Gluten Free Pumpkin Chili with Turkey | Cozy & Healthy Fall Dinner Recipe
❤️ Recipe Summary
This Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chili with Turkey is the ultimate cozy comfort meal for chilly fall nights. It’s hearty, protein-packed, and naturally gluten-free — perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that balances the smoky spices, making this chili both nourishing and flavorful. Serve it with gluten-free cornbread for the perfect autumn dinner!
Table of Contents
Ingredient Notes and Easy Swaps:
- Ground Turkey: Lean and mild, making it ideal for chili. You can substitute with ground chicken or beef.
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds natural creaminess and mild sweetness — use pure canned pumpkin (not pie filling).
- Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes add depth and a slightly smoky flavor.
- Beans: Use kidney or beans — or skip for a bean-free option.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential for that aromatic chili base.
- Bell Peppers: Add color and subtle sweetness.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps it saucy and flavorful. Ensure it’s labeled gluten-free.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Cinnamon: The spice blend that gives warmth and a touch of autumn magic.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
Optional Add-ins:
- Corn, sweet potatoes, or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.
Testing Notes From My Kitchen
I tested this recipe three times — once on the stovetop and twice in the slow cooker. The slow cooker version brings out more sweetness from the pumpkin, while stovetop gives a thicker, heartier texture. Both versions taste fantastic — so choose based on your time!
How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chili with Turkey (Step-By-Step)
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
- Brown the Turkey: Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes to release the aroma.
- Add Pumpkin and Tomatoes: Mix in pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or shredded cheese (use dairy-free if needed).
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Portion into containers and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Does the pumpkin make the chili sweet?
Not overly — it just adds a mild, creamy background flavor that balances the spices beautifully.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the turkey and use more beans or lentils.
Q: Is this chili dairy-free?
Yes — just skip cheese toppings or use dairy-free alternatives.
Q: How do I thicken my chili?
Simmer longer uncovered, or mash some of the beans for a thicker texture.
More Gluten Free Pumpkin Recipes:
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Banana Bread
- Fluffy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pancakes
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins
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Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chili with Turkey
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients 1x 2x 3x
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups gluten-free chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon.
- Add pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice before serving. You can also substitute the turkey with ground chicken or beef.
SPECIAL NOTE
Always double-check that your chicken broth and spice blends are labeled gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur in mixed seasoning brands.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 270 | Protein: 22g | Carbs: 20g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on brands, measurements, and portion sizes. Always calculate using your own ingredients for the most accurate results.
