Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili – Creamy, Cozy, and Easy Fall Comfort

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is your ticket to cozy comfort in a bowl — creamy, hearty, and full of fall flavor. If you’re the kind of person who craves a warm hug in food form when the air gets crisp, this is your go-to recipe. It’s got that earthy pumpkin sweetness, a gentle spice kick, and tender bits of turkey that make every spoonful feel downright satisfying. Bonus? It’s packed with veggies and protein but still feels light enough for a weeknight dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or just need a pick-me-up meal that says “fall is here,” this turkey pumpkin white bean chili hits the spot perfectly. Serve it up with crusty bread or over rice, and watch it disappear faster than a slice of pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving.

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What is Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili?

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that brings together lean ground turkey, creamy pumpkin puree, and hearty white beans in a velvety spiced broth. Think of it as the cozy cousin of traditional chili—less heavy, but just as comforting. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture, while the turkey and beans create a protein-rich base that keeps you full without feeling weighed down. Spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander add depth and warmth, making this a perfect one-pot meal for those chilly fall evenings.

Whether you’re a pumpkin fanatic or just someone looking for a fresh twist on chili night, this dish fits right in with your seasonal favorites. And for an extra helping of cozy inspiration, try pairing it with my White Chicken Chili or Healing Warming Soup — your taste buds will thank you.

Reasons to Try Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

If you’ve ever wanted comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili checks every box. First, it’s easy. One pot, simple ingredients, and less than an hour from stove to table. Second, it’s healthy. You’re getting lean protein from turkey, fiber from the beans, and a dose of vitamin-rich pumpkin — all in one creamy, dreamy bowl. And third? It’s a total crowd-pleaser. Even the pumpkin skeptics in your life will be reaching for seconds.

Plus, it’s adaptable: make it in a Dutch oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot. This recipe also freezes beautifully, making it a meal-prep dream. Want to round out your cozy dinner lineup? Try it alongside Turkey Corn Chowder or Healthy Turkey Rice Soup for a week full of flavor and comfort.

Ingredients Needed to Make Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream

Instructions to Make Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

Making Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili step by step is simple, comforting, and honestly kind of therapeutic — especially when the weather outside calls for something warm and cozy. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide that walks you through each stage of the process so you can recreate this hearty fall favorite with ease. Grab your Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, and let’s make some kitchen magic.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start your step-by-step process by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your diced onion and chopped carrots. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. This is where the foundation of flavor begins — the gentle caramelization of onions adds sweetness, while carrots bring a subtle earthy note. If you love building flavors like this, check out my Hearty Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup for more ways to layer fresh produce into your dishes.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step. Let the vegetables soften fully before adding the next ingredients — patience now equals a richer chili later.

Step 2: Toast the Spices and Add Aromatics

Next in your step-by-step recipe, stir in the minced garlic, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Let them cook for about 1 minute while stirring continuously. This quick toasting “blooms” the spices, which means their natural oils release and amplify the flavor throughout your chili. You’ll know it’s perfect when your kitchen starts smelling like a cozy fall day.

If you’re into experimenting with spice combinations, you might enjoy the spice balance in my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup — it’s another great example of how the right blend of aromatics can completely transform a dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey

For this step-by-step chili method, push the sautéed veggies to one side of the pot and add the ground turkey. Use your wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally, but don’t rush the process — you want the turkey to brown and develop a little color for added depth. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once the meat is no longer pink, mix everything together so the spices and vegetables coat the turkey evenly.

If you love turkey-based recipes like this, try my Turkey Marinade for your next roasted turkey dish — it adds just as much flavor and moisture as you’re building here.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin, Beans, and Broth

Here’s the heart of your step-by-step chili preparation. Add the thyme, salt, pumpkin puree, cannellini beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture will start looking thick and creamy — that’s the pumpkin working its magic. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Cover the pot slightly with the lid (tilted just enough for steam to escape), and let it cook for about 25 minutes. This simmering step allows the pumpkin to meld with the broth and the turkey to soak up those rich, spiced flavors.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more broth. For a thicker, creamier texture, let it simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes.

Want to explore more pumpkin goodness? You’ll love my Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Delight — it’s another fall favorite that celebrates pumpkin in a savory way.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream for a Velvety Finish

For the final step-by-step moment, remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Watch as your chili transforms into a beautifully creamy, golden masterpiece. This step gives the dish its signature luxurious texture and balances the smoky spice with a silky finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — a pinch of salt or a dash more cumin can fine-tune the flavor perfectly.

If you want to make it lighter or dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream. I’ve used this trick in my 30-Minute Creamy Vegan Gnocchi Soup — it keeps the texture luscious while making the dish plant-friendly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili step by step journey ends here — with a steaming bowl of creamy, hearty goodness ready to enjoy. Serve it with crusty bread, a sprinkle of fresh thyme, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.

If you’re meal-prepping or looking for creative leftovers, this chili pairs perfectly with Leftover Turkey Tortilla Soup or Healthy Turkey Rice Soup. It’s comfort food that keeps on giving.

What to Serve with Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

This chili pairs beautifully with all things cozy. Try a warm slice of cornbread or a crusty baguette for dunking. For a hearty meal, serve it with a crisp fall salad or roasted vegetables like Easy Glazed Carrots. If you want to keep the comfort theme going, whip up a batch of Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese on the side. And for dessert? You can’t go wrong with No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake. Each bite feels like the ultimate fall feast — the kind of meal that makes the whole table fall silent except for satisfied sighs.

Key Tips for Making Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

1. Don’t skip sautéing the veggies — this builds a flavorful base that makes all the difference.
2. Use real pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The pure version keeps it savory and balanced.
3. Add more spice if you like it bold — toss in chili flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
4. Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
5. Freeze it for easy weeknight dinners — it reheats perfectly without losing texture.
   If you’re craving more soup inspiration, you’ll love my Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Delight or 30-Minute Creamy Vegan Gnocchi Soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili

To store, let your chili cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s steaming. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to that silky consistency. For individual portions, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen — a true gift for busy weeknights or meal-prep lovers.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey? Absolutely! Just add it during the simmering step since it’s already cooked.
Is it spicy? Not really — it’s warm and smoky, not hot. But you can easily spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or jalapeño.
Can I make this vegetarian? Yep! Swap the turkey for extra beans or lentils, and use veggie broth instead of chicken.
What’s the best topping? A dollop of sour cream, chopped parsley, or shredded cheese — all winners.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili is the kind of meal that makes you feel hugged from the inside out. It’s cozy, creamy, and packed with nourishing goodness that your whole family will love. Whether you make it in a Dutch oven on a lazy Sunday or toss it in the slow cooker before work, it’s a reliable fall favorite. If you loved this recipe, you’ll definitely want to try my Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Casserole or Turkey and Dumplings Soup for even more hearty, seasonal comfort food ideas.

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