Introduction
As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm bowl of chili wafting through your home. Enter this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Sweet Corn — a delightful twist on a classic favorite that celebrates the flavors of fall. With the creamy richness of pumpkin, a hint of spice, and the sweetness of corn, this hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights in or for feeding a crowd during game day gatherings.
Not only is this chili packed with nutrients, thanks to the fiber-rich beans and the vitamins from pumpkin, but it also comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Just toss in the ingredients, let them meld together throughout the day, and come back to a deliciously satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or a pumpkin enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your autumn menu. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or sour cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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- Transfer the sautéed veggies into the slow cooker.
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- Add the pumpkin puree, black beans, kidney beans, sweet corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth to the slow cooker.
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- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
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- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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- Once cooked, give the chili a good stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef – for a hearty base
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree – adds creaminess and fall flavor
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans – drained and rinsed for protein and fiber
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans – another layer of texture and nutrition
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – the acidic component for balance
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn – for a touch of sweetness and color
- 1 onion – diced, for aromatic depth
- 2 cloves garlic – minced, to enhance flavor
- 2 cups vegetable broth – for the liquid base
- 2 tablespoons chili powder – for a spicy kick
- 1 teaspoon cumin – to add warmth and earthiness
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smokiness
- Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado – to top your chili before serving
Baking Process
While this recipe is primarily for a slow cooker, if you’re interested in making a baked version as a twist, here’s how you can modify the cooking process while still capturing the essence of the Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Sweet Corn.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (or use fresh corn)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 cups vegetable broth (as needed)
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, avocado
Baking Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your chili bakes evenly.
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Prepare Your Baking Dish: Choose a large, deep baking dish or a Dutch oven for baking. If it’s not non-stick, you might want to grease the bottom with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step will enhance the flavors of your chili.
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Combine Ingredients: In your baking dish, stir together the sautéed vegetables, pumpkin puree, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
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Adjust Consistency: Depending on how thick you want your chili, add vegetable broth as needed. Start with 1 cup and adjust to your desired consistency.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to retain moisture and creates a steaming effect, which is vital for cooking the chili through. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
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Uncover and Stir: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil, stir the chili, and allow it to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered. This will allow some of the liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors.
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Serve: Once baked, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve your pumpkin chili hot, garnished with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or avocado.
Final Note:
Baking your pumpkin chili allows for a different texture and depth of flavor, perfect for those cozy nights. Enjoy this comforting dish straight from the oven with some crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal!
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Sweet Corn is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
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Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is the perfect complement to the chili. Its sweetness and crumbly texture balance the spiciness of the dish beautifully.
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Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the spiced pumpkin.
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Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. As it melts, it creates a creamy topping that enhances the overall flavor.
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish your chili with fresh cilantro, parsley, or even green onions for a burst of color and freshness. They add a vibrant touch and enhance the dish’s aroma.
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Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds a luxurious creaminess and healthy fats. It’s an excellent choice for a topping that will take your chili to the next level.
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Tortilla Chips: Serve the chili with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. You can also crush them on top for an enjoyable crunch.
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Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling option, serve your chili over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. This adds heartiness and makes it a complete meal.
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Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top before serving adds a zesty kick that brightens the flavors of the chili.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little heat, pickled jalapeños make a fantastic topping. Their tanginess adds complexity and extra spice to your bowl.
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Salad: Pair your chili with a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette can help cleanse your palate between bites.
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can customize your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Sweet Corn to suit your taste and impress your guests! Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili with Sweet Corn is the perfect dish for those chilly fall days when you crave something hearty yet comforting. The combination of spices, pumpkin puree, and sweet corn creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, making it a standout meal for any gathering or cozy night in. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to enjoy the aroma of this delicious chili wafting through your home all day long.
With the added nutritional benefits of pumpkin and beans, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste—whether you prefer adding extra spice or tossing in some additional vegetables, the possibilities are endless!
So next time you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying recipe, give this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili a try. Serve it warm with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro, and enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of sharing a bowl with loved ones. Happy cooking!
