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Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

This Crockpot Pumpkin Chili combines roasted pumpkin with spices, beans, and vegetables cooked slowly to develop a rich, hearty texture. The pumpkin creates a silky, thick base, while the chili ingredients provide warmth and flavor, resulting in a comforting, visually appealing dish with a deep orange hue and chunky consistency.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 4 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small sugar pumpkin or acorn squash peeled, seeded, and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for roasting vegetables
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 can cannellini beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for depth
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chopped pumpkin with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with a sweet, nutty aroma.
  2. Meanwhile, chop the onion and mince the garlic. Transfer them to the slow cooker and cook on high for a few minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, or sauté in a pan over medium heat if desired for extra flavor.
  3. Add the roasted pumpkin, beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything well to combine, creating a thick, vibrant mixture.
  4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. The pumpkin will break down further, giving the dish a smooth, hearty texture.
  5. Once cooking is complete, remove the lid and stir the chili gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese, and enjoy a cozy bowl of autumn-inspired chili.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving. Roasting the pumpkin enhances its sweetness and depth, but canned pureed pumpkin can be used as a shortcut. Adjust chili powder for heat preference.