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Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili

Bowl of Comforting Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili

This Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili is a hearty and healthy dish perfect for a chilly evening. Combining sweet butternut squash with lean ground turkey and warming spices, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in butternut squash, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the butternut squash is tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.