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Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili

Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Chili recipe

Pumpkin chili traces its roots to American home cooking, where pumpkin puree became a beloved addition to soups and stews. The Pioneer Woman’s version celebrates the harvest season by combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with bold chili spices. The result is a flavorful, protein-rich dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef (1½ lbs, lean)

  • Olive oil (1 tbsp)

  • Onion (1 large, chopped)

  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

  • Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz)

  • Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz)

  • Pumpkin puree (1 cup)

  • Black beans (1 can, drained)

  • Kidney beans (1 can, drained)

  • Beef broth (2 cups)

  • Chili powder (2 tbsp)

  • Ground cumin (1 tsp)

  • Smoked paprika (1 tsp)

  • Salt (1 tsp)

  • Black pepper (½ tsp)

  • Cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the beef

Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add spices and pumpkin

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in the pumpkin puree until evenly combined.

Step 4: Combine liquids and beans

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, black beans, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Serve warm with cornbread or crusty bread.