Cozy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe

Crafting a hearty butternut squash chili can spark unexpected culinary magic in your kitchen.

Robust flavors merge seamlessly with comforting textures in this delightful seasonal dish.

Cold evenings call for warm, nourishing meals that comfort and satisfy deeply.

Lean protein and sweet squash create a perfect balance of nutrition and taste.

Curious cooks appreciate how simple ingredients can blend into something extraordinary.

Minimal effort yields maximum flavor, making this recipe a weeknight champion.

Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly delicious this chili becomes with just a few smart techniques.

Why Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Is Satisfying

• Packed with butternut squash, this chili delivers incredible vitamins, fiber, and nutrients that make every bite super healthy and delicious.
• Requires just one pot and under an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for busy families needing fast, satisfying dinners without complex cooking techniques.
• Swap between turkey and beef, adjust spice levels, and add diverse toppings like cheese or avocado, creating a flexible recipe that adapts to different tastes and preferences.
• Transforms traditional chili by introducing roasted butternut squash, adding natural sweetness and creamy texture that elevates this classic comfort dish to a gourmet experience.

What You’ll Need for Butternut Squash Chili

• Ground Turkey, Ground Beef: Hearty protein base that adds richness and substance to the chili, with beef offering a deeper flavor and turkey providing a leaner option.

• Butternut Squash: Sweet, creamy vegetable that adds depth and natural sweetness, best when fresh and firm with a deep orange color.
• Onion: Provides foundational savory flavor and aromatic base for the chili.
• Garlic: Intense flavor enhancer that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
• Bell Pepper: Adds color, sweetness, and crisp texture to the chili.

• Kidney Beans, Black Beans: Protein-rich legumes that contribute texture and earthy flavor, canned beans work well for convenience.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture, acidity, and creates the chili's base sauce.

• Chili Powder: Provides classic chili warmth and depth.
• Cumin: Adds earthy, smoky undertones characteristic of traditional chili.
• Paprika: Contributes mild sweetness and rich color.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional ingredient for adding heat and spiciness.

• Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base and additional flavor complexity.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall dish flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding subtle richness.

Instructions for This Comforting Chili Dish

Step 1: Prepare Roasted Squash

Peel and dice butternut squash into small cubes. Spread on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

• Ground turkey
• Ground beef

Cook until meat is completely browned, breaking into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Chopped bell peppers

Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Build Chili Base

• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper

• Diced tomatoes
• Kidney beans
• Black beans
• Chicken broth

Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Roasted Squash

Fold roasted butternut squash into the chili. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to blend and chili to thicken.

Step 6: Season and Taste

Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Taste and modify as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

Tips to Balance Sweet and Savory in Butternut Squash Chili

• Roast Squash for Sweetness: Caramelize butternut squash in the oven before adding to chili to intensify its natural sugars and create deeper flavor profiles.
• Customize Protein Choice: Swap between ground turkey and beef based on dietary preferences or nutritional needs without compromising the recipe's overall taste and texture.
• Control Spice Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper and chili powder quantities to create mild, medium, or hot versions that suit individual heat tolerances.
• Enhance Texture Balance: Let chili simmer longer to break down ingredients and create a thicker, more cohesive consistency that blends meat, beans, and vegetables seamlessly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare chili in advance and store in refrigerator for 35 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify over time for even more delicious results.

How to Store and Reheat Butternut Chili with No Fuss

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and keep flavors fresh. Refrigerated chili stays good for 3-4 days.
• Pour cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen chili maintains quality for up to 4 months.
• Transfer chili to a pot and warm over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili seems too thick.
• Place chili in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

Best Pairings for Butternut Squash Chili

• The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread perfectly balances the spicy, hearty chili. Bake a warm, golden cornbread that soaks up the rich flavors and provides a comforting contrast.
• Choose a malty amber ale that echoes the roasted butternut squash's caramelized notes. The beer's subtle sweetness and hoppy undertones will enhance the chili's depth and spiciness.
• Dollop cool, creamy Greek yogurt on top to cut through the chili's heat. Its tanginess brightens the dish and adds a luxurious, smooth texture that complements the robust flavors.
• Mix a refreshing lime margarita to cleanse the palate between bites. The citrusy, bright cocktail provides a sharp contrast to the rich, warming chili and helps balance the spices.

Chili Variations Worth Trying

Vegetarian Bean Swap: Replace ground turkey or beef with extra firm tofu, tempeh, or additional beans like pinto or cannellini for a plant-based protein boost. Perfect for vegetarians seeking hearty chili alternatives.

Keto-Friendly Low-Carb Version: Substitute butternut squash with lower-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. Use cauliflower rice as a base and increase ground meat proportion to maintain ketogenic macronutrient ratios.

Spicy Southwest Remix: Enhance heat by adding diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or smoked paprika. Include fresh corn kernels and swap kidney beans for black beans to create a southwestern-style chili experience.

Slow Cooker Adaptation: Transfer all ingredients except roasted squash into a slow cooker after initial sautéing. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding roasted butternut squash during the last hour of cooking for optimal texture and flavor integration.

Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey Or Beef Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Warming butternut squash chili brings hearty Mexican-inspired comfort to winter dinners. Packed with rich ground meat, sweet squash, and bold spices, this one-pot meal promises delicious satisfaction for hungry families.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground turkey or ground beef

Vegetables:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pantry and Canned Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups (473 milliliters) chicken or vegetable broth

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil and Optional Garnishes:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
• Shredded cheese (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Peel and dice the butternut squash into uniform cubes, ensuring even cooking and caramelization during roasting at 400F for approximately 20 minutes until tender and golden-edged.
2. Place a large pot over medium heat, drizzle with olive oil, and introduce ground turkey or beef, breaking it into fine crumbles while browning evenly.
3. Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the meat, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic essence.
4. Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper into the pot, stirring to coat the meat and vegetables with intense spice profiles.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth, creating a robust base that will develop complex flavor layers during simmering.
6. Gently fold the roasted butternut squash cubes into the simmering chili, allowing the ingredients to integrate and develop a harmonious taste for 25-30 minutes.
7. Taste and refine the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to personal preference and flavor balance.
8. Serve the chili in warm bowls, garnishing with optional toppings like shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, creamy avocado slices, or fresh cilantro sprigs.

Notes

• Roast squash beforehand to intensify its natural sweetness and caramelize edges for deeper flavor profile.
• Opt for lean ground turkey to reduce overall fat content while maintaining protein-rich meal structure.
• Experiment with spice levels by gradually adding cayenne pepper, allowing personalized heat intensity without overwhelming other ingredients.
• Consider making vegetarian version by substituting meat with plant-based protein like lentils or extra firm tofu for diverse dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg