White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Name: White Bean Pumpkin Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Avocado oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 stalks celery (finely chopped); 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped); 3 small carrots (finely chopped); 1½ tablespoon smoked paprika; 1/2 tablespoon red chili paste (or 1 tbsp of chili powder); 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken, turkey, or beef; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (or 1 tablespoon dried); 15 oz unsweetened pumpkin purée (one can); ¼ cup peanut butter; 30 oz cannellini beans (two cans, drained); 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh thyme, chopped avocado, green onions, shredded cheese (for garnish); 1 tbsp each of cumin powder, onion powder, and garlic powder

Published: October 11, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious chili simmering in no time.
Flavor-packed: The combination of smoked paprika and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that will impress everyone at your table.
Customizable ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or protein for a personalized touch.
Perfect for meal prep: This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.
Healthy and filling: With beans and pumpkin as key ingredients, you’ll enjoy a nutritious dish that keeps you full longer.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious White Bean Pumpkin Chili, you will need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking chili evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot’s surface.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Avocado oil
– 1 onion (finely chopped)
– 2 stalks celery (finely chopped)
– 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
– 3 small carrots (finely chopped)
– 1½ tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 tablespoon red chili paste (or 1 tbsp of chili powder)
– 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken, turkey, or beef (We like to use lean ground turkey)
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 15 oz unsweetened pumpkin purée (one can)
– ¼ cup peanut butter
– 30 oz cannellini beans (two cans, drained)
– 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
– salt and pepper (to taste)
– Fresh thyme, chopped avocado, green onions, shredded cheese (for garnish)
– 1 tbsp each of cumin powder, onion powder, and garlic powder

How to Make White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Finely chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Heat the avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until softened.

Step 3: Add Spices and Meat

Stir in smoked paprika and red chili paste.
Add ground chicken (or turkey/beef) to the pot. Cook until browned.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Pumpkin

Mix in pumpkin purée, peanut butter, cannellini beans, broth, cumin powder, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh thyme, avocado slices, green onions, or shredded cheese before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of White Bean Pumpkin Chili!

How to Serve White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Serving White Bean Pumpkin Chili is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways.

With Fresh Toppings

Chopped Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to balance the chili.
Green Onions: Offers a fresh, crisp bite that enhances the overall flavor.
Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully on top for added richness and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for scooping up the chili and enjoying every last bite.
Cornbread: A slightly sweet addition that pairs well with the spiciness of the chili.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a nice contrast to the smooth chili.

As a Bowl Meal

Rice or Quinoa Base: Serving the chili over rice or quinoa adds heartiness and makes it more filling.
Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad on the side can complement the warmth of the chili.

How to Perfect White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Perfecting your White Bean Pumpkin Chili can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips.

Bold Spices: Use fresh spices like smoked paprika and cumin for deeper flavors.
Quality Beans: Opt for high-quality cannellini beans for better texture and taste.
Adjust Consistency: Add more broth if you prefer a thinner chili, or reduce it for a thicker consistency.
Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Pairing sides with your White Bean Pumpkin Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the chili’s creaminess perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs add color and nutrition to your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the chili.
Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains or veggies, these make a filling accompaniment.
Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges add comfort and pair wonderfully with spicy dishes.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your White Bean Pumpkin Chili, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

Skipping the aromatics: Not sautéing onions, garlic, and other aromatics can lead to a bland chili. Always start by cooking these ingredients to build a flavorful base.
Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the veggies too long before adding the broth, they may become mushy. Aim for a tender yet crisp texture.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting your chili as it cooks is essential. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices at various stages for a balanced flavor.
Using low-quality beans: Low-quality or old beans can affect the texture and taste of your chili. Opt for fresh, high-quality cannellini beans for the best results.
Forgetting the garnishes: Skipping garnishes like fresh thyme or avocado can make your dish less appealing. Add them just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your White Bean Pumpkin Chili in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about White Bean Pumpkin Chili.

What can I substitute for ground meat in White Bean Pumpkin Chili?

You can use plant-based meat alternatives or simply increase the quantity of beans for a vegetarian version.

Can I make White Bean Pumpkin Chili in the Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté your vegetables first, add other ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes.

How can I customize my White Bean Pumpkin Chili?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chili stores well and is perfect for meal prepping as it reheats easily throughout the week.

What are some good toppings for White Bean Pumpkin Chili?

Fresh avocado, diced green onions, or shredded cheese make great toppings that enhance flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This creamy White Bean Pumpkin Chili is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different meats or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re making it for dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try!