If you’re craving a hearty, cozy meal that combines a burst of flavors with wholesome ingredients, this Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It embraces the warmth of classic chili but adds a wonderfully subtle sweetness and creamy texture from the butternut squash, making every spoonful comforting and satisfying. Whether you choose turkey or beef, the mix of spices, beans, and tender squash will quickly become a family favorite for any chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this chili both flavorful and nutritious. Each item plays a key role in balancing taste, texture, and that inviting color that makes this chili as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Olive oil: A wonderful base for sautéing, adding subtle richness and helping to develop flavor.
- Ground turkey or beef: Your protein of choice, providing a meaty, satisfying heart to the dish.
- Onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when softened gently in the pot.
- Garlic, minced: Adds an irresistible aromatic punch to build the chili’s flavor profile.
- Butternut squash, peeled and cubed: The star ingredient that lends a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Infuse the chili with tangy juiciness and vibrant color.
- Kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Add bulk and a lovely richness that complements the meat.
- Black beans, drained and rinsed: Offer a smooth, earthy texture and more protein.
- Chili powder: Provides warmth and classic chili spice complexity.
- Cumin: Introduces a smoky, earthy note that elevates the chili’s flavor.
- Smoked paprika: A hint of smokiness that rounds out the spices beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Creates a rich base and keeps the chili perfectly saucy.
- Corn kernels (optional): Adds pop and sweetness if you want a little extra texture.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Offers fresh, bright herbal notes for garnish and contrast.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Build Flavor
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your ground turkey or beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart as it sizzles. This step is crucial because it locks in savory richness and creates those tasty browned bits that add depth to your chili.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic for Aromatic Base
Once the meat looks perfect, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let these soften for about 3 to 4 minutes, filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma. The onions become tender and sweet while the garlic releases its fragrant oils, creating the perfect foundation for your chili.
Step 3: Add Squash, Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Next comes the magic of our Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe: add in the cubed butternut squash, canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the vibrant colors and textures start to mingle and the spices begin to release their flavors into the mix.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the whole pot to a simmer. Cover and let it cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the butternut squash to soften perfectly while the flavors fully meld, resulting in a beautifully thick, hearty chili that’s bursting with taste.
Step 5: Finish with Corn Kernels for Sweet Crunch (Optional)
If you like a little extra sweetness and texture, stir in half a cup of corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This small addition brightens the chili and adds a delightful contrast to the creamy squash and tender beans.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Garnish
Once your chili is ready, ladle it into bowls while it’s hot and garnish with fresh cilantro if you fancy. This final touch adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every bite, making your Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes elevate this chili from simple to sensational. Fresh cilantro adds brightness, while a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can create luscious creaminess. You might also love chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime to balance the richness with a little zing.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, which brings a buttery crunch that complements the soft chili perfectly. Crunchy tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas are also fantastic for dipping and scooping. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a refreshing companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve your chili in mini pumpkin bowls during fall gatherings or family dinners. Layering it atop a baked sweet potato or stuffing it into a bell pepper creates a fun, festive meal that’s both hearty and pleasing to the eye. These ideas turn your Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe into a true crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals throughout your week.
Freezing
You can freeze this chili to enjoy months later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in short intervals, stirring between, to preserve all the wonderful flavors and textures of your Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the turkey or beef and add an extra cup of beans or some hearty mushrooms for texture. Using vegetable broth will keep it fully vegetarian and just as delicious.
Can I substitute the butternut squash with another vegetable?
Yes, sweet potatoes make an excellent substitute, offering similar sweetness and creaminess. Pumpkin or even carrots can also work, but they may slightly change the chili’s texture and flavor.
How spicy is this chili?
This recipe offers a moderate warmth thanks to the chili powder and smoked paprika, but feel free to adjust the spices to your heat preference. Adding fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne can up the spice level if you like it hotter.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey or beef?
Definitely! Ground chicken works well as a lean protein alternative. Just follow the same cooking steps for browning and simmering, and your chili will turn out just as tasty.
What are some good toppings for this chili?
Classic toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions are perfect. You can also try avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you whip up this Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food for cold nights and busy weeknights alike. It’s simple to make, deliciously nourishing, and just bursting with flavors that feel like a warm hug. So grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’re going to love every single spoonful.
Print
Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make chili featuring wholesome butternut squash combined with flavorful ground turkey or beef, beans, and aromatic spices. This hearty dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, delivering a balance of protein, fiber, and vegetables with rich, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
Vegetables & Legumes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked while breaking the meat apart with a spoon.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and releases a fragrant aroma.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer the Chili: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the butternut squash is tender and the chili thickens slightly.
- Add Corn: If using, stir in corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking to add extra sweetness and texture.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap ground turkey with ground beef depending on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or extra chili powder for more heat.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
