Whole30 Pumpkin Turkey Chili

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Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Whole30 pumpkin turkey chili! Packed with lean ground turkey, seasonal vegetables, and warming spices, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. It’s the perfect recipe for meal prep, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a nourishing bowl of chili.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: A rich combination of pumpkin puree, smoked paprika, and hearty vegetables makes it wonderfully savory.
• Whole30-Compliant: Every ingredient is carefully selected to meet Whole30 guidelines.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer for effortless reheating.
• Family-Friendly: Custom toppings ensure everyone in the family gets their favorite bite.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 4 medium celery stalks (chopped)
• 2 cloves of garlic (grated or finely minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds 93% lean ground turkey
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• 1/2 of a medium butternut squash (chopped, about 2 cups)
• 15 ounce can pumpkin puree
• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can marinara sauce
• 2 cups chicken stock
• toppings of choice: sliced jalapeño, scallions, avocado, diced red onion, cilantro, limes

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Ground Turkey: If not following Whole30, you could substitute ground chicken or ground beef.
• Vegetables: Zucchini or sweet potatoes can be swapped in place of butternut squash. For a similar recipe featuring zucchini, check out our Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake.
• Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you’re using unsweetened, 100% pure pumpkin for Whole30 compliance.
• Spices: Feel free to tweak the chili powder or smoked paprika to match your desired spice level.

How to Make Whole30 Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and cook the onions, bell peppers, carrots, celery, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper for 10 minutes until softened. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and set aside.
2. In the same dutch oven, reduce heat to medium-low, add another tablespoon of olive oil, and cook the ground turkey for about 10 minutes until fully browned. You might also like our guide to high-protein micro meals if you’re looking to include more protein in your diet.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and the remaining teaspoon of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey in the spices.
4. Return the cooked vegetables to the pot. Add the chopped butternut squash, pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and chicken stock. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Adjust seasonings to taste, if needed.
6. Serve warm with your desired toppings such as sliced jalapeño or diced red onion. For more comfort food inspiration, try our slow cooker pumpkin white bean turkey chili.
7. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for as long as 1 year.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Pro Tips

• Use freshly ground spices for a bold and vibrant flavor.
• Sear the turkey well to lock in flavor before adding the vegetables.
• Prepare all your vegetables in advance to streamline the cooking process.
• If the chili feels too thick, add a bit more chicken stock to adjust the consistency.
• Opt for a high-quality marinara sauce to elevate the chili’s richness. For Mediterranean-inspired soups, try our Mediterranean soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the vegetables in the initial steps, as this can lead to a mushy texture.
• Using ground turkey with too much fat, which can alter the chili’s texture.
• Skipping the slow simmer step, which is crucial for developing deep, complex flavors.
• Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning just before serving.

Serving & Storage

Serving Ideas

• Top with your favorite Whole30-friendly options like sliced jalapeños, avocado chunks, and fresh cilantro.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete, balanced meal.
• Enjoy alongside roasted sweet potato fries or a slice of Whole30-compliant bread.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for convenient reheating. The chili will stay good for up to 1 year in the freezer.
• Reheating: From the fridge, reheat in a pot over medium-low heat. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave on medium power until heated through.

FAQ

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes exceptionally well and keeps for up to 1 year in an airtight container. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for extended storage.

What are good substitutions for butternut squash?

You can swap the butternut squash for sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even cauliflower to suit your preferences.

Is pumpkin puree Whole30-compliant?

Yes, as long as it is unsweetened and labeled as 100% pure pumpkin, it fits within Whole30 guidelines.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, by substituting the turkey with a plant-based protein like lentils. Note that beans are not allowed on strict Whole30, so choose your protein accordingly.

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