

Top with your favorite garnishes for added flavor!

Tips for the Perfect Chili

To make your Spicy Pumpkin Chili truly stand out, consider using fresh pumpkin instead of canned. Roasting fresh pumpkin enhances its natural sweetness and flavor profile, resulting in a more vibrant chili. When preparing your ingredients, take the time to properly dice the vegetables; uniform sizes will help ensure even cooking and a satisfying texture throughout the dish.

Experimenting with toppings can also elevate your chili experience. Try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist. Tortilla chips and avocado slices make great accompaniments, adding both crunch and creaminess to your bowl.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Spicy Pumpkin Chili is perfect for meal prep, and it stores exceptionally well. After allowing it to cool, transfer the chili to airtight containers. Refrigerated, it will last for up to five days, making it ideal for leftovers or for making ahead of time to enjoy on busy days. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just make sure to leave space in the container for the chili to expand as it freezes.

When reheating, you can simply pop it in the microwave for a quick meal or warm it gently on the stovetop. Adding a splash of vegetable broth while reheating may help revive some of the original flavors and consistency. This ensures each bowl you serve is just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.