This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili with Black Beans is the quintessential hearty, delicious, and healthy Fall comfort food. Crafted with lean ground turkey, it’s a high-protein, satisfying meal that brings warmth and nutrition to your table.
There’s nothing quite like chili season, and this butternut squash and black bean chili perfectly captures the cozy essence of autumn in every spoonful. It’s not just a comforting meal; it’s also a wonderfully delicious way to incorporate the seasonal goodness of butternut squash into your diet. This vibrant root vegetable adds a touch of natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and a wealth of nutrients to an already flavorful dish.
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, celebrated for its rich content of vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and healthy skin. Beyond its health benefits, it infuses the chili with a distinctive autumnal flavor that truly sets this recipe apart. If you’re a fan of butternut squash and crave more seasonal delights, be sure to explore my Fall Harvest Salad or my comforting Butternut Squash and Chicken Soup. Prepare to fall in love with this nutritious and flavorful chili!
Table of Contents
- Why You Will Love This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili
- Essential Recipe Ingredients
- Additions and Substitutions for Your Chili
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Expert Tips for the Perfect Chili
- How to Serve This Hearty Chili
- How to Store: Make Ahead & Freeze
- Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
- Other Chili Recipes You’ll Love: Explore More!
- Black Bean Butternut Squash Turkey Chili Recipe Card
Why You Will Love This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili
This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili isn’t just another meal; it’s a wholesome experience designed to nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a household favorite:
- A Delicious Way to Enjoy Butternut Squash: If you’re looking for creative ways to incorporate more vegetables, this chili is it! Butternut squash is incredibly versatile and shines in this recipe, offering a natural sweetness and creamy texture that balances the savory spices. It’s also packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, all powerful antioxidants that support overall health and immunity.
- Power-Packed with Protein: Made with ground turkey, this chili is exceptionally high in lean protein, with one serving boasting a remarkable 29 grams. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, and it helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, making this an ideal meal for active lifestyles or anyone looking for a hearty, sustained energy boost.
- Wholesome and Flavorful: Every ingredient in this chili is carefully chosen for both its health benefits and its contribution to a rich, complex flavor profile. From fresh vegetables to aromatic spices, you can be confident you’re enjoying a meal that is as good for you as it tastes. It’s comfort food without the guilt!
- Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: This chili strikes the perfect balance of flavors – it’s savory, subtly sweet from the squash, and mildly spiced. This makes it a hit with both children and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will ask for seconds. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, game nights, or entertaining guests.
Essential Recipe Ingredients
Crafting this flavorful Butternut Squash Turkey Chili begins with a selection of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating its rich taste and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Onion: Freshly diced onion, or even shallots, forms the aromatic base of this chili, providing a sweet and savory depth.
- Garlic: Minced garlic cloves infuse the meat and sauce with an indispensable pungent and savory flavor, elevating the entire dish.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil, or a neutral oil like avocado oil, is used for sautéing the aromatics and browning the turkey.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and optional kick. Adjust the amount to control the heat level.
- Bell Pepper: Choose red, orange, or yellow bell peppers for their sweetness and vibrant color, contributing to both flavor and visual appeal.
- Ground Turkey: I typically use regular ground turkey for a richer flavor, but lean ground turkey works equally well if you prefer a lower-fat option. It’s an excellent source of lean protein.
- Paprika: Ground paprika contributes a beautiful color and a warm, slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of good chili.
- Chili Powder: This blend of spices is key to the traditional chili flavor. Adjust the quantity to your preferred level of warmth and spice.
- Oregano: Whether fresh or dried, oregano adds an earthy, aromatic note that is classic in chili recipes.
- Cinnamon: A surprising but essential addition, cinnamon brings a delicate, warm, and autumnal sweetness that beautifully complements the butternut squash and other spices, adding depth.
- Cumin: An earthy and distinct spice, cumin is a cornerstone of any authentic chili recipe, providing a deep, robust flavor.
- Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste provides a concentrated burst of rich tomato flavor and helps to thicken the chili.
- Strained Tomatoes and Chopped Tomatoes: These create the luscious, tangy, and robust tomato base for the chili, ensuring a rich consistency.
- Butternut Squash: You can opt for a whole butternut squash, peeled and cubed, or save time by using pre-cut butternut squash from the grocery store. Cut into ¾-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Time-Saving Tip: Pre-cut butternut squash bags are a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights, though fresh-cut offers maximum flavor.
- Black Beans and Kidney Beans: A combination of black beans and kidney beans provides a variety of textures and hearty goodness, making the chili truly satisfying and rich in fiber and protein.
See the full recipe card below for precise measurements and a complete list of ingredients.
Additions and Substitutions for Your Chili
One of the best things about chili is its versatility! Feel free to customize this Butternut Squash Turkey Chili to suit your tastes or what you have on hand:
- Onion and Garlic Alternatives: If you’re short on fresh ingredients or prefer a quicker prep, you can easily substitute fresh onion and garlic with about 1 teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder. Add these directly to the ground turkey along with the other spices.
