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Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans

crockpot pumpkin chili with black beans - featured image

This Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans is a hearty, comforting fall meal made with pantry staples. The slow cooker does all the work, and the pumpkin adds a velvety richness that makes this chili unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the crockpot. Stir until the pumpkin is evenly distributed.
  4. Add the drained and rinsed black beans and vegetable broth. Stir again.
  5. Season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are fully incorporated.
  6. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

Don’t open the lid to stir during the first 4 hours of cooking to avoid heat loss. For a thicker chili, mash some black beans against the side of the crockpot or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This chili tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chili, crockpot chili, black bean chili, slow cooker chili, vegetarian chili, fall chili, easy chili recipe