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Slow Cooker Fall Pumpkin Chili

This dish is a hearty chili cooked in a slow cooker, combining traditional chili spices with pureed pumpkin for added sweetness and velvety texture. It features ingredients like black beans, tomatoes, and spices, resulting in a thick, flavorful bowl that embodies autumn's comforting flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing and sautéing
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree smooth and velvety
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
  • 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder start with less and adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasonings

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Kitchen knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat the slow cooker insert with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat if using a stovetop-safe insert, or prepare the slow cooker. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, releasing a warm aroma.
  2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Add pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes with their juices, drained black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly, creating a rich, colorful mixture.
  3. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Let the chili cook for 6 hours, stirring once or twice, until the flavors meld and the chili thickens slightly, filling your kitchen with inviting autumnal aromas.
  4. Open the lid and check the chili's consistency. If it's too thick, stir in a splash of broth; if too thin, allow it to cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken further. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the spice level as preferred.
  5. Once the chili is tender, fragrant, and thickened to your liking, give it a final stir. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Notes

For a protein boost, add cooked ground turkey or sausage. To make it vegetarian or vegan, ensure all ingredients are plant-based and consider adding corn or diced sweet potatoes for extra texture.