- Bell Pepper Variety: While red, orange, or yellow bell peppers offer sweetness, a green bell pepper can be used for a slightly more pungent and traditional chili flavor.
- Bean Variations: Experiment with different types of beans! Instead of black beans or kidney beans, great northern beans, cannellini beans, or pinto beans would all be delicious additions, adding their own unique textures and flavors.
- Spice Level Adjustment: Love heat? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or chili powder. For a milder chili, reduce them. A dash of cayenne pepper can also add a fiery kick.
- Different Proteins: While ground turkey is lean and flavorful, you can easily swap it for other ground meats such as ground beef, ground bison, or even ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a Slow Cooker Meal: This recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker! After browning the ground turkey and sautéing the aromatics (Step 1 and 2), transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 7 hours. For a dedicated slow cooker recipe, try my High-Protein Slow Cooker Turkey Chili!
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra nutrition and texture. Add them with the butternut squash so they cook through properly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a rich and satisfying Butternut Squash Turkey Chili that’s perfect for any occasion:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften slightly. (Note: If using onion and garlic powder, skip this sauté step for them and add them with the ground turkey in Step 2).
Step 2: Brown the Turkey and Add Spices. Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot. Add the ground turkey to the empty side, breaking it up with a spatula. Season the turkey with tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Mix the spices well with the turkey as it cooks. Stir everything together and continue to cook until the ground turkey is thoroughly browned and no longer pink.
Step 3: Ensure Thorough Browning. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally and breaking up any large pieces of turkey, until the meat is fully browned and cooked through. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor in your chili.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients. Now it’s time to bring the chili together! Add the strained tomatoes, chopped tomatoes, water, black beans, kidney beans, and the cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection. Bring the chili mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low-medium, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the butternut squash becomes tender but not mushy. The exact cooking time for the squash will depend on the size of your cubes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Once the butternut squash is tender and the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Ladle the hot chili into bowls and get creative with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately for a truly comforting meal.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chili
Achieving the perfect chili is easy with a few insider tips. Here’s how to ensure your Butternut Squash Turkey Chili turns out exceptionally delicious every time:
- Check Butternut Squash Tenderness: To determine if your butternut squash is perfectly cooked, simply pierce a cube with a knife or fork. It should be tender enough to yield easily but still hold its shape, avoiding a mushy texture. Consistency is key!
- Using Powdered Aromatics: If you opt for onion powder and garlic powder instead of fresh, add approximately 1 teaspoon of each directly to the ground turkey along with the other spices in Step 2. This ensures their flavors are fully integrated into the meat as it browns, creating a cohesive taste.
- Browning the Meat is Key: Don’t rush the browning process for the ground turkey. Allowing it to develop a nice, deep brown color creates a richer, more complex flavor profile for the entire chili. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can steam the meat instead of browning it.
- Adjust Seasoning as You Go: Taste your chili throughout the cooking process, especially after the initial simmer. Adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Simmer for Flavor Development: While 25-30 minutes is a good guideline, a longer, slow simmer (up to an hour) can deepen the flavors even further. Just keep an eye on the liquid level and add a little more water or broth if it gets too thick.
- Enhance Spice Flavors: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the dry spices (paprika, cumin, chili powder) in the pot for about 30 seconds before adding the ground turkey. This helps to release their aromatic oils.
- Cube Squash Evenly: Cut your butternut squash into uniform ¾-inch cubes. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, resulting in a consistent texture throughout the chili.
How to Serve This Hearty Chili
This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some of our favorite ideas to elevate your chili experience:
(1) Load Up on Delicious Toppings!
Toppings are essential for customizing your chili and adding fresh textures and flavors. Get creative and pile on your favorites:
- Avocado: Diced or sliced avocado adds a creamy, rich texture and a healthy dose of good fats, balancing the warmth of the chili.
- Plantain Chips: For a unique crunch and a hint of sweet-savory flavor, crushed plantain chips make an excellent alternative to traditional tortilla chips.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic chili topping, melting beautifully into the warm stew. For a dairy-free option, sprinkle on some vegan shredded cheese.
- Diced Apples: A surprising but delightful addition! Finely diced apples offer a crisp texture and a sweet-tart contrast that highlights the autumnal flavors of the butternut squash.
- Hot Sauce: If you love extra heat, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can kick things up a notch.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt provides a cool, tangy counterpoint to the rich spices, adding a creamy indulgence. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan sour cream substitute.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley can brighten up the flavors with their vibrant, herbaceous notes.
- Red Onion: Finely diced red onion offers a sharp, fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the chili.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving adds a zesty brightness that enhances all the flavors.
(2) Use the Chili as a Versatile Topping.
This butternut squash and black bean chili is so hearty and flavorful that it doubles as an excellent topping for other dishes. Transform your meals with these ideas:
- Baked Potatoes: Spoon a generous helping of chili over a fluffy baked potato for a complete and satisfying meal. Top with cheese and sour cream for extra decadence.
- Scrambled Eggs or Omelets: Add a spoonful or two of chili to your morning scrambled eggs or fold it into an omelet for a protein-packed and flavorful breakfast or brunch.
- Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with cheese, then bake until bubbly for an epic chili nacho platter. Add your favorite fresh toppings afterwards.
- Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. I particularly love adding it to rice along with some extra sautéed bell peppers for a delicious “stuffed peppers” inspired meal without the fuss of actual stuffed peppers.
- Hot Dogs or Burgers: Use it as a gourmet topping for hot dogs or sliders at your next barbecue.
- Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta for a unique chili mac experience.
How to Store: Make Ahead & Freeze
This Butternut Squash Turkey Chili is fantastic for meal prepping and freezes beautifully, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance. Here’s how to store it properly:
- To Store in the Refrigerator: Allow the chili to cool completely to room temperature (within two hours of cooking). Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. This makes it perfect for delicious leftovers throughout the week.
- To Freeze for Longer Storage: Once the chili has cooled, spoon it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking. Freezing individual portions is a great way to have quick, healthy meals on hand.
- To Reheat:
- From Refrigerator: Reheat individual servings in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until simmering gently.
- From Frozen: For best results, transfer the frozen chili to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat it using the microwave or stovetop methods described above. If reheating directly from frozen, you can do so on the stovetop over very low heat, stirring occasionally and breaking up chunks as it thaws, until heated through. This might take longer.
Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Absolutely! While ground turkey offers a lean and flavorful base, this chili is incredibly adaptable. You can easily substitute it with ground beef, ground bison, or even ground chicken. Any type of ground meat of your choice will work wonderfully, just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if needed to ensure it’s fully browned.
Yes, this recipe is naturally both gluten-free and dairy-free! All the ingredients used in the base chili are free from gluten and dairy. Just be mindful of your toppings if you need to maintain these dietary restrictions (e.g., use vegan cheese or dairy-free sour cream alternatives).
No, this particular recipe, as written with canned beans, is not considered Paleo, as legumes are typically excluded from a strict Paleo diet. However, you can easily modify it to be Paleo-friendly by omitting the black beans and kidney beans. To maintain the heartiness and texture, I would suggest increasing the amount of butternut squash or adding other compliant vegetables like diced sweet potatoes or zucchini.
Yes, this chili is perfect for a slow cooker! To convert, follow the recipe exactly for Step 1 (sautéing aromatics) and Step 2 (browning ground turkey with spices) in a separate pan on the stovetop. Once the turkey is browned, transfer it and the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Then, add all the remaining ingredients (tomatoes, water, beans, butternut squash, and remaining chili powder) to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 7 hours, or until the butternut squash is tender and the flavors have melded.
You’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (at least 5-quart capacity) for simmering, a cutting board, a sharp knife for dicing vegetables, and a spatula for stirring. A measuring cup and spoons are also essential for accurate ingredient quantities.
Other Chili Recipes You’ll Love: Explore More!
If you’re a chili enthusiast like us, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other fantastic chili recipes. Each offers a unique twist on this beloved comfort food:
Apple Sage Turkey Chili (Gluten-Free)
Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken and Vegetable Chili
Instant Pot Beef and Sweet Potato Chili (Whole30, Paleo)
Pumpkin Chili
Coffee and Cocoa Powder Chili without Beans
Did you try this recipe? Please leave me a ⭐ review below! Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
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Black Bean Butternut Squash Turkey Chili
Dominique
8 people
10
45
55
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Ingredients
- 1/2 of an onion, diced (or 1 tsp dried onion powder)
- 4 cloves garlic, diced (or 1 tsp dried garlic powder)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, orange, or yellow)
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 3 teaspoons chili powder, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cups strained tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 cups diced butternut squash, cut into ¾ inch cubes
- 2 14 ounce cans of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 14 ounce can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Instructions
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Add diced garlic and onion to a large pot with 1 Tablespoon olive oil and heat over medium heat. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the red pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes. (Note: If you are using onion powder and garlic powder, add the powders to the ground turkey meat in the next step).
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Then add the ground turkey to the pan, along with the tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, cinnamon and 1 tsp chili powder. Break up the meat into smaller pieces using a spatula and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
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Add the strained and chopped tomatoes, water, rinsed and drained beans, cubed butternut squash, and the remaining 2 tsp of chili powder. Mix well and bring the chili to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer over low-medium heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender but not too mushy. (The cooking time will depend on how large you cut the squash).
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Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Notes
- Instead of fresh onion and garlic, you can use about 1 teaspoon of onion powder and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add these with the ground turkey.
- You can use green bell pepper instead of red bell pepper for a different flavor profile.
- Instead of black beans or kidney beans, you can use other varieties such as white northern beans, cannellini beans, or pinto beans.
- For a slow cooker version, brown the turkey and sauté aromatics on the stove, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 5 hours or low for 7 hours.
Nutrition
Calories: 345 kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 29g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Cholesterol: 31mg
Sodium: 515mg
Potassium: 1316mg
Fiber: 16g
Sugar: 7g
Vitamin A: 6654 IU
Vitamin C: 43mg
Calcium: 123mg
Iron: 6mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Main Course
American
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