There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a deeply comforting dish without fuss. This Slow Cooker Fall Chili with Pumpkin feels like a warm hug from the season itself, especially as the air turns crisp. The slow cooker ensures each bite is bursting with rich, layered flavors while you go about your day.
I love how this recipe elevates the humble pumpkin from holiday decor to a savory star. It’s perfect for busy autumn weekends when you want something nourishing without the oven-timer stress. The aroma alone—cumin, smoky chiles, and sweet pumpkin—cannot be beat.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It mixes seasonal nostalgia with a modern twist in every spoonful.
- So easy to prep, making weeknights feel a little more celebrated.
- The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness contrasted by spicy, savory notes.
- Comfort food that’s both satisfying and healthful.
- Reminds me of autumn festivals, but in a cozy bowl at home.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to drain the beans? Fret not, rinse them to remove excess salt.
- DUMPED too much pumpkin? Just stir in some broth to loosen the consistency.
- OVER‑TORCHED the chili at the end? Add a splash of broth to cool it down.
- FORGOT to add spices early? Stir them in during the last 30 minutes for maximum aroma.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When it’s too thick, splash in a little hot water or broth to loosen.
- Patch blandness with a pinch more chili powder or smoked paprika.
- Shield your chili from burning by stirring every hour.
- If the beans seem dull, add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- When in doubt, simmer uncovered for five minutes to intensify flavors—smells heavenly.
This Slow Cooker Fall Chili with Pumpkin has become a seasonal staple in my kitchen. It’s a simple yet soulful dish that captures the essence of autumn’s cozy charm. As the days grow shorter, this chili offers a moment of warmth and comfort that’s hard to beat.
Whether serving a family gathering or a quiet evening alone, it brings a satisfying layer of nostalgia and warmth. The blend of spices and the smooth pumpkin create a textured, fragrant experience. It’s the kind of meal that makes you appreciate the little joys of fall.
Slow Cooker Fall Pumpkin Chili
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups canned beans (black or kidney) rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked pumpkin or pumpkin puree preferably fresh or canned
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey optional for added protein
- 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic, then set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until the edges are crispy and it’s cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker once done.
- Add a splash of oil to the skillet if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This helps build aroma and flavor for the chili.
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker, then add the cooked ground meat, beans, diced tomatoes, pumpkin, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and set the slow cooker to low. Let it cook for about 4 hours, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. The aroma will start to develop and the mixture will thicken slightly.
- After cooking, open the lid and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, stir in a little more broth to loosen it. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
Nutrition
As the seasons shift, this chili reminds us of how good simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s perfect for those busy days when comfort food needs to be both quick and memorable. Plus, the slow-cooker means you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a ready-made meal.
Embracing fall’s bounty with dishes like this keeps meal times rooted in tradition while also feeling fresh. The aroma alone can turn any kitchen into a seasonal retreat. In the end, it’s these small moments of cozy, flavorful comfort that make autumn so inviting.
