As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a crisp chill, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy spirit of fall than with a steaming bowl of chili. This Pioneer Woman-inspired Pumpkin Chili captures everything we love about autumn: bold, comforting flavors with a seasonal twist. The combination of tender ground sausage, smoky spices, creamy pumpkin, and hearty beans creates a symphony of flavors that’s as warming as your favorite sweater.
This chili isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a celebration of the season. The subtle sweetness of pumpkin blends harmoniously with the heat of chili powder and cinnamon, bringing a balanced complexity to the dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or even serving at a fall gathering, this chili will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to bridge tradition and creativity. The addition of pumpkin puree—a hallmark of autumnal cooking—transforms an already beloved dish into something truly special. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this memorable meal.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Seasonal Sophistication: The pumpkin puree elevates the chili, adding a creamy texture and hint of natural sweetness that feels like autumn in a bowl.
- Robust Flavor: A mix of fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian sausage, and bold spices ensures this chili is packed with rich, smoky, and savory notes.
- Hearty and Nutritious: With a balance of lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and nutrient-dense pumpkin, this chili is both satisfying and wholesome.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, as it tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- Customizable for Every Palate: Easily tweak the spice level, bean types, or toppings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty fall-inspired chili:
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Spicy Italian Sausage: 1 pound
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic Cloves: 3, minced
- Ground Cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Chili Powder: 1½ tablespoons
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Black Pepper: ¾ teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: 2 cans (15 oz each), with juices
- Kidney Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 can (15 oz)
- Chicken Broth: 2½ cups
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Roasted pumpkin seeds
- Avocado slices
- Chopped fresh cilantro
How to Make Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Brown the Sausage
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Stir occasionally and let it brown for about 8-10 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Build the Spice Base
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices, allowing the heat to activate their aromatic qualities. This step lays the foundation for the rich and smoky flavor of the chili.
4. Add Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, followed by the kidney beans and black beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the beans are evenly distributed throughout the chili.
5. Incorporate the Pumpkin
Add the pumpkin puree to the pot, stirring until fully integrated. The puree will thicken the chili and provide a creamy, slightly sweet backdrop to the bold spices and savory sausage.
6. Simmer the Chili
Pour in the chicken broth and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop.
7. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or a dash of chili powder can make all the difference in achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
8. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls and let everyone customize their toppings. From shredded cheese to avocado slices or crunchy pumpkin seeds, the garnishes add both texture and flavor.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Chili
- Pumpkin Alternatives: If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it yourself for a homemade touch. You can also substitute butternut squash puree for a similar effect.
- Adjust the Heat: For a milder chili, opt for mild Italian sausage or reduce the amount of chili powder. If you love spice, consider adding a diced jalapeño or extra chili flakes.
- Thicker Chili: Let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken the consistency.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with an extra can of beans (pinto or chickpeas work well) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Freezing Tips: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes
- Bean Substitutions: Cannellini beans or navy beans can be swapped for the kidney or black beans for a milder flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end adds a tangy contrast that enhances the dish’s complexity.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors of this chili deepen and improve when it’s made ahead. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
What other toppings work well?
Crushed tortilla chips, hot sauce, diced red onions, and lime wedges are excellent additions to your chili bar.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, but consider using mild sausage and less chili powder if you’re serving young children or those sensitive to spice.
Related Recipes
If you love this chili, you’ll enjoy these other cozy dishes:
Conclusion
This Pioneer Woman-inspired Pumpkin Chili is a fall classic with a creative twist. From its smoky, savory flavors to the creamy richness of pumpkin puree, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this chili will quickly become a seasonal staple. So grab your favorite cozy blanket, ladle up a big bowl, and savor the flavors of autumn!
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Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili: A Fall-Inspired Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Description
As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a crisp chill, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy spirit of fall than with a steaming bowl of chili. This Pioneer Woman-inspired Pumpkin Chili captures everything we love about autumn: bold, comforting flavors with a seasonal twist. The combination of tender ground sausage, smoky spices, creamy pumpkin, and hearty beans creates a symphony of flavors that’s as warming as your favorite sweater.
This chili isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a celebration of the season. The subtle sweetness of pumpkin blends harmoniously with the heat of chili powder and cinnamon, bringing a balanced complexity to the dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or even serving at a fall gathering, this chili will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to bridge tradition and creativity. The addition of pumpkin puree—a hallmark of autumnal cooking—transforms an already beloved dish into something truly special. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this memorable meal.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Spicy Italian Sausage: 1 pound
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic Cloves: 3, minced
- Ground Cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Chili Powder: 1½ tablespoons
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Black Pepper: ¾ teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: 2 cans (15 oz each), with juices
- Kidney Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 can (15 oz)
- Chicken Broth: 2½ cups
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Roasted pumpkin seeds
- Avocado slices
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Stir occasionally and let it brown for about 8-10 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Build the Spice Base
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices, allowing the heat to activate their aromatic qualities. This step lays the foundation for the rich and smoky flavor of the chili.
4. Add Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, followed by the kidney beans and black beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the beans are evenly distributed throughout the chili.
5. Incorporate the Pumpkin
Add the pumpkin puree to the pot, stirring until fully integrated. The puree will thicken the chili and provide a creamy, slightly sweet backdrop to the bold spices and savory sausage.
6. Simmer the Chili
Pour in the chicken broth and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop.
7. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or a dash of chili powder can make all the difference in achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
8. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls and let everyone customize their toppings. From shredded cheese to avocado slices or crunchy pumpkin seeds, the garnishes add both texture and flavor.
Notes
- Bean Substitutions: Cannellini beans or navy beans can be swapped for the kidney or black beans for a milder flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end adds a tangy contrast that enhances the dish’s complexity.