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Bowl of Slow Cooker Black Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili topped with sour cream and cilantro, served on a wooden table

Slow Cooker Black Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili

This Slow Cooker Black Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a time-saving option for a delicious weeknight dinner packed with hearty flavors. Enjoy this healthy option with protein-rich turkey and fiber-loaded black beans, perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound extra lean ground turkey (99%)
  • 1 medium white onion, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno seeded and finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon red cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or brown sugar)
  • 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes (preferably no salt added)
  • ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree (or 1 ¾ cup fresh pumpkin puree)
  • 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Optional garnishes: cilantro, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), guacamole, and cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, jalapeno, and garlic, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with your spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  5. Transfer the turkey mixture to your slow cooker.
  6. Add maple syrup, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, pumpkin puree, and black beans. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours (or on high for 2–3 hours).
  8. When ready, taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve with your favorite toppings.