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Crockpot Turkey and Pumpkin Stew

This slow-cooked stew combines tender chunks of turkey with sweet pumpkin, simmered together to create a velvety, hearty dish. The pumpkin melts into the broth, adding natural sweetness and a smooth texture, while the turkey remains juicy and flavorful, resulting in a comforting, rustic meal with rich aromas.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds turkey breast or thighs, boneless, cubed preferably skinless
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree or fresh pumpkin cooked and mashed
  • 1 cup chicken broth or turkey broth
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • Optional olive oil for searing

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Begin by dicing the onion into small, even pieces; this helps it cook quickly and evenly. Set aside.
  2. If using raw turkey, season the cubed pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the turkey until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. This quick sear adds depth of flavor.
  3. Transfer the seared turkey into the Crockpot and add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the pumpkin puree and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine everything.
  4. Set the Crockpot to low and cover it with the lid. Let the stew simmer for about 6 hours until the turkey is tender and the pumpkin has melded into a smooth, velvety broth.
  5. Once cooked, give the stew a gentle stir to distribute the flavors evenly. If you desire a thicker consistency, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate slightly.
  6. Taste the stew and adjust seasonings if needed, adding a touch more salt, pepper, or cinnamon for extra warmth. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute turkey with hearty vegetables like carrots and chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.