Get ready to transform your chili game with this unexpected culinary masterpiece that combines the heartiness of ground turkey, the velvety richness of pumpkin, and a creamy finish that will make your taste buds dance! This isn't just another chili recipe - it's a seasonal sensation that bridges the gap between comfort food and gourmet cooking. Imagine a bowl of warmth that's packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and so creamy it'll make you forget every ordinary chili you've ever tasted.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can pumpkin puree
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Chili powder to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the spices beforehand to ensure smooth cooking process.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned turkey. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, drained kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In the final 5 minutes of cooking, slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to incorporate and create a rich, creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more chili powder, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with additional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, ensure your turkey is browned thoroughly - this develops a rich, deep taste base for your chili.
- Use fresh spices if possible; they'll give a more vibrant flavor compared to older, stale spices.
- Don't rush the simmering process - those 20 minutes allow the flavors to meld and develop complexity.
- When adding heavy cream, do it slowly and stir continuously to prevent separation.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
- Let the chili rest for those extra 5 minutes after cooking - this allows flavors to settle and intensify.
- Experiment with toppings like crispy tortilla strips, green onions, or a dash of hot sauce to personalize your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
