Autumn calls for comfort food that warms the soul, and nothing fits the bill better than this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe. Imagine walking in after a crisp fall day to the smell of smoky chili mingling with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. Every spoonful brings a balance of savory beans, tender vegetables, and fragrant spices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. This recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience designed for busy schedules, chilly evenings, and anyone craving a cozy, homemade feast.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned home chef, this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe delivers flavor, simplicity, and a healthy twist that your family will rave about.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The pumpkin adds a natural sweetness that complements smoky chili spices perfectly.
Time-Saving & Easy: Toss all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work—perfect for busy weekdays.
Healthy & Filling: Packed with fiber-rich beans, pumpkin, and spices with minimal added fat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like canned pumpkin and beans for a cost-effective meal.
Customizable Heat: Adjust chili powder or add cayenne for your preferred spice level.
Freezer-Friendly: Makes a big batch that freezes beautifully for later.
Perfect for Entertaining: Serve it at gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
One-Pot Cleanup: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor—your slow cooker does the magic.
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
½ white onion, diced
3 (15 oz) cans chili beans
1 (15 oz) can pure canned pumpkin puree
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Garnish and Serving
Freshly minced parsley (for garnish)
Baguette slices (optional, for serving)
Tips & Substitutions:
Use red kidney beans or pinto beans if preferred.
Swap pumpkin puree for butternut squash puree for a subtle variation.
Adjust spices for a smoky, spicy, or sweeter chili.
Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced onion, chili beans, pumpkin puree, black beans, tomato paste, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and pumpkin pie spice into the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
Food Science Insight: Mixing ingredients evenly ensures that flavors meld uniformly during the slow-cooking process. The natural sugars in pumpkin caramelize slightly, enhancing depth of flavor.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
Sensory Tip: You’ll know it’s ready when the chili thickens slightly, beans are tender, and aroma fills your kitchen.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly minced parsley and serve hot with baguette slices for a comforting, complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe
H3 – How do I make chili without it being watery?
Cooking on low heat allows liquids to reduce gradually. Use less canned liquid or add tomato paste to thicken naturally.
H3 – Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Roast, peel, and puree fresh pumpkin before adding. It will provide richer, earthier flavor but may increase cooking time slightly.
H3 – Can I make this recipe with meat?
Absolutely. Add browned ground turkey, chicken, or beef before slow cooking for a protein-packed variation.
H3 – How do I reheat leftovers without losing flavor?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent drying out the pumpkin.
Best Ways to Serve
Over rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl.
Topped with shredded cheese or avocado for extra richness.
Pair with cornbread, muffins, or your favorite baguette slices.
Great for meal prep—portion into mason jars for grab-and-go lunches.
Crosslink: Check out our Crockpot Fall Harvest Pumpkin Chili for a variation with extra vegetables and spices.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 9 g
Sugars: 5 g
Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Nutrition Tip: Beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, while pumpkin adds vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and a creamy texture without added fat.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in a slow cooker on low to preserve texture.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Q: Can I make this chili spicy?
Yes, increase chili powder or add cayenne pepper. You can also include diced jalapeños or chipotle for a smoky kick.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. Keep it bean and pumpkin-based or swap meat with plant-based alternatives like textured vegetable protein.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes! Combine ingredients in a large pot, simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Q: What’s the texture of the chili like?
Smooth pumpkin puree creates a creamy base while beans provide bite, making a hearty yet silky consistency.
Q: How can I enhance flavor without extra salt?
Add smoked paprika, roasted red peppers, or a splash of apple cider vinegar to deepen flavor without increasing sodium.
Variations
Creamy Pumpkin Turkey Chili: Add ground turkey and top with Greek yogurt for a rich variation.
Smoky Pumpkin Bean Chili: Include smoked paprika and chipotle for bold, smoky flavor.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Beef Chili: Use browned ground beef for a classic comfort food twist.
Crockpot Fall Harvest Pumpkin Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and corn for a vegetable-packed version.
Savory Pumpkin Chili Stew: Reduce spices and increase beans for a stew-like texture.
Conclusion
Fall, family dinners, and cozy evenings meet their match with this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili Recipe. Its comforting flavors, easy preparation, and nutritional goodness make it an autumn favorite. Whether for meal prep, entertaining, or simply warming your soul on a chilly day, this chili hits every note of flavor and satisfaction.